Retailer Strategies Consumers Should Look Out For When Purchasing Consumer Electronics
By: Theresa Walter
Submitted: 2012-02-21 19:05:57 | Word Count: 422
The consumer electronics industry is a highly aggressive market and retail store owners can't be blamed for coming up with strategies to make a sale. It is always best for consumers to familiarize themselves with these strategies so they don't end up falling victim to strategic sales pitch in retail stores.
Think thrice before purchasing an extended warranty.
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Many electronic retail stores offer extended warranty on their products even on items that cost less than fifty dollars. This is because most of the items that they are selling have a very slim profit margin. The only way they could earn more is by selling more products and ensuring that their items gets sold fast because of the rapid turnover when it comes to product innovations. The profit that they could get from extended warranties, service plans and other product protections can be as much as 50%. Most shoppers don't even get to claim the extended warranties because the products usually break down during the period of the manufacturer's warranty.
By the time the extended warranty is effective, the consumer would probably want to purchase a newer model. Typically, these extended warranties also do not cover accidental damage. Don't get easily cajoled into purchasing an extended warranty for consumer electronics. Experts suggest that extended warranties are best purchased on items such as laptops and computer systems. Also, make sure that the warranty includes accidental damage as well as extended technical support.
Purchase only the items with features that you need.
Again, the aggressive sales pitch from salespersons can leave a consumer feeling overwhelmed and end up purchasing more than what was originally intended to buy. Some consumers end up buying a product with advanced features that they don't even need and won't ever use. Retail stores will always push for the latest models because the prices are usually higher. The extra features such as memory card slots, internet browsing capabilities, HDMI slots, are only some of the features that are highlighted by a salesperson to persuade buyers, making the latest item seem like a more worthy purchase. Consumers who are armed with knowledge and research on what exactly to get and what exact features they particularly need are not easily swayed. When it comes to purchasing electronic gadgets, most people will only require the basic functions of the product.
Get the consumer electronics items cheaper if you purchase online.
One subject that retailers probably won't talk about is online shopping. This is because items being sold online are comparatively cheaper. For example, a $2,500 television with a 55 inch size can be bought online for only $1,700 for the exact same brand and model. Online shoppers only need to do research on various reputable selling sites, compare prices, see which one has the better deal and which site offers free shipping. Online shopping does have its risks such as scams, order cancellations for out of stock items and damaged items upon delivery. Noevertheless, these things do not often happen and most online buyers tend to be satisfied with their purchases.
