Monday, September 29, 2008

Kitchens, Baths, Plumbing Combats Online Plumbing Sales

The idea is to share information, gain information, talk about solutions and answer questions related to Community Home Supply, Co. and CommunityHomeSupply.com.
Within the plumbing industry there are constant changes, upgrades, and new products regularly. We try to keep up with issues, address problems and help move the industry forward.

For example, The plumbing industry is finally beginning to recognize the advantages and disadvantages websites have made available to us. The sale of plumbing products online is becoming increasingly more popular. Some websites sell plumbing products online at a discounted price which is unmatchable for a normal retailer. What regulations should be placed on these companies? How can we as retailers compete against these prices?

My answer is, "Service." We as the retailer have the ability to service the customer through almost any issue they may run across. The customer must be made to understand by the sales associate, that although they may be saving a dollar here, or a dollar there, the online consumer will be left on their own should there be any problems with their order.

In other words, If we don't know the answer...we must find the answer.
As retailers we have customer service people on location daily who can answer customer questions in a timely fashion and make contact with a manufacturer or their representative if need be to get the answers.