Group Purchase Questions
I just read this thread, and it looks like a recap of the way we like to handle Group Purchases would be helpful:
Group Purchases (defined as a special that has been negotiated with a Vendor by a TDR Member; the TDR Member remains a contact through the life of the Group Purchase):
6. 6. Any TDR member wishing to set up a group purchase, please contact a member of the TDR staff directly to discuss the guidelines in advance of posting a Classified Ad. A group purchase must clearly state a start date and an end date. Its terms must be specific. It must include the company's name and company contact information (minimally a name and telephone number). Your name MUST be included in the Group Purchase as a coordination contact.
* * Note: I am not sure who is the official contact point on this group purchase, but I'm sure no one has contacted me. I would recommend that the official contact person contact multiple TDR Advertisers and discuss their interest/ability to offer a discount as part of a Group Purchase. * * *
6. 7 A TDR Staff Member will post a notice in the TDR Group Purchase and Vendor Promotion Forum outlining the specific terms of the Group Purchase. For example, "Joe Diesel (joedzl) is organizing a group purchase of Hella HID lighting kits for 2nd and 3rd Generation Dodge trucks. The period for discounted purchases runs from January 1, 2007 to February 1, 2007. Please contact Joe Diesel at (888) 888-8888 for additional information. Additionally, here is a direct link to this Group Purchase in the TDR Classified Ads. "
* * * Note: Since no one has contacted me about this Group Purchase, it has not been posted/promoted within the TDR Classified Ads. Again, I am the TDR contact person, and I can be reached (toll-free) at (888) 440-8371.
6. 8 Any posts gauging the interest in a Group Purchase will be removed. Historically, these have mutated into living advertisements and will no longer be allowed.
* * * Note: Technically, this thread should be removed. But there appears to be a level of interest among members, so I'll let it ride for a while. But ALL NEGOTIATIONS SHOULD OCCUR OFFLINE between the contact person and the vendor. Otherwise, these kinds of threads tend to turn ugly between supporting vendors, and that should be avoided at all costs. * * *
A Word of Caution: Remember the best deal is not always the cheapest deal. Considerations: If something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. A good strategy is to establish a relationship with a vendor(s) you trust. If you see a great vendor gotta-have-it, continue to work with the vendor that has previously earned your trust rather than chase after the Johnny-come-lately. Likely your established vendor of choice will bend to meet a competitive situation. Good suppliers and good relations are worth the courtesy of a phone call and your continued purchasing support. Good luck. It's a free-for-all jungle out there.
These guidelines can be referenced at: Turbo Diesel Register: The Number One Resource For Dodge Cummins Turbo Diesel Owners! - Website Guidelines".
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I am free to talk with anyone with questions or concerns at
rpatton@ix.netcom.com or (888) 440-8371.
Thanks, guys.
Robin
TDR Admin