Re: [Paddlewise] Seaward Kayaks

In response to the no demo dealer dilemma.  Having been a small shop owner 
for several years I understand (somewhat) the position of the shopowner.  I 
am not suggesting that Woody is a tire kicker, there are quite a number of 
them out there, however.  As a one man shop it was time consuming to do on 
water demos as my shop was about three blocks from the water.  A number of 
people (present company excluded) would use the free demo simply as a free 
rental.  In order to curb this I began charging for demos.  It was my policy 
to deduct the demo fee from the purchase price.  I felt this was fair to 
serious potential buyers and my business.
 When it comes to high end boats, many small shops cannot afford to stock 
them and larger shops are more interested in volume sales (plastic boats).  I 
feel that we are involved in a retail renaissance.  The Internet may become 
the Sears or Montgomery Ward catalog of bygone days.  The stage is set.  The 
industry is in it's infancy.  If this does come to fruition, we will be faced 
with more no demo dealer dilemma.  Mr. Nick Schade has contributed comments 
regarding the "try before you buy" situation involving his boats.  How can 
you try a boat before it is built?  You have to trust in his highly developed 
craftsmanship and integrity.  If you do, you purchase a work of art.  Mr. 
Matt Broze, his company produces high quality boats without a substantial 
dealer base.  QCC Kayaks (John Winters designs) since their inception has 
been dedicated to producing high quality, lower cost boats without dealers.  
Choosing to spend on production quality rather than promotion quantity.  
These innovative companies
are heading to many of the same battles that the small shop owner has faced.  
The reeducation of the American consumer.  The classic struggle between 
quality and quantity.
   I think that I have a point coming, oh yeah here it is.  It's your dime, 
do with it as you will.  If a dealer wouldn't make some sort of demo 
arrangement, I wouldn't buy the boat.  At least not from him.
 Bruce (St. Aug) 
 Whole Earth Outfitters
***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List
Submissions:     paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net
Subscriptions:   paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************