Trunk Slammer's Office
“Are ‘trunk slammers’ stronger than ever?” ask Jason Knott with CE Pro [http://www.cepro.com/article/are_trunkslammers_stronger_than_ever/]. The answer is unclear – but what is apparent is that the “times they are a changing.” As our company evolves to address this new economy, the CE Pro described ‘bottom feeders’ will stop at nothing (including malicious rumors) to attempt to capture work.
So what exactly is a ‘trunk slammer’ – by origin it is believed to be a sole proprietor who operates out of the trunk of his/her vehicle. Characteristics predominately include items such as the business phone number is cellular and a post office box number is used for a mailing address. Their showroom is located in their home where they demonstrate their version of ”cutting edge” electronics. They compete solely on low price.
Depth and field of service, limited by 2,080 hours, incapable of keeping pace with the dynamics of the electronic industry, unable to provide adequate guidance for shopping customers, are just a few of the limiting factors inhibiting these trunk slamming participants. Basic elements of audio and visual principals elude the ‘trunk slammer’ should ground differentials exist, near field measurements need to be taken, or other testing or problem solving item be required. For example, most ‘trunk slammers’ have recommend against HDMI because they lack the a knowledge base to install it correctly much less make it work.
A custom integrator in San Diego described ‘trunk slammers’ as “running rampant. It seems as if every guy/gal who used to work for Circuit City, Tweeter, Good Guys and Comp USA are all out there…” In tough economic times, potential customers (he referred to this group as ‘stretchers’) want what they can’t afford and are willing to take quality risk, if paying the price is something they can achieve.
Often asked, “Who are our competitors?” The answer is simply “ones who have committed to certification and continuing education by independent organizations in the industries in which they compete.” Anything less only serves to degrade the reputation of those who provide that level of commitment.
In my next post, we’ll discuss the evolution taking place at eLifespaces and the opportunities that may exist for those ‘trunk slammers’ who want to be more.
Tags: ESC Forward Looking