I understand what she means. Prints is a chain store acting like an independent paperie. It's kind of like the Starbucks and Ikea effect. Prints sells decent, consistently well-made products (actually, I don't know if Starbucks coffee is any good since I don't drink coffee) in shops are designed to imitate independent boutiques for people who would probably not be interested in going to actual independent boutiques.
On one hand, this type of shop increases people's awareness and appreciation, which might get them to seek out real independent boutiques and artisans. On the other hand...does it, really? And do these chain stores end up choking off the small boutiques who can't compete? I really do suspect it's more the latter than the former, you know? And yet, there I go, buying my stuff from Prints.
This is their shop in SoHo. I normally go to the Prince's Building one, but since I was in the area, anyway, I thought I'd pop by and get my planner.
I confess that I really love their double-sided wrapping paper.
Anyway, here's their Web site for more information.
