I was fortunate to be invited by a friend to attend this years "Interiors Birmingham" trade show held at the NEC arena between the 17th and 21st Jan. There was a hugh range of beds on sale by many of the big names in bed manufacturers and some real innovation in fold-away beds that blew me away (despite the stand being destroyed by my friends GF).
The whole purpose of our visit was so that my friend could secure more suppliers of high quality beds and bedding for his online store.
What was surprising was that everyone appeared really eager to do business with him right up until the point where he mentioned that he was an Internet only trader.
Now, my friends online shop isnt crap, he holds 2000+ products on a well designed site and isnt interested in 'bargain basement' sales, instead hes intent on becoming a big name in the online bed sales market, and I was stunned by the utter contempt shown to him.
A few suppliers were really appologetic and even I can appreciate that there are plenty of people out there who'd be happy to sell a bed at £10 above cost just to make the sale however my friend is not one of them.
One or two manufacturers had a great and simple policy that would enable Internet sellers to trade without effecting traditional bricks and mortar businesses. This policy is simply to have a minimum sale price on each item.
Problem solved.
As the highstreet continues to be brow beaten due to the constant acceleration of online sales it simply doesnt make sense for manufacturers to ignore online sales when a simple price control policy is all thats required to ensure that a fair price is paid by all.
In addition, Some manufacturers welcomed the business but placed a caveat that their brand names could not be used. This again i find strange as people seeking to compare the prices of products is one of the strengths of internet sales.
So come on Manufacturers... please open the door on Internet sales.
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