We live in extraordinary times regarding the RC industry and the way we all purchase products. For the last few years the beginning of the end for the 'old school" system or business model has been steadily growing in scope and speed. Here in the USA and other places I'd assume, those like Horizon and Tower for example, are desperately trying to hold onto their steadily decreasing market share.
Over the newt 3-5 years expect to see an ever decreasing supply of "small" online shops as well as local "brick and motor" shops. It's a truly global market now and getting bigger and better daily. Pretty soon (again I'd guess 3-5 years) there ill only be a handful of "survivors" and LOT of manufacturer direct or HK like online sellers.
It's exciting in ome ways but, it's sad in others. Low prices are great but, the death of god customer service will be missed. Most think the market controls how we spend our hobby dollars, it's quite the opposite, we control and shape the market. We've created this monster, now we have to play with it LOL!