> I’d be happy to support local merchants, but they have to get the overall value proposition somewhat competitive. For the most part, they aren’t. Maybe it’s pricing, selection, policies, hours of operation, or some combination, but other than grocers and large chains, I’m not even sure they’re trying.

This.

I actively avoid local businesses because with few exceptions they always try to screw you, whether that's prices, low quality service, or something else.

Even something as simple as canceling an order that hasn't yet been paid or shipped I get senseless push back from local businesses.

When it's easier and less stress free for me to return a 1200€ drone to Amazon 3 times, than it is for me to cancel a 80€ chestnut order that hasn't been paid or shipped from a local business, the problem isn't Amazon and the solution is obvious.