I’m sure the site populated its database with simple information found on other websites or phone book listings. Once the site goes live (no true launch date I know of yet) I’m sure hobbyists and LFSs will swoop in to make the changes to the site.

I am wondering if there is going to be a peer review area. I know stores aren’t going to want to pay money just to be publically bashed, but without walking into a store yurself, peer reviews are the next best thing.

According to a comment from LFS Locator’s Chris Taylor:

“…I would like to tell your readers about some features that will be added within the week as we prepare for our full launch.

Stores have the ability to pay for a Premium Membership with tons of additional benefits. See a sample here: http://tinyurl.com/dnk7nu

In addition to what you see on the site now, here are some other features we are adding:

Hobbyists will have the ability to login and create their own personal profile and “favorite” their local stores. When their store updates their page with a new sale or promotion, those hobbyists will be notified via email! Special sales and promotions for LFSLocator users are highly recommended.
In addition, the LFS will be able to see who has “favorited” them, and they will be able to view their profile and learn more about their customer.

All the tools, marketing, and support are all geared to accomplish our ongoing goal: to bring local fish stores and hobbyists together like never before. We believe in supporting local economy, and community.”

Should be interesting and I am planning on doing what I can with the stores I know to make sure they are as accurate as possible.

Thanks again Jake!

Brian Blank — Ocean@Home