Ice Mobility Featured Cover of Wireless Dealer Magazine by Wireless Dealer Magazine

RESERVED FOR COVER INDEX US TENT 8,086,285 The Wireless of Things™ Groundbreaking Portfolio of Products, Technologies, & Supply Chain Winners Be Your Perfect Store. Explore a Mountain of Ideas Inside! DIRECTORY INSIDE!

www.Thecellphoneparts.com • Highest Quality Parts in The Industry • Dedicated Customer Service Support • LOW PRICES with AAA+ Quality iPhone 5S samsung Galaxy S4 The

Get 30%-50% more recovery on your second user equipment.

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Used, abused products with limited use and zero resale value.

LIKE NEW PRODUCTS INTO THIS!

A beautiful, sellable asset that can bring your business added revenue.

- THESE ARE ACTUAL PRODUCT PHOTOS SHOWING ACTUAL RECOVERIES PERFORMED BY TSSI -

Reduce Scrap Increase Recovery

We’re not just another 3PSP doing NTF screening and basic part swap. We’re a full service end-to-end solution with cutting edge services that bring real value to your recovery efforts. NTF screening for like -new units is not enough to ensure your competitive advantage. Maximize your recovery through our state of the art facilities. We’re a complete service partner with focused initiatives that contain your costs and maximize your retur n.

TSSI's reverse supply chain platform increases the speed at which products can be returned to market, while improving your economic recovery and extending product life.

VISIT US AT BOOTH #4474

Technology Solutions & Services, Inc. a reverse logistics company BB

We Provide Technology Solutions & Services

TSSI is a full service reverse logistics company. In addition to being a true service partner, we offer a wide variety of ass et recovery solutions specific to Mobile, IT and consumer electronics industries. We provide lean, low -cost solutions that allow you to focu s on your core business. Our team has over twenty years of experience dealing with…

• High Volume Product Refurbishment

• Processing & Sorting of Customer Return Merchandise

• Failure Analysis, Data Collection & Reporting

• Recalls, Reworks & Re-kitting

• EOL Disposition & Management

• Customized IT Solutions

• Scrap Management & Recycling

• Warehousing & Fulfillment

• Discreet Remarketing

• Excess Inventory Management

• Product De-branding, Re-branding & Relabeling

• Life Cycle Management of Service Parts

• In-house Engineering Support

• Custom Packaging Solutions

Nearly Half Million Square Feet to Meet Your Needs

TSSI understands how product refurbishment costs and recovery impact your revenue. Our team is dedicated to cultivating longterm client partnerships through tailoring our service offerings to evolve with clients' changing competitive needs. Our cons tant, clear focus on customer objectives maximizes the value of key service offerings while containing costs.

• Cutting Edge Test Systems

• Complete Failure Analysis

• Over 100 Skilled Technicians

• Class 100 & Class 1000 Clean Rooms

• Three HEPA Cosmetic Rooms

• Over 75 Cosmetic Technicians

• System Driven Cross-BOM Analysis

• In-house IT Development

• Fiber Optic Test Network

• Customized SFIS Developed In -house

SCRATCHED

• Customized Reporting

• Systematically Controlled Process Flows

• Focused Reuse Initiatives

• Environmentally Sound Recycling

• Complete Data Transparency

free:

A true, revenue maximizing, lowcost solution with real results. Focused Initiatives That Contain Costs & Provide Our Customers With a Fast Return -to-Market Advantage Reverse Logistics Specialists Peter Skuba Ken Gill (805) 630-7214 (661) 310-4137 pskuba@tssius.com kgill@tssius.com TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS & SERVICES, INC.

ISO 9001:2008 / ISO 14001:2004 / C-TPAT / MS-TPI

Los Angeles, CA - Mexicali, Mexico - Juarez, Mexico - Calexico, CA - El Paso, TX Call us toll

866-447-6872 or visit our website: www.tssius.com

GLASS RECOVERY

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22 11

IN WIRE LESS IS COMING.

THE NEXT BIG THING

Introducing UVA Mobile (you-vah!), a new kind of wireless service provider with a new kind of approach. Whether you’re a family, business or individual, now you can customize your wireless service to match your exact needs and budget. Share Talk, Text & Data across multiple lines on a single account, allocate who gets what, how much and when they can use it! UVA Mobile is putting “you” in control.

To become a dealer or distributor, visit uvamobile.com 14

To become a dealer or distributor, visit UVAmobile.com The Perfect Plan, Designed By You. uvamobile.com Flexible Sharing Made Simple Bring Your GSM or CDMA Phone Plans Customizable to Your Needs Have Connections, Not Contracts

Launch your own smartphone app and provide your

1. Prepaid International Calls 2. International

Callture can help you launch your own smartphone app so you can improve your service offering, increase your customer retention and solidify your branding.

The new app will have your logo and links to your web site. You will be also able to setup promotions for downloads and friend referrals. Callture will perform the entire project implementation until is successfully uploaded on the Apple App Store and Android Google Pay.

app + multiservice retail portal

You can also setup your stores with your own private-label retail portal, allowing them to sell multiple services, including prepaid international calls, international mobile recharge and US prepaid wireless recharge.

With our platform, you can enable your storeowners to receive commissions, residuals, rebates and/or bonuses. Our payment gateway will let you receive card payments directly to your bank account from storeowners and end-users.

The wide range of detailed and summary reports, available in your new retail portal, allows your customers to get instant information on sales, earnings, commission details, payments and account statements.

