DSI Speeds Dealer Rebates

By Alan Wolf -- TWICE, 3/22/2010

DALLAS — DSI Systems, a national distributor of HDTVs, satellite equipment and accessories, has a program in place that addresses lengthy wait-times for instant rebate reimbursements.

The company’s online rebate-claim process, developed in 2009, allows dealers to make their consumer rebate claims directly through DSI rather than the manufacturer. The process provides dealers with reimbursements at the end of the rebate program, instead of the typical waiting period of weeks or even months.

The service is open to authorized dealers that purchase eligible products through DSI.

Instant rebates have proven popular with consumers, and manufacturers are increasingly utilizing the programs to drive sales. But the lag time for dealer reimbursements — due, vendors claim, to the complicated nature of the programs — has created a severe cash drain for some retailers.

3D REDUX

RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CALIF. — Mitsubishi showcased its 3D-ready TVs at a new Linder’s Furniture superstore here earlier this month. The TVs, available since 2007, were bundled by Linder’s with a 3D gaming system. On hand for the event were, from left, Rancho Cucamonga Mayor Donald Kurth and Linder’s execs Phil Linder, Eric Foucrier and Tom Campbell.