(WSS was recently named one of the top retailers in the country. Again! This is the 4th year in a row and the 6th time since 2001 that they have been so honored. As the owner of a similarly recognized shop, I thought I would offer a perspective on what this recognition means)
WSS owner, Mark Miller and I have been “industry acquaintances” for nearly 2 decades. We would say hi to one another at trainings or other industry functions and we shared a mutual respect for one another. But a few years ago, we discovered that our way of doing business and our commitment to excellence were very similar. It has put into motion a lot of positive changes at both of our facilities . This realization came about as a direct result of the industry awards.
Great Shops Flock Together
My store, Mobile Edge in Lehighton, PA, had just won the 2010 Retailer of the Year award (we have been among the top shops for 6 years as well). Being the class act that Mark is, he called to congratulate me and my staff. During that conversation, it became clear that we shared the same philosophy on business. More importantly, we found that we had a lot to offer one another. Mark’s area’s of expertise and mine are very different. I was able to help him with marketing his business online and he gave me a lot of sage advice on vendor relations and product mix.
Interestingly, I had many conversations like this with other top shops in the mobile electronics industry. Because we are viewed as a top retailer, many doors were opened to us. Now, if we have a situation that could use a second opinion, we have many like minded people to consult with. We established close relationships with the industry’s top installers. Many times, a quick phone call to one of these guys has saved us countless hours in the bay.
Vendors Are Proud of Their Relationships With Us
Our relationship with our vendors became better than they were. Like WSS, we have always been the “A” dealer in our respective markets. Vendors want their products in our stores. We have always been able to get the brands that we wanted, not just the leftovers that other shops didn’t want. Our support from our vendors was amplified greatly because of our recognition within the industry. Vendors bend over backwards to accommodate us. They see us as a valuable asset and are proud that their product is being represented by a top shop.
This translates to a big win for our clients. Information is power. Because of the relationships brought about in recent years, we have nearly instantaneous access to information. This is huge when we are designing a system or if we run into a snag during an install. Access to other top retailers, installers and vendors is a phone call, text or email away.
Consumer Confidence At An All Time High
All of the above has had a very positive impact on our business. But what I am most proud of is how our “rating” within our industry has helped to inspire confidence with our clients. It’s easy for a shop to tell you they are the best. Shops like WSS and Mobile Edge have the paperwork to back it up.
It is no secret that the mobile electronics industry has it’s share of “less than scrupulous” retailers. Clients tend to be apprehensive about leaving their 2nd largest purchase with a stranger. Fortunately, WSS and Mobile Edge had stellar reputations long before we achieved nationwide wide recognition. This recognition, however, is the icing on the cake. Clients can shop with us knowing that they are dealing with one of the very best shops in the country. There is a tremendous value to this.
Tying it all together
As a consumer, you have an abundant amount of choices when you make a purchase today. We know that. Everyone wants a great value, including business owners like Mark and myself. I submit that you will find great value in dealing with a shop like WSS Westminster Speed and Sound. Time and time again, they have proven themselves to be reputable, honest, talented and caring. They are looked at in the absolute highest regard by their peers and by their vendors. For 4 years in a row they have been named one of the best in the nation at what they do. If you are considering the purchase of something that they offer, you owe it to yourself to stop in and see what they are all about!
Guest writer Mitch Schaffer is the owner of Mobile Edge in Lehighton, PA. His store has been among the top retailers in the Mobile Electronics industry for 6 years and the recipient of the 2010 Mobile Electronics Retailer of the Year.
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