To learn more email us at platform@callture.com or call 1 800 566 7170

your customers

3. US Wireless Top Ups

with: International Mobile Top Ups

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Wireless Dealer Magazine Staff

Wirless Dealer Magazine.com 1-800-862-2609

CEO & Publisher | Kathy Katcher Kathy@WirelessDealerMagazine.com

COO | Laurette Veres Laurette@WirelessDealerMagazine.com

CMO | Michelle James Michelle@WirelessDealerMagazine.com

Art Director | Thomas Vela Thomas@WirelessDealerMagazine.com

Danna Love | Sales Account Manager danna@WirelessDealerPublication.com

Greg Smart | Sales Account Manager greg@ WirelessDealerPublication.com

Advertising & Sales Deputy | Donna Early Donna@WirelessDealerMagazine.com

Research Analyst | Lydia Taylor Lydia@WirelessDealerMagazine.com

WDM News Anchor | Chelsea Rogers Chelsea@WirelessDealerMagazine.com

Director of Finance | Jessica Hiatt Jessica@WirelessDealerMagazine.com

Contributing Authors & Writers Yuval Atiya Moshe Agive

Tony Baker

Danielle Cassagnol Jonathan Marashlian Sondra Sneed Laurette Veres

Wireless Dealer Magazine Headquarters Houston, Texas

For advertising or subscription inquiries, please call toll free 1 (800) 862-2609 or visit WirelessDealerMagazine.com

Wireless Dealer Magazine is published quarterly as an independent, wireless industry publication in Houston, Texas. Written materials and requests may be mailed to: Wireless Dealer Magazine 1217 Prince Street, Houston, TX 77008 [not responsible for any unsolicited materials] For advertising or subscription inquiries, please call toll free 1 (800) 862-2609 or visit WirelessDealerMagazine.com

Letter from the COO:

Dear Readers,

There are several important factors that go into being prepared for the big Holiday push. Obviously, having the right inventory at the right time is critical. We hope you find some of the products in this issue’s gadget guide intriguing as you plan your next 90 days of inventory.

Creating a marketing plan now, if you haven’t already done so, is paramount. Look around your store. Does it tell a powerful silent story for a new customer? Do you wow your regular customers with reasons to come back? Are you planning for holiday signage outside your store? What does your big picture success look like this year? Now would be a good time to explore what you can do to impact your bottom line for the balance of 2014.

This holiday season, we suggest selecting a few marquis products in multiple categories at multiple price points – give your customer options, people are empowered by options – and create a campaign around choice. Let your customers choose their story. Then, instead of throwing them in a boring bag, offer a nice gift box ala Tiffany & Co.®! Who isn’t proud to give a gorgeous boxed gift they just picked up on their way to an office party or effortlessly grabbed on a shopping trip during their lunch hour? Simply making the experience ‘special’ and less transactional this holiday might make the difference in your season.

Black Friday is in 12 weeks. Are you ready?

Happy selling,

Laurette Veres COO, Wireless Dealer Magazine

I ndependent R etail Buyers of Cellula r, Elec tronics and Audi o

COVER FEATURE - ICE Mobility | p. 73 ~ 78

Solutions | p. 135 ~ 137

eTech Parts | p. 85 ~ 90

B-Stock

Maya Cellular Parts | p. 93 ~ 98

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CEA | p. 197 ~ 203

Quality Repair Parts

p. 191

194

Sourcely | p. 167 ~ 169

Editorial Index W D M

Phone Doctor | p. 103 ~ 105

Editorial Index

Unirex Memory | p. 171 ~ 172 Dywired | p. 144 Looq | p. 195 Lunex Telcom | p. 68

Wearable Technology | p. 121 ~ 129

TurtleCell | p. 141

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Visivity | p. 212 ~ 214

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Device Repair, No Contract Wireless & YOU

by Don Hendrickson, VP Sales, Red Pocket Mobile

As ‘No Contract’ wireless plans go mainstream, consumer demand for device repair is skyrocketing. With fewer customers opting to subsidize their phone in exchange for lower monthly service bills, retailers can cash in on device repair while meeting their customer’s evolving wireless needs.

Wireless operators are delivering tremendous value to customers nowadays. In an incredibly short period of time, the cost of monthly ‘Unlimited Talk & Text’ wireless service has plummeted from over $100 to below $40. Red Pocket Mobile, for one, offers rate plans to fit every user, from just $10 per month to weekly plans to unlimited everything for the power user at under $60 per month.

No Contract wireless plans play a large role in this service-pricing decline. When the wireless operator does not need to subsidize a device over 24 months by including that financing cost in the customer’s monthly wireless bill, the customer can realize an immediate benefit.

But as No Contract wireless plans become more and more typical, consumers have a much greater incentive to hang on to their device. Let’s face it - these smartphones are expensive. And when the true cost of the device is no longer masked by the subsidy from a two-year contract, consumers will often prefer to keep the phone they have for as long as possible, or look to upgrade to a refurbished device to take advantage of the lower cost.

That’s why device repair is a big business that’s not just for large refurbishing houses anymore. With the increased demand from consumers for longer life from

their phone, and for lower-priced refurbished phone options, repairing your customer’s handset is becoming a critical part of a retail storefront’s service offering.

It is more important than ever to keep your customers coming back to you for things like plan upgrades, accessories, add-ons and of course, handset issues. If you send your customer somewhere else to get his or her phone fixed, your competitor may take them away forever.

Fortunately, there are more tools than ever in the market to help wireless dealers get involved in device repair. Even being able to accomplish some very basic Level 1 phone repairs in-store can generate a new profit channel while driving additional activations.

At Red Pocket, we frequently see iconic devices like the iPhone 4 given a second life as they activate for the first time on the Red Pocket network after being refurbished or repaired by the retailer in-store. And this second life is often not the last stop for these high-quality, highly demanded devices.

These great phones often continue to move downstream through several additional users’ life spans as their original owners upgrade. Meanwhile, the device, now resold at a fraction of its original cost, continues to generate new Red Pocket activations as it passes down from user to user over time.

