So, it had been a couple of years since I've done anything model related, so I decided since I'm getting back into it again, I'd visit my local hobby shop. WOW. They had completely remodeled the place, doubled the number of plastic model kits, added a separate section for resin/PE and moved all the paint, paint supplies and tools to a larger area right at the front of the store.
Best part? They are now a US retailer for Vallejo Acrylics. Which means no more Internet ordering from the UK (nothing personal guys) or overseas! Living in Minnesota, it's not exactly a large metro area like an Dallas or Los Angeles, so I was really happy. Like happy to the tune of close to $70 worth of paint and supplies to replace old paint I had to toss when inventorying over the past couple of days.
Suffice it to say, I'll be keeping them in business with my tools and paints purchases. The kits are a bit pricey, but I understand (as a sales rep myself) the business of operating margins, etc. Every once in a while they have some good 25% sales for the kits, so I'll watch for those as well.