[Joe]

In Manchester we are blessed with a few options in terms of camera/ photographic stores, Jessops on Princess street, another in Trafford centre, Jacobs on Cross street, London Camera Exchange in Picadilly Gardens, Wildings on Deansgate, the usual electrical/electronics shops dotted around, and ourselves 'The Real Camera Company' on the corner of Lever st/Dale street.
In terms of condemning Jessops as the worst place/ staff I have to disagree. As a former employee might I offer my balanced view, and point out that the company finances got pretty much flushed down the toilet a couple of years ago, HOWEVER, as I am now led to believe, the underwriting bank (HSBC) has now basically let them off the hook (in terms of their immediate financial situation). As a regular pricehunter I can honestly say that Jessops prices have become very competitive just recently, and in some cases aren't much dearer than many websites with genuine UK stock. If I put myself in the shoes of many buyers, and also base my opinion on other buyers I've heard from, I would feel MUCH better buying the more expensive items in person from a high st shop. Some of the package deals about are most tempting. (though solid state memory really does need to be more competitively priced).
As far as staff are concerned, yes, not all will be as knowledgeable as the most well read. Ability does vary quite dramatically with those I met. However, very few I met did not have the desire to know more, and grasp extra background knowledge. I should imagine confidence is then easily knocked by the next browser thrusting ill informed opinion at them. A prime example the other day, a professional regular customer advising me how he converts jpg captures back to RAW to 'get the highlights back'!...... I can well imagine many on here would scoff, and shout the guy down rather than listen to his experiences, however,
its not necessarily about points scoring or ego messaging for staff (though can be for some customers and staff). I got my lens sale, lent him my ear, got some useful feedback on other kit he owns. He got a friendly chat, a bit of banter, a lens at a good price and I would hope enjoyed the experience, and we'll meet again.
I would hope (and expect) some staff training might well be on the cards in the future at Jessops, now that the company seems to be in a better position. On a positive note too, I would second guess that Jessops as a company could well improve.
I for one would like to see them remain on the high street.