Because Red Pocket Mobile supports all four of the country’s major wireless networks, many of our best retailer partners couple our service with device repair across a broad range of phones to offer a complete, one-stop-shop solution that customers love.

The opportunity is huge. But you can’t win if you don’t play - so get in the game! Please contact me at http://dealers.goredpocket.com and I would be delighted to discuss with you how Red Pocket Mobile and device repair can transform your business.

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has a detrimental effect to the repair shops’ bottom line and longevity can be seen in a common situation where a complaining customer requires a ‘re-repair’ to a previous repair of the phone again once it is noticed that the parts previously used are defective and inferior. As mentioned, the customer will usually notice that the new screen’s LCD is not as bright as the original screen, the screen doesn’t fit flush, and/ or the digitizer has dead spots.

Your Brand. Your Industry. Your EXPO.

mind that the sellers of these parts are operating on extremely low single-digit margins and will do whatever it takes to refuse a return. In fact, most of our clients embrace the fact that our company offers hassle-free returns on defective products. (We proudly boast an industry-low defective rate of 1%.)

loses the cost of the first part installed.

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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Produced by 30

A special thank you to all our partners, presenting sponsors, exhibitors and supporting sponsors for your dedication in making the 2014 Wireless Repair EXPO a great success.

The “A Grade” Screen - Slightly better than Grade B, the Grade A screens often have a defective rate of about 25%. Defects on Grade A screens include: isolated dead spots on the digitizer, dead pixels and severe blue and yellow blemish spots on the LCD. You may also notice that many of the screens in the Grade A category do not fit flush on the device as the original part did.

partners and sponsors

eTech Parts

The “AA Grade” Screen - This is the most commonly sold screen on eBay, Amazon or any other high-volume online retailer (This grade of screen is further discussed in the next section of this article). The Grade AA screens have a defective rate of 12% or more. The most noticeable defect on Grade AA screens is in the quality of the LCD. Grade AA screens have a noticeable blue or yellow tint. Many of the screens in this category will not fit perfectly flush onto the device.

We invite you to meet the players paving the way in wireless repair!

Bellagio Hospitality Suite

As the nation’s gold standard and leading supplier of parts and tools for the wireless repair industry, eTech Parts is proud to partner with Wireless Dealer Magazine and CTIA as the premiere sponsor of the first-ever Wireless Repair Expo! Along with the highest quality parts and tools in the industry, eTech Parts offers simple solutions and personalized services to help business owners achieve results and find success in the wireless repair industry. Since opening in 2008, eTech Parts has become a leading advocate and parts provider for thousands of repair shops worldwide. For more information and to learn more about how eTech Parts can help you get started in repair, visit etechparts.com.

Best Soldering School Meeting Room #3609

The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers Without a doubt most parts used in the industry by repair shops are obtained through high-volume retailers such as eBay and Amazon. These are typically the “AA Grade” screens that we explored above. The reason is quite elementary. Businesses will flock to where they can obtain the cheapest parts. In fact, virtually all of our customers were buying from such high volume retailers prior to partnering with us. However, new entrants to the industry, as well as the more versed repair shops still continue to purchase through high-volume retailers. Their mindset is that lower priced parts equates to higher profit margins. Although this equation is generally true, it is far from complete. The “lower part cost = higher margins” approach does not take into consideration the massive hits that a repair shop’s bottom line takes due to the use of such inferior parts. Let’s explore why.

BEST is an IPC Master Certification Solder Training Center offering Instructor and Operator courses for IPC-A-610, IPC J-STD-001, IPC-A-600, IPC/WHMA-A-620, and IPC 7711/7721 as well as customized classes to meet your specific standard or criteria. Their IPC Training Division employs some of the most experienced instructors in the industry. They offer customized classes for SMT, Advanced SMT, and BGA Rework classes on site at your facility or at their headquarters near Chicago. They offer a Mobile Training Center that contains all the materials for the training. All classes are taught by instructors who not only know the material, but have also performed the techniques thousands of times on customers’ boards to prove their “real life” effectiveness and reliability. For more information visit Solder.net.

The “AAA Grade” Screen - The highest quality replacement screen available is the AAA grade quality. This quality is usually flawless with no dead spots, dead pixels or discoloration on the LCD. The brightness of the LCD is comparable to an original OEM part. These screens fit perfectly flush on the device. This grade has a low defective rate of about 1-2%.

Cellular Repair School Meeting Room #3610

We have heard countless stories from our clients on how the use of parts obtained from high-volume retailers severely tarnished their businesses because of the bad reputation that their shops received as a result from using these parts. This makes sense given the fact that many repair shops rely heavily on word-of-mouth references for future business. Additionally, many customers seeking to repair their phones read online reviews of repair shops and reviews that criticize a shop on the basis of their use of lower quality parts. Poor reputations is very hard to overcome.

Cellular Repair School was founded for the simple purpose of creating a ground breaking, affordable training and support system to individuals aspiring to excel in the cellular phone and mobile device repair industries. Their mission is to elevate entrepreneurs to levels unattainable on their own and foster a network of like-minded business owners helping each other to succeed by cultivating a unique culture and experience.

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

At Cellular Repair Schools, you learn not only technical skills, but also the skills to help you drive more profit directly to the bottom line! Their industry connections help provide an “Insider’s Track” to accelerate your business growth and resources. CellularRepairSchool.com

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partners and sponsors

Phone Surgeons

Phone Surgeons’ goal is simple… to become “The most trusted brand in smartphone repair” on the planet. Phone Surgeons® is building a global network of trusted Emergency Mobile Technicians. The Phone Surgeons® community, culture and strategic partnerships delivers an experience and brand that resonates with consumers.

