New York — In a salute to dealers who have created a successful niche within the fiercely competitive marketplace, and to help share best practices with our readers, TWICE presents its third annual roster of Retailers To Watch.
As with previous honor rolls, the 2005 installment profiles white and brown goods retailers who through marketing, store design, service, selection and/or business model have earned the admiration and respect of their peers, suppliers and customers.
This year’s short list — A/V innovator World Wide Stereo, e-tail pioneer Vann’s, and legendary majaps merchant Karl’s — is once again based on industry input and the judgment of TWICE. While the roster is by no means comprehensive, it is representative of the best in breed in specialty retailing. Congratulations, dealers.
Hatfield, Pa. — A now legendary series of wacky and risqué radio spots helped make Bob & Ron’s World Wide Stereo as much a local fixture for Philadelphia area residents as cheese steaks and the Liberty Bell.
Missoula, Mont. — Vann’s has never been afraid to be a pioneer, and the CE and majaps retailer continues to reinvent itself with each passing decade.
Fairfield, N.J. — Karl’s, the 54-year-old, seven-showroom majap chain in Northern New Jersey, bills itself as “The Ultimate Appliance Store.” It’s a claim that few in the white-goods industry would challenge.
