Level Playing Field Why is it that the large chain stores receive a helping hand by being given volume discounts when it’s the small “mom and pop” stores, the heart and soul of the skateboard industry, that are the ones that need it the most? Though volume discounting has long been a standard in business, it has come to be exploited, with business models being based around it. Consolidated believes this current pricing structure is backwards. We need to break out of this paradigm in order to foster a healthier and more competitive environment. We feel that for a company to ensure its longevity, the foundation of a distribution channel should be more balanced. As our distribution channel becomes more and more polarized, our industry becomes even more fragile. When the actions of one chain store can so heavily influence your company, it is a sign that we are entering into dangerous waters. By putting too many eggs in one basket and giving the large chain stores the discounts they demand, manufacturers are basically forfeiting control of their distribution. Though the short term gain is enticing, the long term result will be detrimental, especially in a volatile industry such as ours. Because it’s the little guys who built this industry and who now need the helping hand, Consolidated feels the time has come to flip the pricing structure, and to “level the playing field.” We know this is something Consolidated cannot do on its own. We encourage other companies and skate shops to work together for the betterment of our industry. Consolidated Skateboards Please forward or post on the web!
i honestly have to agree