The trouble here is that in many cases, Ribble's prices are less than US dealer cost. The aforementioned importers and distributors see to it that the retailers cannot be competitive.
Shimano and friends need to assess who their real friends are in the US market, and sell direct to LBSs, instead of selling direct only to the folks who are killing US retail. IMHO.
This is 100% accurate. American consumers are paying much more for bicycle stuff and reducing business at bike shops dramatically. Has gotten so $$$ significant that I no longer even go to the LBS for components, tires, even lube and other consumables. It's tough times for American retailers, something should change.
Ribble has been good to me on a regular basis, never out of stock for my orders. The free shipping offer results in about 8 day shipment to Seattle. Have not been charged on customs fees - my max purchase was about $400. They send an immediate email confirming order and another when it ships, only downside is no tracking on free shipments.