I've been mail ordering parts since the mid 80's. While I can sympathize with the shops, I can't be assed to have to put up with them.

It's very common for shops to stock pre-cut cables/housing. The markup is higher, profits are increased, etc..

I keep my bike in check and order parts before I need them. In washington state, we seem to have a LOT of bike shops. I find that most don't carry parts that I need. I did, however, buy new grips this weekend (28 bucks!. Ouch!)

I do enjoy going in shops though, just to look around on occasion. I don't have anything against them, I just don't need their services too often.