Phone Surgeons has a unique multifaceted distribution model that presents growth opportunities for independent self-employed technicians, large retailers as well as single and multi-unit franchise operators. Additionally, a revolutionary limited partnership model for qualified individuals will be launched at CTIA 2014.

If you’re looking to get into the phone repair business, or already in the repair business and looking to grow — you need to talk to Phone Surgeons®.

Visivity

Booth #1458

Booth #4676

Visivity is a cloud-based P.O.S. system (and other technical mumbo-jumbo) designed specifically for the unique and complex needs of the mobile phone and device repair business.

The better screens of screens include: isolated dead pixels and severe on the LCD. You may screens in the Grade the device as the original Amazon or any other (This grade of screen section of this article). a defective rate of 12% defect on Grade AA LCD. Grade AA screens yellow tint. Many of not fit perfectly flush

Visivity is an investment in efficiency and productivity, which in turn, raises the profit margins of your business and ensures it will continue to thrive, strive, and survive in an ultra-competitive environment. For more information about Visivity, visit visivity.com.

The “AAA Grade” Screen replacement screen

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

This quality is usually pixels or discoloration of the LCD is comparable These screens fit perfectly grade has a low defective

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partners and sponsors

Tech Medic

Experience counts. At TechMedic, their staff boasts decades of experience in the wireless device industry and years of experience assembling, fixing, and repairing electronic devices. This is no fly-by-night operation. Their staff has been in the industry for nearly two decades. If it’s a cutting-edge electronic device, chances are they have worked with it. Techmedic.com

Express Mobile

Express Mobile Repair was founded in 2010 to satisfy a growing demand for device repair rather than replacement. From the beginning they have always strived to find OEM quality parts and perform factory quality repairs. They have since expanded and now offer options for repair, trade-in and purchase of a replacement device. The team at Express Mobile knows that customers are what keep them in business and do everything they can to create the best customer experience by offering some of the lowest prices, fastest repairs and best warranties in the business!

Quality Repair Parts

QualityRepairParts is a leading wholesale supplier of mobile device components in North America. With 1000+ repair shops and technicians in the U.S. turning to them for their repair parts needs, promising the highest quality parts at the most competitive wholesale prices is their mission. It’s not just products that make them an industry leader. Perhaps even more important is their client support and service. When you choose QualityRepairParts as your supplier, you will immediately realize the value that is added to your business by having access to our knowledgeable team. Whether you own a chain of repair centers or are just starting out in the booming mobile device repair industry, they are here for you. Call (888) 501-9527 to find out how they can improve your business!

The technician will have to replace the part in hopes that the next screen he installs does not have the same issues. Alternatively, the technician may be successful in fighting off the need to ‘re-repair’ the device, thus, leaving the customer frustrated, unhappy and ultimately resulting in a bad experience that customers tells everyone they know. A poor reputation for terrible service and inferior parts that your shop provided will keep you from future business. If the technician decides to re-repair the phone and change the screen for the second time, they also lose; the shop loses time and also potentially loses the cost of the first part installed.

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality “AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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A special thank you to all our partners, presenting sponsors, exhibitors and supporting sponsors for your dedication in making the 2014 Wireless Repair EXPO a great success.

The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

We invite you to meet the players paving the way in wireless repair!

partners and sponsors

eTech Parts

Best Soldering School

Bellagio Hospitality Suite

Meeting Room #3609

Without a doubt most parts used in the industry by repair shops are obtained through high-volume retailers such as eBay and Amazon. These are typically the “AA Grade” screens that we explored above. The reason is quite elementary. Businesses will flock to where they can obtain the cheapest parts. In fact, virtually all of our customers were buying from such high volume retailers prior to partnering with us. However, new entrants to the industry, as well as the more versed repair shops still continue to purchase through high-volume retailers. Their mindset is that lower priced parts equates to higher profit margins. Although this equation is generally true, it is far from complete. The “lower part cost = higher margins” approach does not take into consideration the massive hits that a repair shop’s bottom line takes due to the use of such inferior parts. Let’s explore why.

Cellular Repair School

Meeting Room #3610

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

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partners and sponsors

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality

Red Pocket Mobile is a new kind of wireless company. They offer contract-free mobile phone and Internet service on the top four wireless networks in the nation. With Red Pocket’s ‘”Bring Your Own Device” starter kits sold in Target, Fry’s Electronics, and in thousands of other fine retailers across the country, anyone with a compatible phone can quickly switch it to Red Pocket Mobile, keep the same phone number, get the same wireless coverage and save money. Join Red Pocket Mobile! Awarded an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau®, they place tremendous value on their distributors as partners in their success. GoRedPocket.com

Phone Doctors Booth #4676

The mobile device repair industry is a fast growing market with incredible projected growth in the years to come. PHONE DOCTORS® is ready to expand, and stand out in the crowd. With over 11 years of experience, and over 1 million transactions later, it is safe to say with confidence, they are here to stay!

They are looking for franchisees who love people, and are excited about joining the strongest brand in the repair industry. For information on becoming a franchisee, please visit: phonedoctors.com/franchise/, and drop by their booth #4676 in the Wireless Repair EXPO pavilion onsite during CTIA2014. #phonedoctors

LCDcycle

Booth #4075

LCDcycle is one of the fastest growing wholesale parts distributors in the nation. With new distribution centers opening nationwide, LCDcycle is committed to getting you parts, as fast as possible, for as little as possible. LCDcycle started as a small repair shop chain, so they know the needs of a repair shop owner. LCDcycle is known for their no-hassle lifetime return policy, which is unheard of in the industry. Give them a call at 972-234-4555 and check out their competitive prices on Apple and Samsung parts.

