It's interesting that this topic has provoked discussion and that people feel these things too! I thought I was the only weirdo... haha.
But yeah, like mr dave said, there are a lot of shops over here that are filled will failed 'rockstars' or local 'legends' who think they are top **** and better than everyone else. There are a few stores where the clerks are like what ElephantSack would be like - friendly and encouraging, etc. I just get so apprehensive still when I walk into a music store still, mainly because I try to sound like I know what I'm talking about, when really I don't.
Good luck for your in-store, David!
