In our Special Report on Distributors [in the March 25 TWICE] one of the questions we asked executives was which product categories retailers should add.
The executives we interviewed provided us with plenty of suggestions in both CE and non-CE categories. But almost in unison the executives said retailers should consider smartphones and tablets.
At around the same time, American TV & Appliance, the Mid-Western electronics/appliance chain founded in 1954 and based in Madison, Wis., said last week that it is changing its merchandise mix by exiting the car audio, digital imaging and PC categories, and by expanding its selection and displays of furniture, HDTV and home audio.
Now, American TV & Appliance made no mention of smartphones or tablets in its new plan. But the point is that like many retailers American began re-evaluating the categories they carry and decided to cut those that don’t make sense, while adding those they think fit their operations and might provide extra sales and profits.
And there are new categories to consider, most notably health and fitness products. One major segment of it is what we are calling “CE For Seniors.”
A story by managing editor John Laposky outlines the market for CE devices designed to help seniors’ health and well-being, which may help the health and well-being of your business.
Consider all the options available when you reconsider the merchandise mix of your business.
TWICE VIP Awards Program Begins
As you may have read online recently, TWICE announced its first-ever products awards program — the TWICE VIP (Very Important Product) Awards. The VIPs will give retailers and distributors the chance to vote on the products that have made the biggest difference in their business.
Voted on only by retailers and distributors, the TWICE VIPs are based on product features, product design and value to consumers. Manufacturers interested in having their products entered in the TWICE VIP Award competition can enter online by visiting TWICE.com.
Deadline for nominee submissions is Monday, April 15, with voting set to run May 6 to June 28. The winners will be featured in the print and digital editions of TWICE on Aug. 12.
Read the full story on p. 4 for further details or visit TWICE.com.
Visit Me On Twitter
TWICE has its own Twitter account, but I’ve re-opened my own account (Twitter.com/
SteveSmithTWICE) to quickly muse on breaking news or refer you breaking news stories or commentary of interest. I invite you to follow me and join the conversation.
