[Jewelry making - Article 00040] - Re: [Orchid] Negotiating with Retailers

[J.B.]

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    I have read a lot of negative comments about retailers on this list.
     I have read nothing about the cost of being in business and keeping
    the doors open and paying the retailer a living wage. A retailer has
    taken a large risk opening their business.  The retailer has put in
    a lot of time, work, and money establishing  a presence, a
    reputation, and a customer base during a less then stellar economy. 
    A retailer has a set location and is there for the customer.  We
    have to have at least a open thirty day return policy to keep up
    with the competition.  We have to have a 6 month free repair policy
    on purchases to beat the competition.  We have been left on the
    short end of the stick by artists on both instances.  We have had
    artists refuse to return funds on returned pieces even though they
    have agreed to the return policy.  We have also had artists refuse
    to repair their work with the comment that they do not have the time
    to work on anything for free.  As a retailer I do have to make the
    customer happy and have to pay out the refund or do the repair for
    free.  My customers are valuable and I will fire an artist before I
    will fire a customer. Artists expect when they come in to find a show
    case for them with displays provided.  They expect insurance
    coverage, security system, advertising, customer base, open 5 or
    more days a week, 10 hours a day.  All this has no cost right? The
    government and trade organizations expect us to be aware of the FTC
    rules and regulations and obey them. The state expects the retailer
    to keep complete records of business and pay sales taxes. The county
    expects to be paid a annual property tax on all displays, fixtures,
    and property not for sale in the business. The city expects
    collection of sales taxes and licenses for signage and business.  Oh
    did I mention the cost of an accountant? We have had held trunk
    shows.  Our customers invited from our mailing list at our cost.  We
    provided the appetizers and beverages.  The artist was very brazen
    about handing out her cards with each sale with the comment buy
    direct from her and save fifty percent. If you wish to negotiate with
    a retailer ask yourself, is this how you treat your customer?  It
    would be nice if you provided your own packaging, complete
    information on materials and enhancements, and marketing material
    such as a Bio. I suggest that if you do not like negotiating with a
    retailer/customer, try negotiating with a realtor and open your own
    business. 



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