There's a music store here in Hitachi that I visit every once in a while to tempt myself with buying an (Epiphone) Les Paul Guitar. It's not doing well though, partially because of the economy, but also, I think, because of this:

"Do not touch" signs. In a music store.

They don't trust their customers.

Can you imagine going into Nordstrom's and not being able to try on clothes? Or visiting Frye's and not being able to geek out while molesting the latest and greatest gadgets? Not only is it a slap in the face to customers, but it's also counterproductive to business: the power of touch does wonders to increase impulse buys!

The rationale is powered by risk aversion. If customers don't touch the products, there's little chance of damage, right? Maybe, but if you don't trust your customers, you also risk them not wanting to spend their hard-earned cash on your business.