Everyone working in this industry today needs a boost, some inspiration to help us soldier on during the day, sleep a little better at night and wake up with enough hope to make a difference.
No matter what type of economic conditions we’re facing, the young people we work with usually provide that boost and inspiration. That’s why each year we highlight in our “40 Under 40” report some of the CE industry’s most successful, up-and-coming and brightest young stars.
The roundup not only lauds the accomplishments of our young colleagues, it also identifies the people you’ll probably be working for one day, if you’re not already. But whatever the future status of this young group might be, it always pays to listen to them, especially if you need some ideas for a brighter, more profitable tomorrow. Here are some examples from this year’s “40 Under 40” inductees.
Lyle Smith, vice president of sales, western U.S. and western Canada, at Klipsch, receives a heavy dose of hope from the retailers he visits each day, making him believe the market is rebounding.
“It’s the attitude of the retailers,” he said. “There’s excitement out there; they’re talking about growth rather than survival. They’re looking to pick up Circuit City business, looking to add categories. It’s exciting to hear of them wanting to grow and generate new business. The business dialogue is very positive.”
Jeff Unterreiner, vice president of business development at extended warranty provider Assurant Solutions, said retailers of all stripes are working extra hard at boosting the ticket price on each sales, making sure each customer walks out the door with everything needed to optimize the core purchase. And the best news, he added, is that customers are willing to pay for the additional products and services.
“We’re seeing an increase in attachment rates on major CE investments like large-screen TVs, and higher-end laptop computers,” he said. “That shows the market is rebounding, because we don’t sell our products unless retailers sell the hardware.”
Retailers aren’t the only segment of the industry putting in extra effort to overcome current challenges. Trent Davis, product manager at Audio Authority, a developer and manufacturer of AV components, said his company has to be as flexible as ever in providing dealers with specific products they can easily sell.
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