Hacker News Reader

Comment by seibelj | Hacker News Reader

My neighbor is the best wallpaper guy in the city, which you’d think is extremely niche but wallpaper has come back in a big way. All sorts of businesses out there for those who identify needs and service wants. And the best way to know about a business is to work for an established one first

View on HN

I’ve always wondered how the hell things like vacuum repair shops and other niche stores I still see around from time to time are still around.

It’s not that I don’t think anyone would choose to repair their vacuum. It’s more that I can’t imagine they get enough volume to pay the lease/rent/bills on whatever commercial property they’re on.

Tough as consumer goods are generally getting cheaper and better quality. Can’t remember the last time we had a problem with the TV. We have left them behind when moving apartments as they’re relatively cheap now

The smart ones will own their shop outright. If not, they are on a longterm lease.

Also, don't knock it, a quality vacuum like a Kirby or Miele will go decades, are incredibly quiet, and just need maintenance on wear and tear, which these repair shops provide. I think we got used to thinks being terrible. Like my Dyson, does good work, it's also very loud compared to my financially secure friend's Miele.

> Like my Dyson…

Which is wild because a Dyson has a premium price tag.

Love this one. You are selling people their time back with a service like wallpapering for sure.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com