While in the midst of coordinating the setup and management of the test track and outdoor exhibition area at the upcoming 2018 Interbike Trade Show in Reno, we are also working on a number of new stories that will appear in an industry magazine that will be available at the show for free.
We are working with the editorial staff from Cycle Industry News to bring a global perspective to the content. The angle is more about discussions on behind the scenes topics for manufacturer/distributors as well as retailers and how they can take the presented knowledge and turn it into an improved business practice and/or a revenue generator. One of the topics concentrates on advanced, patented U.S. technology within the world of 3D printing as a potential means of advanced product production, using advanced materials as a way to onshore some bicycle parts manufacturing. The article will focus on three industry-leading domestic companies. We will look at the comparative pricing of compact space and automation as opposed to large production facilities with volumes of lower cost labor. The other aspect is the flexibility of Just-In-Time manufacturing where personalization and customization can be included without grinding production to a halt. Another topic will look at expanding on the discussion of “retail flooring” which involves brands paying for prime space within a retail environment to guarantee a preferred showcase. It’s done everywhere from the grocery store with shelf placement to large department stores with entire brand departments. The term “Flooring” also has a financing aspect to where internal corporations extend terms to maintain an inventory presence. The motorcycle industry has done this for years. We will be looking at the business model behind this trend as well as we will speak to third-party “Factoring” groups to understand the cost for even smaller distributors to offer this service. I would love to hear from any of you regarding your opinions on these topics and any known tidbits you think we should cover. Also, any other B2B topics that we should look at, particularly in this time of potential tariff penalties.
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