That's because most are owner-operated. They aren't chains, and a lot of times the person behind the counter is 'the' person. It is not a Pottery Barn, it is somebody's life. Midtown business owners are careful not to overlap the merchandise they sell. For example, Larson may sell wind chimes and wind socks in her store but said she doesn't carry the same product lines Kwong does at his shop.
Merchants know each other, and owners know the customers better.
Let us hear from you.