My question is basically whether special orders help or hurt the bottom line of an LBS.

I need to get new tires for my hybrid style bike. Most LBS in the area do not typically keep that width of tire on hand at least in any variety of tread. .

I could order online or go to a box store, however I like to support the LBS that is right across the street from my apartment. However, my concern is that a special order would actually hurt the LBS by creating an additional freight or other variable expenses that eat up any profit margin.

If special orders are processed simply as a favor to the customer I figure I would save everyone some time and just purchase them somewhere else.

I wasn't sure how to ask the owner this, so I thought I'd bring it up in the forum. What do you think?