Sharp Expands Aquos Service

By Greg Tarr -- TWICE, 12/1/2008

MAHWAH, N.J. — Sharp has expanded its Aquos AdvantageSM white-glove service and support program to purchasers of 37-inch and 32-inch Aquos LCD TVs.

Previously, the program was only available to consumers with 42-inch and larger Aquos LCD TVs. Sharp said there are now more than 140,000 members enrolled in the program.

The service and support program that Sharp expanded last week will now bring midsize-screen owners priority repair services and a personalized homepage with information about their Aquos product.

The AdvantageSM program, which accepted owners of midsize Aquos sets beginning in November, is free and offers expanded customer support, priority repair services and a personalized homepage with comprehensive information about an Aquos product that was purchased.

"We've received tremendous response and positive feedback for the Aquos Advantage program, and have found that our customers truly appreciate the premium level of customer service," stated Charles Schaefer, Sharp Electronics service and solutions group senior VP. "We decided to expand the program to include consumers that own screen sizes in the midrange, bringing the ultimate consumer experience to a wider base of our customers."

Sharp said it created the program after "extensive research with consumers across the country revealed that service offerings and premium service levels are what customers value most throughout the product ownership lifecycle."

New and existing customers can activate their membership by registering online at www.aquosadvantage.com or by calling a dedicated toll-free number, 1-87-SEE-AQUOS.

Registered members will have exclusive access to Aquos Advantage Advisors with expertise in initial product set-up, maximizing the quality of picture and sound, and finding the right solution for each customer's support needs.

Advisors are also on hand via Web chats from www.aquosadvantage.com.

In addition, Aquos Advantage members who purchase Sharp Aquos Blu-ray DVD players can also receive the enhanced service program.

Sharp said it has also expanded support hours for the program to include Saturday appointments for in-home service visits. Sharp's Aquos Advantage Advisors are available for member support 365 days a year.

Priority repair service, including next business day scheduling and expedited service visits is included and a customer may be provided with a loaner TV until a repair is complete.

A password-protected homepage will provide members with comprehensive information about their products.