Ever feel like a "low dollar" customer that your dealer doesn't think worth their time?


I'm a careful researcher for audio gear and I also understand the value of brick and mortar stores. I am not OCD and I am not an irascible haggler. Indeed, I have told my local stores that if they carry something I like, I will buy from them and not try to find it cheaper on the net. I have purchased major pieces of gear from them.

Nevertheless, one local shop is erratic in how it treats me. Emails can take a long time to get acknowledged, and often exchanges take several back-and-forths to get clear questions answered. This shop sells gear at my price point and up to 10x more (think Wilson speakers, $7k power cords). I often feel I'm more like a fly buzzing around their heads than a valued customer trying to establish a customer-dealer relationship. I am trying to be loyal, but it makes me want to shop online. I could be reading the situation wrong, but this is definitely a pattern.

Has anyone else had the sense that they were too much of a "low dollar" customer to be worth the dealer's time?
hilde45

Showing 2 responses by oldhvymec

+ You and me both, I'm a Mac guy, and have been for 50 years. I'm sure my appearance, is a little deceiving. LOL But I've walked in ready to buy with 30,000.00 cash in my pocket, AND WALKED OUT... Got on a plane flew to Texas bought some gear, and shipped it back to California.

Went back to the dealer in 2 months with pictures of the new equipment
2 1.2k power amps, MX150, C2500, ect.. The whole thing.. He CRIED!!

He had my money but wouldn't even say hello on the showroom floor.

I got a Christmas card from the dealer in Texas for 15 years. He retired.

BTW, he paid for the plane ticket too.

Regards
Funny how you can tell when someone is in sales, or their SIL, Son, brother someone they know is in sales..

The customer has the money... They may not always be right, but a good salesperson, can always, suggest. Made up minds, are money in the bank. Right? Ask one question... Is this what you want?... NOT NEED!
WANT!! Half the time the person will say, "if I had the money" la-te-da.

or NO, "this is what I want, or can afford" 

BUT not even ask a question.. LOL c'est la vie.....

Take my gold elsewhere....

Regards...