Take a look at the Red Ranger. I know McMurray Hatchery has it. Not sure if others have it or may call it something different. It grows big and it grows quickly and it is robust. Not like the disgusting CXR. Lays big eggs, too. However, as an egg layers it is not in the top tier but rather...
The local feed store simply make a bulk order from a hatchery -- might even be the same hatchery you're ordering from. It might be that the feed store gets order shipped directly from the hatchery or to the feed store's central location and THEN to the feed store. Only benefit that I see in...