Re: [Leica] Should Leica Follow IBM?

["tdschofield" <tdschofield@msn.com>]

I think they need dealer support.  It took a decade of dealer wooing to
convince me to tae the plunge.  The internet sales wold work fine for
existing Leica owners, but IMHO would decrease the number of converts.

Tom

- ----- Original Message -----
From: Stephen <cameras@jetlink.net>
To: <leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us>
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 1999 2:42 PM
Subject: [Leica] Should Leica Follow IBM?


> According to an article in today's LA Times,  IBM is ending distribution
of
> its APTIVA PC line through retail stores.  Instead, they will sell them
only
> on the internet -- like Dell and Gateway.
>
> I can't help but wonder what it would be like if Leica did the same thing.
>
> Today's  localized distribution center / sales rep / local dealer network
is
> a dinosaur from Leica's 1930's sales network.
>
> Suppose all the overhead of distribution centers, sales reps, and dealer
> profits were eliminated.
>
> Instead, all of that would be replaced by a comprehensive ordering and
> information system out of Solms.  Presumably this savings would mean not
only
> lower prices to the end user, but more profit to Leica as well.   Besides
> profit, it would also improve Leica's cash flow. No longer would Leica
have
> to grant credit to dealers, and await payment.  All sales would be paid
for
> by credit card.    Instead of layoffs, Solms would be hiring.
>
> Imagine emailing Leica, ordering whatever product, and getting a definite
> delivery date within 24 hrs.
>
> Unfortunately this new direct system is not likely to be popular with such
> people as Leica USA personnel, sales reps, or dealers.  However, if Leica
> fails to survive due to lack of sales, they will be out of a job anyway.
>
> Stephen Gandy
>
>
>