Business model. Gc always pretended to be the place to get your first guitar, even advertised constantly about it. But their business model was service to people buy 100k or more worth of stuff. (schools and large bands) it is bad for their real business to service the little guy, they need to be free should the big spender walk in!
Small shops always gave better service to the little guy because that was their business.
The independent music shops are so much more welcoming and helpful.