Final answer:
Traditional retailers have declined because of the convenience and accessibility of smartphones for online shopping, incentives like free shipping and zero sales tax, comparative shopping that leads to rock-bottom prices, and the dominance of e-commerce giants like Amazon.
Step-by-step explanation:
Some of the factors that have contributed to the decline of traditional retailers include the increased use of smartphones, which has made online shopping more accessible and convenient for consumers of all ages. The offering of perks like free shipping and zero sales tax by some online retailers has made them more attractive than brick-and-mortar stores. Furthermore, the ability to do comparative shopping easily online and finding rock-bottom pricing has intensified competition, leading to declines in physical store sales.
Additionally, the rise of e-commerce platforms like Amazon has significantly altered consumer buying habits, as they have provided a wide range of products, competitive prices, and convenience that traditional bookstores and other retailers have struggled to match. The ease of online delivery and purchase has overshadowed traditional business models, resulting in the closing of established chains like Borders and struggles for others like Barnes & Noble.