I have worked in auto parts for the last 10 years.... Worked in and managed Autobarn Stores and other companies as well.
Its easy to complain about the service that any parts salesperson provides but it is almost impossible for someone to specialize in everything.
Most decent auto parts sales people get out of the retail industry because of the headaches that customers cause, the other is the headaches management cause.
Picture this... a customer comes to see you and they tell you they own a Holden Triton Sedan and they want shockies.... this happens on a daily basis. Most cock ups are due to poor information given to the salesperson or the salesperson not asking enough questions.
Experience does cost and some stores wont pay for the experience that a person may bring. That shows in the complaints everybody is expressing.
As for pricing concerns......... I got nothing.