30.Shopping, service

Q1 What are the benefits and drawbacks of consumerism for a country's economy?

Ans- Well, as far as the pros of consumerism are concerned, it stimulates economic growth by creating a never-ending cycle of buying and selling. The more goods are consumed by society, the higher the growth rate of the economy is. But unfortunately, this economic growth is possible only if all these consumer goods are not only consumed but also produced within the country. In real life, consumerism has more cons, to my mind, as the more it spreads, the weaker is the incentive to manufacture long-lasting, quality products, and the greater is the likelihood that cheaply made products will instead be imported from the lowest-wage, environmentally unregulated overseas manufacturers. This usually leads to the loss of manufacturing jobs, which in turn leads to a corresponding growth in unemployment and the number of welfare recipients, less personal wealth, a shrinking tax base, fewer public services and greater public and private debt, hopelessness for job seekers and a growing negative balance of trade

Q2 What are the advantages and disadvantages of shopping at a big shopping centre?

Q3 What makes large shopping malls so popular?

Ans- Oh, one of the biggest advantages of shopping at a large shopping mall is a chance to visit a variety of shops without having to spend a lot of time on going to different areas of the city. Another advantage is a chance to get both shopping and entertainment opportunities at a single location... Oh, and, of course, an opportunity to park a car thanks to vast parking areas... As far as the disadvantages are concerned, I'd lay emphasis on huge crowds of people, especially at weekends and on holidays, and the temptation to buy unnecessary things because of sales and special offers.

Q4 What are the differences between shopping online and in-store?

Ans- You know, shopping online and in-store feels really different. One big difference is the convenience factor. Online shopping lets you buy anytime and anywhere, while in-store shopping means you have to actually go to the shop. It's great when you're busy or the weather is bad, because you can just order stuff from your phone. But when you shop in-store, you get to see and try products. You can touch things, try on clothes, and be sure about what you're buying, which you can't really do online. Also, with online shopping, there's usually a waiting time for delivery, so you don't get your item right away like you do in stores. So, each way has its own pros and cons depending on what matters more to you... convenience or the experience.

Q5 What do you think are the pros and cons of shopping online?

Ans- Well, online shopping is really advantageous, to my mind. It lets people do shopping without too much of effort comparing prices with a click of a mouse, getting access to products they can't buy locally and shopping anytime and anywhere either in the comfort and privacy of their home or office or literally on the go. As far as disadvantages are concerned, doing shopping online customers can't get an item straight away after paying for it, don't have a chance to try clothes on and can't compare the fit of the clothes they are choosing from.

Q6 Are small shops important?

Q7 What are the advantages and disadvantages of shopping in small shops?

Ans- I guess, they are. Small stores provide job opportunities for local residents and are an integral part of local business. What is more, they are usually closer to home, don't have long queues and have everything people can need between visits to hypermarkets. So, there is no doubt neighbourhoods need them.