I'm basically a library with feet, so I've spent decades in the position of frequently knowing more about something than this or that official person in charge of it. I think the overall quality is going down, based on various observations. We're lucky with the nearest big fabric store, though; they still have quality staff. Last time I went in for something, the price had nearly doubled, and I went WTF -- and the saleslady explained it was because things in China were impacting cotton prices. That was frustrating, but useful to know.

*chuckle* But yeah, I've been pulled in for advice in all kinds of places. The Universe has hung a sign on me: "Information Here." I've had total strangers ask me to explain or recommend things to me, or read labels, or whatnot, because I "just look like someone who'd know."