I still like RS for the various plugs, adapters, electrical tools, and components that they stock. Granted I could get better stuff for a lower price from a mail order supplier like DigiKey, Jameco or Mouser, but then I would pay shipping and wait for it to arrive.
I have to say it would never occur to me to take my bike into a store, other than a bike shop. I expect any store would tell me to get the bike out of there.
If you want to talk about a store to hate, my vote is Best Buy. They sell cheap imported crap, mark it up ridiculously, and then refuse to accept return when their crap doesn't work. I hate Best Buy (only my opinion, of course). Their customer service is the worst I ever seen.