David.Thank you very much for your valued opinion. I understand the points you raise but i am affraid i don't agree with the concept that because you are a long established company THAT WE ARE THE ONLY TILE SHOWROOM IN THIS TOWN and use the buying power you have with certain manufacturers to ( what may be a sole traders efforts to make a living ) hold them to ransom and thwart any possible competition that may give local consumers a choice. There are many difining issues that will detrmine a customers preference but surely the larger established company has the upper hand ? i do not wish to offend any person or company with regards to this matter and i certainly wouldn't have a swipe at others pricing structure if i thought it was warranted. Just out of interest when walking down any high street in the land how many shoe shops, greengrocers are next door to each other ? thanks for taking the time to reply anyway and best wishes.David Goff said:
In answer - you are in a difficult position. We work hard to protect our area and we do have agreements that allow us some exclusivity - this works for the suppliers as well as their product is not becoming "diluted" and you dont have two shops nearby discounting to get the business. Also there is significant investment in samples (on both parts) some of the ranges we do can be £20/£25 a sample board, certain suppliers we have to take their whole range in which could be a £400 - £500 spend on our part just for the samples.
Suppliers will not want to upset an account that is a long standing - pays promptly and turns over £X0000 a year. When suppliers have gone into a showroom a mile up the road we have given them a choice supply them or supply us.
I have worked in retail all my life - its like this throughout retail, think of it like an unofficial franchise. I f you were 25 years established in a Showroom you wouldnt want someone opening near you - selling the same product and sniping at your price.
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26-07-2008
Should it not be a level playing field for all ? and is it Legal ? 
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