The Smaller Conspiracy. Fun and Fantasy, #23

Conspiracy theories usually get dismissed by worker, who can't believe that THEY would plot against us lowlies. Members of THEY dismiss them because THEY don't want to get rumbled as the playful darlings love their fun and games; and the truth stays invisible, hidden in plain sight. But this time no one can dismiss the truth because it is so plain to see, even if the seer's head is shoved up their botty.
The 'terrible' truth won't slap you in the face because it will be 'inside' your face; that's because in some cases, you'll be chewing it. So, don't read this little offering while you are standing up as the sudden realisation what is happening to you may shock you so much your legs will give way. It's in two parts. Firstly an academic waffles on about the world of retail in the usual academic way and then I'll tell you what the academic can't.
As a little comfort offering I can tell you that it will happen slowly so you probably won't notice ... until it's too late and the last thing you ever see are teeth. Good luck.