EMDA member distributors and reps – vital links in the equipment marketing chain
In just a few weeks, everyone will be arriving in Orlando for the Fall Convention and Industry Showcase. The Distributor and Rep members of the Equipment Marketing & Distribution Association (EMDA) invite manufacturers to attend the Contact Session on Wednesday, October 26 at the Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista hotel.
The EMDA Contact Session was created in direct response to a request from manufacturers for more opportunities to meet with the distributors and reps. Designed to bring together manufacturers who are looking for distribution and the EMDA distributors and reps looking for those new products, the Contact Session can be especially useful for newer attendees looking to set up a North American distribution network.
The Contact Session can be used to determine mutual interest in setting up an appointment during the convention week. It’s designed to allow the exchange of basic information that will help distributors, reps and manufacturers determine if a manufacturer’s product will fit with the wholesalers’ current lines and the market potential of the product in their territory. If both parties agree, an appointment should be scheduled to discuss details and contractual arrangements. Appointments can be scheduled immediately following the Contact Session, or for later in the convention week.
Marketing channel decisions are among the most critical decisions facing an organization. The chosen channels intimately affect all other marketing decisions. The organization’s pricing depends on whether it uses mass merchandisers or independent reps or wholesaler-distributors. The firm’s sales force and advertising decisions depend on how much training and motivation the dealers need.
Which channel provides the best coverage of the target market sought? Which satisfies the buying requirements of the target market? Which channel maximizes revenue and minimizes cost? What marketing functions will be performed?
It’s not a question of whether the numerous functions are done, but of WHO does them. EMDA member reps and distributors can be instrumental in determining market potential for the product. They identify where product is most likely to sell; specify market segments; determine competitors; and can help establish a fair market price for product. Wholesalers can consolidate expenses of sales, inside sales, credit, shipping, billing and local delivery.
EMDA members are good partners in many ways. They operate in an atmosphere of competition from other distributors and reps placing them constantly under pressure to perform or close their doors. EMDA distributors and reps have been in business an average of 50 years. In fact, of the 10 original founding members, four are still in membership.
They have dedicated, experienced employees behind them who have their careers tied to the future of farm equipment wholesaling. They offer valuable services to customers and suppliers, and if these services did not exist, they would still be necessary.
EMDA members are confident of the role they play in distribution because they lower the total cost of distribution.
Manufacturers, wholesalers and dealers – are all vital links in the farm equipment marketing chain. And EMDA’s member distributors and reps are the value added link between manufacturer and dealer. Your link to profitability and marketing success.