For electricals there is Euronics network in the UK, retailers with local stores and online. I used a local one to me called the Wash house for Oven and Washing Machine. I ordered in a showroom and stuff is delivered to home. Customer Service was very good and they were cheaper than say AO who are purely online.
Something like a washing machine is different to clothes - online is better for items that have to delivered anyway and don't need to tried on or touched etc and have a low return rate.
The internet is good for intangables i.e. goods and services that are not physical, like financial services, gambling, music, possibly films(movies)
