Missed opportunity?

[frank81]

I'm sure Shopsmith tracks sales from demos. I still believe there are way too many lookers and not enough serious buyers. I think you answered your own question in the first paragraph why Shopsmith doesn't do the show circuit like they once did. BPR

I work in an industry where shows used to be a HUGE deal. The problem is times have changed. People at these shows pay admission for something to do for the day, see cool stuff, get a few freebie calendars or hats, and make small purchases. No body is going to impulse buy a $3k piece of equipment, or whatever it costs. It doesn't happen anymore, they go home and research it on the internet. Shows have really become nothing more than an advertisement instead of a sales platform and they are beau coup expensive for decent booth space. Multiply that cost time maybe 100 shows across America.

I've personally witnessed it. Foot traffic does not equal writing a check, and its pretty frustrating when you know your company needs the sales to stay afloat and you're having to waste time on people who just want to be entertained or take pictures for their facebook.

A lot of our dealers have pushed back against shows and started running their own open houses. You can have one heck of a cookout, live bands, really nice giveaways, etc. for a fraction of the cost of a show.

[charlese]

The explanation from frank81 has some real facts. I now have a greater understanding of manufacturer's reluctance to go to shows.

Also Ed in tampa's post hit home with me.

And thanks to all who have posted here.

I'm one who still thinks an occasional magazine ad would accomplish good things, but SS has replied the cost of ads didn't pay off!

Yes, I miss the "good ol' days. I'm old enough to remember bread lines and sitting on a curb watching the WPA workers. Then WWII -Later, going to the store with ration stamps for some sugar. Then, after grade school, things got a whole lot better and the good ol' days began.

[JPG]

The explanation from frank81 has some real facts. I now have a greater understanding of manufacturer's reluctance to go to shows.

Also Ed in tampa's post hit home with me.

And thanks to all who have posted here.

I'm one who still thinks an occasional magazine ad would accomplish good things, but SS has replied the cost of ads didn't pay off!

Yes, I miss the "good ol' days. I'm old enough to remember bread lines and sitting on a curb watching the WPA workers. Then WWII -Later, going to the store with ration stamps for some sugar. Then, after grade school, things got a whole lot better and the good ol' days began.

You left out 'OPS' early 50's!:rolleyes: