Surviving with a niche

I've talked to a few business lately, who are bucking the trend of larger ones that are going bankrupt.

They are niche businesses -- custom shoe shops, vacuum salemen, bra merchants and others.

And they've all mentioned that even as the economy tanks, they are staying alive, because they cater to such customized needs that we all need them.

There are the custom-fitting shoes for the wider foot; the vacuum bags you can't find at Wal-Mart; and the bra that fits just right.

So, at a time when the Circuit Cities of the world are failing, it's good to know some businesses that sell stuff we need are still afloat and are optimist