major cutbacks = $$$$ for RCL

[cle-guy]

For some, shopping is seen as an activity. "Retail Therapy" some call it also.

 

So think of these cheapo sales tables similarly to paying for a bingo card, or paying for a wine tasting - it's paying to participate in the activity.

[hulamoon]

I also expect to buy more than we do on a cruise, although i picked up and iPad once. I would attend more computer classes if the instructors were not so overwhelmed with passengers yelling at them. And there needs to be more levels to them.

 

If the spa prices are as unreasonable as some report, well I may hold that spending back too. Not to boycott, but there have been times we had sessions daily.

 

Also have to agree with the Tuscan, we would be there more frequently if it was as good as it was in 2012. It isn't terrible now, but not worth retail price.

[cruisestitch]

All the expense savings came when they fired the entire IT department and hired the monkeys to maintain the website -- they work for peanuts -- yuk, yuk:):):)

[Sloop-JohnB]

I am a stockholder, a frequent cruiser (suites), and I get on board with money to spend. But I don't spend it, because nothing interests me.

 

So here are some tips if anyone is listening:

1- improve the quality of the food in the steakhouse (I don't even bother to go now because I think it is a ripoff);

 

2- improve the value of the spa services (they shouldn't cost more for less than what I would get in NYC);

 

3- lower the prices of the photos (many of us would buy more - and all you are doing is tossing them or recycling);

 

4- improve the stock of Apple products (I need a new Ipad, I would save some tax from buying it on board, but I know that there will be none);

 

5- improve the offerings in the stores - everything from Tshirts, hats and beach bags to bathing suits and other clothes (on rainy days I would love to shop);

 

6- stock your sundries shop with books and more snacks - I would love some good snacks to go with the beer that I am buying from you.

 

7- Get rid of the down-market stuff ($10 watches, cheap chains by the yard) - use that space to sell things that people want and will make you a profit.

 

Just some suggestions - the point is, if you improve it, I will buy it - and I can't be alone on this.

 

I agree too... If things were better priced, then I would shop even more

 

Lol, although Mr Sloop would say current formula for suppliers & pricing hasn't slowed me down a great deal. Always come home with stuff off the cruise... photos - Celebrity Souvenirs - and "something" I found at the Blue Box Specials / Sale Tables

 

As a side note...

 

Your list is almost entirely made up of Companies that are subcontracting space from Celebrity to sell their goods (all but # 1 & maybe # 6... Which are run by Celebrity Food & Beverage Services).

 

These outside Contracted Cos. no doubt set the prices (knowing they also have to provide & accommodate their own staff onboard) PLUS give Celebrity a cut of the profits. That is definitely part of the reason that costs on these things are crazy high.

 

Cheers!

Edited October 25, 2014 by Sloop-JohnB