Strange to say the least

[itsme]

Has anyone noticed that some component supplier’s [Retailers]appear to be on the verge of closing down? For obvious reasons I can’t name them, if you seem to think on the same lines as I, please do not name the companies. Just say why?

 

[Ian]

Component suppliers as in Motherboard manufacturers, or retailers themselves? I can think of a few of the former, but don't know of any retailers - then again, I wouldn't know how to tell

 

[itsme]

Component suppliers as in Motherboard manufacturers, or retailers themselves? I can think of a few of the former, but don't know of any retailers - then again, I wouldn't know how to tell

Sorry Ian "Retailers"

 

[Adywebb]

Sorry itsme, how can you tell if a retailer is close to shutting down

 

[Me__2001]

my memory isn't great but i think someone posted a clearance/liquidation sale not that long ago fo a couple of companies

 

[itsme]

Ady> Me__2001 is on the right track just look for the little signs buy one get a 2nd Etc:

 

[Adywebb]

doh!! - thanks guys, I'll keep an eye out....

 

[Anon_F]

Closing down

The whole IT & Computer market seems to work on a tighter budget than 3 years ago. 3 years ago whilst at College I could build a top of the range pc for £700, but nowadays companies like Dell & PC World etc have lowered their prices, mark up & profit per pc. Dell is selling pc’s at £299, I can’t build one for that price, so the smaller companies are loosing out big time.

I looked at building a system for a friend who had £1000 to play with, but they could get better spec from buying from one of the big players than from me!

 

[muckshifter]

The whole IT & Computer market seems to work on a tighter budget than 3 years ago. 3 years ago whilst at College I could build a top of the range pc for £700, but nowadays companies like Dell & PC World etc have lowered their prices, mark up & profit per pc. Dell is selling pc’s at £299, I can’t build one for that price, so the smaller companies are loosing out big time.

I looked at building a system for a friend who had £1000 to play with, but they could get better spec from buying from one of the big players than from me!

You are correct ... most people just look at the ££.£££ ... But would they get the same level of "service" from them ... or you.

I had many a "customer" come into my workshop brandishing a leflet from leaflet the Big Boys asking if I can beat the price ... I simply said No! But you are more than welcome to bring it to me for 'repair' when you cannot get them to 'fix' it for you ... oh, and I'll charge you double, for the pleasure.

I offered a service they could not ... and not for that much more in price

 

[MeshVictim]

The whole IT & Computer market seems to work on a tighter budget than 3 years ago.

... most people just look at the ££.£££ ... But would they get the same level of "service" from them ... or you.

I agree with you both. I was like "most people", I ordered from a firm which gets good reviews in computer magazines and which offered the system I wanted significantly cheaper than their competitors. I should have asked myself "how can they beat their rivals' prices by so much in such a competitive market ?", and then done my homework on the company to find out the answer. It seems the answer is that there is very little in their price to cover customer service because they offer very little in the way of customer service. However, this business model does not seem to be working because, after over 12 years as a Public Limited Company (PLC), they delisted in April 2005. I will not of course be naming the company of which I was a victim, but I would advise buyers to do their homework on retailers and .......
Be Careful !!!
Best Wishes,
MeshVictim

 

[Anon_F]

Best advert is

I always thought that a happy customer was the best advert for any company, I’m more than happy to guide people to this and other forums (this forum is the best though! ) so they can see what is written.