Hearthlist Digest #293 - Sunday, May 2, 1999
 
Re: Trade Show
  by <[email protected]>
Y2K and Trade Show
  by "Teton Fireplace Design" <[email protected]>
 

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Subject: Re: Trade Show
From: [email protected]
Date: Sun, 2 May 1999 10:45:47 -0400
 
 I agree with most of  what Tim says, however I do believe the accolades for
Heat n Glo are  misplaced, at least with our  experience in their booth. It
was a great booth but after our third attempt to get some help there I
approached the "group" as they were doing the same as the  Security guys ...
The person who did follow me to the product in question excused himself for a
"minute"  and then never returned.  Imagine my surprise when I went out to
the burn area and he was stuffing his mouth with food from their grill.  we
approached  and was completely ignored!!!  Sort of like the Austroflamm booth
not to mention the Blaze King booth.  Funny thing, we get many customers in
our store who were treated that way in a competitor's store and guess what...
the old adage--- if they are satisfied they will tell their friends---if they
are dissatisfied they will tell anyone who will listen!!!!! Thanks for the
opportunity to vent a little frustration.  We have heard from more than a few
dealers about the booths with the little "cliches".  Happy
Trails.........................CP from North Forge  in Pa
 
 
 
 

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Subject: Y2K and Trade Show
From: Teton Fireplace Design <[email protected]> (by way of Craig
 Issod)
Date: Sun, 2 May 1999 10:45:48 -0400
 
I echo Peters message.  In our area too many companies are trying to
capitalize on this Y2k issue.  Even though it is tempting to try and cash in
on the panic,  if the great "millenium bug"  doesn't pan out then the
reputation that I have spent years trying to build will be reduced to a
"cheesy salesman".  I try to help customers with the products which will
serve their needs today and in the future. This is why I'm in business; to
make a good living by selling good products at a fair price with exceptional
service.  I learned that this is how good business is practiced and
perfected,  not by trying to sell people products based on their fears.
 
I also would warn those companies whose reps at the hearth show were too
engrossed in themselves to answer any questions.  ( I specifically mention
the reps at the DCS booth,  who when my wife and I approached the booth
proceeded to walk away and turn their backs on us.)  Not only is this not
good business it is also rude and as a DCS dealer made me wonder why I would
want to have their product displayed in my store.  It would seem to me that
if a company goes to the time and expense to have a booth at the HPA they
would send reps who were more eager to talk to customers.  If I had
employees that treated customers that way they would pay their way back home.
 
Good Luck next year seeing me at your booth.
 
John @ Teton