Re: "These messages could be to alert a customer that they've left their umbrella in the shop"
In order to survive, they need to adapt. Maybe open later and close later on certain days, do mail order, set up a website (you don't have to be able to buy it, just at least let me know what you do).
I lived in a small town some years ago and a gentleman opened a music (recorded) store. His hours, unlike everyone else's 9-5, were from noon to nine at night. Open 6 days a week. He'd match prices with the big store in town (Wal-Mart) and also order any music he didn't carry. He did so well that the local Wally World basically couldn't compete.
The other local stores didn't get it and many didn't last very long. For example, guy opened a sporting goods store selling a lot items targeted a kids. His hours... 9-5 and only open during the week. No weekends. He disappeared rather quickly.
I agree, understanding your customer base is everything.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
