Greed and complacency.
Greed of the manufacturers foremost, greed of the dealer second, and lastly, a consumer market so used to being screwed that they just accept it. The latter of which is beginning to change. It has taken a while for the Canadian consumer to wake up. Now that they have, manufacturers and dealers had better make some changes if they want to make a living in this country.
You think we're used to it too eh? I'm usually in the minority when I say that. I get the impression that it makes Canadians 'feel' better to pay more; like there actually getting more. I do think the high taxes/big gov thing has something to do with it.
Hopefully people will continue to demand better, but I'm not holding my breath. There just isn't enough competition in Canada. The auto sector is expecting things to return to 'normal'. They're not lower their prices, they're using incentives to reduce the price. Someting they can stop when they feel like it. They drive me nuts. If you buy a car in Canada soon, make sure you ask them where it was made. If it was in Canada get them to explain how a car built in our economy costs less in a country with a stronger dollar. One of the few times you'll leave a salesman speechless. :)
If the dollar stays close to par for a number of years we might have a chance. If the dollar drops to it's previous levels they'll just say 'Oh well the dollar dropped so the prices went up.' and Canadians will go 'Oh you must be right that makes complete sense here take my money'. SNAFU. Just like before.
All I can say is that I've been keeping USPS busy!