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

“AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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Red Pocket Mobile Booth #752, #3875

The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

exhibitors

Apple N Berry

AllPRO Distributing

Booth #4175

The better screens of screens include: isolated dead pixels and severe on the LCD. You may screens in the Grade the device as the original

ApplenBerry, LLC is a global distributor of replacement components for Apple, Samsung and other top brand mobile devices. They are the Bay Area’s leading parts supplier and contract manufacturer for some of the top names in the industry. Need custom components? They source from trusted partners and can manufacture custom components to your specifications. Need screens? Now get wholesale pricing and deep quantity discounts on repair parts and replacement screens for iPhone, iPad, iPod, Galaxy, Note, and other popular devices. Call 800-859-7816 and they’ll cater to your needs for value and quality components.

CVE Group

Amazon or any other

Booth #832, #4472

Established in 2000, All Pro Distributing is a trusted value-added supplier of cellular handsets, accessories, and service parts. As an authorized distributor for Samsung, Motorola and LG, they offer customers a complete solution for their wireless needs, by providing an extensive range of products at competitive prices and the reliability required to achieve their goals and increase profits. Their team works to ensure that both customers and vendors feel listened to and respected, throughout their experience. AllPROdist.com

(This grade of screen section of this article). a defective rate of 12% defect on Grade AA LCD. Grade AA screens yellow tint. Many of not fit perfectly flush

Booth #4469

CVE Group are the return / refurbish / repair specialists group behind the brand. For over 20 years, CVE Group, Inc. has been serving the ever-growing consumer products industry. As a leading, large scale reverse logistics provider, they strive to deliver unsurpassed quality and support to manufacturers and their products. While headquartered in Riverdale, New Jersey, just a short distance from New York City and close to the corporate offices of many companies within the electronics industry, CVE Group also has national receiving centers in Allen, Plano and Fort Worth, Texas. Throughout the years, their facilities have processed, repaired, and refurbished millions upon millions of consumer products. They specialize in consumer electronics, including audio, video, and telecommunications, and have vast experience with other types of consumer products as well. CVEUSA.com

The “AAA Grade” Screen replacement screen

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

This quality is usually pixels or discoloration of the LCD is comparable These screens fit perfectly grade has a low defective

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PMS 308 PMS 287 PMS 549 PMS 424 PMS Cool Grey 3 W D M

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The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

exhibitors

Apple N Berry

AllPRO Distributing

Booth #832, #4472

CVE Group

Booth

#4469

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

Booth #4175

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PMS 308 PMS 287 PMS 549 PMS 424 PMS Cool Grey 3 43

exhibitors

ETrade Supply Booth #4576

With operations in the United States, China and Hong Kong, ETrade Supply International Ltd is a global, vertically integrated distributor for cell phone and tablet parts. They specialize in post-sales consumer electronics solutions and services, including new parts, LCM repair, housing repainting, and inventory solutions. ETrade Supply maintains facilities dedicated to OEM-new, OEM-reclaimed, and contract production of consumer electronics repair parts. The foundation of their success rests upon their tireless dedication to vital and current industry knowledge. Maintaining a cutting edge understanding of the consumer electronics’ supply, engineering, and re-manufacturing form the core of what they do and who they are.

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality

Global Direct Parts Booth #4473

Global Direct Parts focuses on supply, so you can focus on repair. That’s their motto and mission. With an industry leading 99% success rate on their parts, Global Direct Parts allows their customers to buy, repair, and warranty with confidence. They buy the mobile devices for which they supply parts, allowing them to test, represent and fulfill parts accurately, while servicing customers, during those head-scratching moments. They’re committed to being ethically and legally responsible and work to weed out the counterfeit parts, which all too often plague this industry. Global Direct Parts service repair shops, refurbishers and educational institutions. They test and ship all parts from their location in San Antonio, Texas. Global Direct Parts is here to help! Call 210-444-9469 or email sales@globaldirectparts.com.

iDistribute Booth #4076

iDistribute is a mobile device replacement parts distributor. They pride themselves on exceptional and personable customer service. What started out as a retail repair operation has evolved into a company that is able to meet and exceed customers’ needs, in both a timely and effective manner. They offer the low markups and long warranty on top quality products. Coupled with their almost 24/7 availability, there is no wonder they are the one of the fastest growing companies in this industry. IDistributeLLC.com

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

“AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

exhibitors

iDropped

iDropped is an emerging leader in the mobile device repair industry. The foundation of the company is routed in the iDropped system training platform that provides a core foundation in diagnostics, troubleshooting, and repair procedures of today’s most popular mobile devices. With room for higher degrees of certification, iDropped technicians continue to learn, train and grow. Building off its foundation, the iDropped brand has a loyal following among customers, due to their ability to source quality parts and provide superior customer service. In addition they have sparked the interest of investors in the industry with its iDropped Repair Center platform. Quality control service waivers, a fully customizable, pre-loaded point of sale system, and comprehensive operations manual make day-to-day operations a breeze. Combine this with their modern storefront design, efficient kiosks’ layouts, and large assortment of the industry’s most popular accessory brands has made iDropped the best place for customers to shop and franchisees to grow. iDropped.com

I Refurbish LCD Booth #4476

Become an iPhone Refurbishing Technician (plus tools and equipment) in 5 Full Days on: iPhone 4, 4s, 5, 5c, 5s, Samsung, learn business operations, proven marketing system, and enjoy unlimited ongoing after-class support.

• State of the art training facility

• Hands-on Classes to gain immediate confidence doing repairs

• Learn by using our industry leading tools & equipment

• Free on-going technical support after training

• Access to reputable wholesale parts suppliers

• All tools and equipment needed for your refurbishing business

• Detailed breakdown of inventory and operation startup costs

For more information call (818) 231-7541 or visit iRefurbishLCD.com.

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

Booth #3873

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LCD Direct Inc.

