by John Tullock

Are some manufacturers so desperate to move inventory that they are willing to sacrifice the good will of long term customers for any level of sales? It would appear so.

Aquarium Life Support Systems recently rejected an application from one "dealer"  who wanted to purchase products from a certain manufacturer. The rejection was based on the fact that the applicant has no physical location. Apparently, the applicant then contacted the manufacturer and was able to place an order. When Aquarium Life Support contacted the manufacturer to complain, we were told "If you don't want to sell to them, we will!"

Failing to support our brick and mortar customers would only have earned us ill will from people who regularly do business with us. Why would we trade that for a possible one-time-only sale to a person with little-to-no overhead, and no record of success in the business?

It defies logic that some manufacturers do not understand this simple, time-tested business principle. To ignore it suggests that some are truly desperate for sales. This, in turn, suggest that perhaps their business is off the rails for other reasons, too. We asked for a fuller explanation of this issue, and the company representative promised  a response. However, we have yet to hear from them. Another good public relations move.

Companies like Aquarium Life Support Systems and Sicce, who are committed to supporting the independent retailer, have the satisfaction of knowing our products are trusted by the pickiest critics on the planet: you, the aquarium industry professional. You help make us better, and you will continue to receive our unwavering support.