User blog comment:Dustpirate/Do Stores become unnecessary?/@comment-5039776-20120618144108/@comment-5039776-20120618221119

Yes, but do understand which stores give you bang for your buck and stock up on raw materials from the market at low prices. This way, you can maximise profits and XP.

You also save your villagers the hard work of doing all those chores and allow them simply to buy stuff. Who wouldn't want to do that?