Booth #4274

Welcome to LCD Direct Inc., an LCD recycling company that buys used/cracked Samsung Galaxy S3, S4, S5, Note 2 and Note 3 LCD and Smart Phones. They pay top dollar for these used products. Why trash it when you can “cash it”? They also provide a low price cracked glass refinish service for Samsung LCD series. The turnaround time for their refinishing services is lightning fast, and they guarantee quality. LCDDirectInc.com

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality

Maya Networks Booth #4375

Maya Network is dedicated exclusively to B2B sales and service of replacements parts for tablets and smartphones. Their main focus is quality and customer service, and, although not always the cheapest around town, they always maintain and provide this standard of great quality of product and excellent customer service. All orders are placed on our website 24/7, and they ship all over the USA with UPS and FedEx. Meet them at CTIA 2014 Booth #4375 to hear more on how they operate and to find out if they are a good fit for your repair shop needs. MayaCellularParts.com

MCE Systems Booth #4572

With more than 10,000 installations in over 30 countries, MCE Systems is a global leader in Mobile Customer On-boarding and Repair/Return Avoidance, providing carriers and wireless dealers with advanced in-store/retail services for mobile devices. MCE solutions process over 1.5 million transactions per month globally, with outstanding success in Repair/Return Avoidance, dramatically improving customer satisfaction, while reducing costs for providers. MCE enables mobile customer services including Content/Media Transfer between devices, Automated Device Trade-In, Device Health-Check Diagnostics, Data WIPE, and more. MCE’s North American and UK business operations are based in Toronto, Canada. mce-sys.com

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

“AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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LCD DIRECT INC 48

» Dedicated professional account manager for each customer

» Drop shipments directly from China (China prices/USA service)

» Credit on RMA and broken screen recycling within 24 hours

The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

exhibitors

Mobile Defenders Booth #4574

Mobile Defenders is a leading wholesale distributor for mobile device replacement parts, tools, and accessories. With 5 years experience in the cell phone repair industry, they pride themselves in outstanding customer service and providing only the highest quality parts (for Apple, Samsung, Motorola, and many more). They also have their own custom branded line of accessories and tools targeted at the average cell phone repair store. Because Mobile Defenders owns and operates a chain of cell phone repair stores, in addition to the distribution operation, they provide a first-hand knowledge and exceptional level of tech support. Mobiledefenders.com

QWireless Solutions Booth #4374, #5171

In every industry there are companies who are considered innovators and whose values shine in every aspect of their business. Q Wireless Solutions is one of these companies, and for over two years, they have been integral to the growth of the wireless repair industry. Q Wireless Solutions prides itself on not just being another trading company; Q Wireless Solutions is a full service solutions-based partner for mobile repair businesses. Their mandate is to help wireless dealers throughout USA, Canada, Mexico, and abroad to procure the highest quality products for their customers, while reducing overall returns and increasing customer satisfaction. Save time and money by adding some Q in your Repair. To find out more visit www.QWirelessSolutions.com

RepairQ Booth #4575

RepairQ is a cloud-¬based POS system designed specifically for the high-tech repair industry, tracking all of your repairs, inventory, employees, and business metrics in one innovative application. Developed and supported solely by Brickwire and its affiliates, they are a team of business strategists and web experts who specialize in building custom web applications. RepairQ is a result of over a decade of experience in developing custom web applications and several years of consulting, for the cell phone repair industry. Now, two years after its commercial release, RepairQ is growing fast, and they aim to become the industry standard. RepairQ.io

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

The “AAA Grade” Screen replacement screen This quality is usually pixels or discoloration of the LCD is comparable These screens fit perfectly grade has a low defective

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Products & Solutions

You Need From a Partner You Can Trust

exhibitors

Mobile Defenders

QWireless Solutions

RepairQ

Q Wireless Solutions prides itself on not just being another trading company; Q Wireless Solutions is a full service solutions-based partner for mobile repair businesses. Their mandate is to help wireless dealers throughout USA, Canada, Mexico, and abroad to procure the highest quality products for their customers, while reducing overall returns and increasing customer satisfaction. Save time and money by adding some Q in your Repair. To find out more visit www.QWirelessSolutions.com

Booth #4575

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

TESSCO at CTIA Wireless Repair Expo, Booth #4573 Products | Brands | Training | Merchandising | Inventory Management | Dedicated Support Memory & Data Audio & Music Batteries, Chargers & Cables Smart Accessories Tools & Supplies Cases & Protection Hands-Free Products

of retailers choose to do business with TESSCO. www.tessco.com/go/retail

Booth

Visit

Learn why thousands

#4574

Booth #4374, #5171

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exhibitors

TESSCO

Meeting Rooms #301 & 302, Booth #4573

TESSCO Technologies (NASDAQ: TESS) is an industry-leading supplier of products and services for wireless and consumer technology retailers. Known for the broadest portfolio in the market, including a robust selection of mobile device accessories, and tools and supplies for cell phone repair, TESSCO provides value to retailers with enhanced services to manage inventory flow, to improve rep sales performance, and to increase sell-through. Retailers rely on TESSCO for:

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality

• Recommendations on the right mix of products and brands

• Product availability – to support device launches and inventory replenishment

• Merchandising strategies for effective display techniques

• Education and training, including store-level training to enhance sales performance

• Sell-through strategies and promotions

Tessco.com

The Repair Depot was established early 2012 in Stillwater, Oklahoma to be a central provider for electronic repairs for our insurance partners. It has quickly grown from handling a few nearby regions to covering a majority of the Midwest, along with some East and West coast locations. With a fine team of Quality Technicians who can accurately diagnose and repair all issues on a multitude of devices and its strong support staff, The Repair Depot strives to provide the highest quality of service to all of our covered regions and looks to continue expanding. Additionally The Repair Depot is the primary repair facility for the largest insurance provider for electronic devices. TheRepairDepot.com

TNF Distribution Booth #4275

“AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

The founders of TNF Distribution have been in the cell phone industry for over 15 years. With over 80 retail cell phone repair locations in malls across the country, they distribute the highest quality repair parts for Apple and Samsung devices, which are all backed by a warranty. They also distribute all the tools necessary for all types of repairs. TNFdistribution.com

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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The Repair Depot Booth #4276

That’s the difference between C-Grade and A-Grade products.

LIKE NEW PRODUCTS INTO THIS! Get 30%-50% more

Used, abused products with limited use and zero resale value.

USED GOODS WE TURN THIS A beautiful, sellable asset that can bring your business added revenue.

Reduce Scrap—Increase Recovery

- THESE ARE ACTUAL PRODUCT PHOTOS SHOWING ACTUAL RECOVERIES PERFORMED BY TSSITSSI's reverse supply chain platform increases the speed at which products can be returned to market, while improving your economic recovery and extending product life.

second user equipment.

recovery

your

VISIT US AT BOOTH #4474

Technology Solutions & Services, Inc. a reverse logistics company 53

The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

exhibitors

Technology Solutions & Services, Inc. (TSSI) is a returns management company specializing in high-volume remanufacturing of in-warranty and out-of-warranty consumer electronics products. TSSI operates two low-cost Maquiladora factories just across the border in Mexico totaling over 400,000 square feet and three U.S. offices to serve clients. Each factory uses the latest testing technologies, making TSSI a frontrunner for IT, mobile, tablet and wireless networking service. In addition to test and repair, they emphasize focused cosmetic recovery processes that bring less-than-desirable products back to a like-new, sellable condition. Their goal is to provide clients with a cost-effective solution that facilitates maximum financial recovery. TSSIus.com

Wholesale Gadget Parts Booth #4673

Wholesale Gadget Parts, based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a distributor of electronic repair parts for cell phones, tablets, game systems, and more. Their customers appreciate the superior customer service experience they provide, while maintaining competitive pricing, high quality parts, a one-year hassle-free warranty, same-day shipping as late as 7:00 PM central time, a low out-of-stock rate, a generous return policy, a wide variety of parts, and the fact that they actually answer their phones. WholesaleGadgetParts.com

Worth Avenue Group Booth #4276

Worth Ave. Group specializes in insuring laptops, iPhones, iPads, tablets, and other electronic devices. For over 40 years, Worth Ave. Group and its affiliates have provided a sense of security for thousands of individuals nationwide. They view and understand the direct impact of technology in education and strive to foster that growth. Worth Ave. Group, a family owned business, approaches customer service in a small town style. Each policyholder is handled with the utmost respect allowing for pleasant interaction that allows all questions to be answered effectively, efficiently and kindly. Claims are handled in-house by our adjustors, assuring a hands-on operation to provide immediate processing. WorthAvenueGroup.com

The “AAA Grade” Screen replacement screen

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

This quality is usually pixels or discoloration of the LCD is comparable These screens fit perfectly grade has a low defective

TSSI

Booth #4474

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Worth Ave. Group Insurance Solutions for a d gital world W D M

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$ $ $ $$$$$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$$ $ $ $ $$$$$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$ Start Cashing Payroll, Tax Refunds and Government Benefit Checks. All funds are placed on a prepaid MasterCard. NO Check Cashing License Required NO CASH on hand needed NO Bank Bonds or Deposits Required Click to Learn More $ $ $ $$$$$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$$ $ $ $ $$$$$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$ $ $ $ $$$$$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$$ $ $ $ $$$$$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$ Cash Payroll & Government Checks! Now! All Approved Checks are 100% Guaranteed! Make a commission for each check cashed, along with ongoing residual income each time the card is used! Checks can also be loaded onto ANY bank issued debit/credit card, giving your customers immediate access to their funds! MIGRATE CUSTOMERS to other products... Attract and KEEP NEW CUSTOMERS Cash Checks 24/7 - Holidays - 365 days/year! 70% of Customers spend more money in store! LARGE INCOME POTENTIAL - No Daily Bank Deposits www.posatech.com ezcheckpay@posatech.com NO RISK, All Checks 100% Guaranteed Great Residual Income And Foot Traffic Builder Prepaid Cellular Minutes Bill Payment International Long Distance New Wireless Activations 59

W D M THE ORIGINAL INSTANT SPIFF MASTER WWW.MEGATELWIRELESS.COM VISIT US @ BOOTH # 1064 61 W D M

A LESSON FROM MEGATEL PREFUNDED VS. INSTANT SPIFF

MegaTel Wireless, the original Instant Spiff masteragent, turned up the heat on prepaid distributors since launching their instant spiff program early this year, a program and system to pay dealers their earned spiff at time of activation. As with all things popular, imitators quickly followed from their competitors.

How can you dispute it? They count on you not being able to reconcile it. We are upfront with our spiffs and in our business practice.”

Choosing the Right Phone Repair Parts Supplier:

How to Make the Right Choice and the Harsh Consequences of Failing to do so

“Our program has been so successful, we are thrilled to see others try to imitate it — because that means we are doing something right,” says A.J. Jamal, Director at MegaTel Wireless, “…we have skyrocketed to be the top master for Simple Mobile and the Tracfone suite.”

MegaTel Wireless has rocked the wireless prepaid distribution over the past year and continues to grow adding more to its lineup, recently expanding the product line of MVNOs and airtime to their instant spiff lineup.

By Jamil Hindi, president and founder of Quality Repair Parts

Prefunded SIMs have been around for a while, but recently many dealers have been confusing them with “instant spiff” due to all the advertising impersonating them. To help clarify, let’s look at the main differentiators between the two:

This article is directed at informing those currently in, or considering entering the growing phone repair industry about the variety of avenues in which a repair shop owner may pursue in obtaining repair parts.

#1- Can Activate Any Plan? Nope ABSOLUTLY!

#2- SIMs Expire? Yes NEVER

#3- Can Port-In Numbers? Nope ABSOLUTLY!

#4- SIM Price? Varies Due ONE PRICE to Plans FOR ALL

The ‘Un-official’ Grading System

In addition, MegaTel has continued to grow its field team expanding to the west coast and continues to hire local market managers in several states. Their philosophy of feet on the ground has been key in supporting and growing their dealers, giving the true “partner experience” to its dealer partners. With a heavy investment made this year in technology and support, MegaTel continues to disrupt the channel with surplus service and support, with a “dealer first” mentality.

There are a variety of different quality screens out in the marketplace that a repair shop can choose to use to perform their repairs. Below is a compilation, an unofficial however, accurate, list of the various qualities available and the attributes that they possess:

Another key driver has been MegaTel’s distributor (ISO) partner program, allowing distributors of all sizes to substantially compete and grow their agent base, leveraging MegaTel’s Instant Spiff and Technology platform.

The article will briefly introduce the grading system in which parts are classified by quality. I will then dive into the many different routes that the vast majority repair shops pursue in obtaining their parts and explain why not using the highestgrade parts serves an injustice to your customer and poses devastating effects to your business. Given the fact that the most popular repair performed by technicians is a screen repair and screens will constitute the majority of a repair shop’s inventory in terms of dollars invested, this article will specifically focus on replacement screens, which consists of a combination of the LCD and digitizer components.

Prefunded SIMs are locked into one rate plan, carry a higher price on the SIM (tying up cash flow), can expire at anytime by the distributor, and generally cannot be used for porting numbers. This is what makes them a lose-lose for wireless dealers. With the Instant Spiff portal from MegaTel, the SIM can be activated on any rate plan; SIMs do not expire, and activations are instant along with porting ability. Not to mention access to activate 8 different MVNOs and all wireless refills and top-ups.

“Your customer’s money in your pocket” says Bryan Ware, National Product Manager for MegaTel, “Other masters and distributors claim to pay you spiffs and even sometimes residuals, but how do you know you are getting it?

With its complete lineup of handsets, SIMS, activation and airtime processing, MegaTel has become one of the fastest growing distributors for the wireless and prepaid agent channel, surpassing most all of the oldest distributors in the marketplace this year.

Anyone can ship boxes. MegaTel provides solutions and support. n

The “B Grade” Screen - Quite arguably the lowest quality screen available in the market. This grade often has a defective rate of roughly 60%. Defects for Grade B screens include: multiple dead spots on the digitizer, stress marks, severe discoloration and dead pixels on the LCD. With most B grade screens, you will notice that the screens do not fit flush on the device as the original part did. You will also notice on B Grade screens that the LCD brightness is incredibly low. It would be similar to going to your phones settings and decreasing the brightness by 75%.

INSTANT PREFUNDED

SPIFF

To become a dealer–877.350.5999 www.megatelwireless.com

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The Only Tablet Based POS Designed for Wireless Stores Interested in making thousands in commissions? Become an Authorized Kaching Distributor Call Us Today (786) 336-6123 • 1-800-531-4796 • sales@kaching123.com Visit us at: http://kaching123.com Track commissions & spiffs Cloud based system. Unlimited data storage Kaching 123 is the cloud based register system you can manage from home or your mobile device! Built-in activation center Sell entire prepaid category (wireless & international recharge, bill payments, pinless, toll replenishment) Track multiple barcodes per item Unlimited customer & technical support Customer management tool Connect with us at CTIA Booth #3469 66

Large quantity of iPhone 5S Grade A Stock

Bulk lot of Galaxy S3 and S4 phones in as is condition

New Hot Products To The Prepaid Industry

Lunex Telecom, a nationwide leading prepaid telecom service provider with over 15,000 sales channels, is now launching two new lines of products- International Bill Pay (to Mexico, Dominican Republic, and El Salvador), and digital gift cards (e-gifts) of popular US, Mexico and Guatemala brands, through its partner services Miltec Platform. Lunex is known for its innovations in prepaid, o ering PIN-Less int'l calling and int'l/domestic mobile top-ups through their popular brand 1-ClicMAX™.

Imagine loved ones in Mexico, Domican Republic or El Salvador not having to spend time o from work to get into long lines downtown to pay their monthly bills anymore! Now your customers within the US can instantly pay their loved ones bills in those countries. Due to the fact that 75% of people in Mexico are unbanked, this presents an opportunity to an untapped market for many businesses wanting to bring new foot tra c and provide value added services to their immigrant customers.

E-gifts with many popular US, Mexico and Guatemala brands are now readily available via the 1-ClicMAX™ portal. Selling e-gifts is as easy as 1, 2, 3! Dealers simply select the requested brand (i.e. Home Depot, AMC, CVS, etc.), enter the recipient’s phone number, and push the sell button. The e-gift recipient receives an SMS with a barcode for redemption of their e-gift.

Lunex delivers some of the most innovative, cutting-edge products and services that will e ectively drive tra c direct to retailer locations, creating lasting customer loyalties. By utilizing Lunex Telecom’s all-in-one platform, businesses stand out from the competitors by o ering a sought after line of services. As you can see, their forward thinking products make retail locations a stopping point for customers!

Lunex prides itself with solid 24/7 customer service for more than 10 years (English, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese and Portugese (coming soon). They are headquartered in Duluth, GA., on the outskirts of Atlanta. If you are interested in new, hot selling products for your customers, call LunexTelecom today at 1-888-333-2404 or visit www.LunexTelecom.com.

BILLPAY

*BillMEX, BillPay and eGift’s platform are provided by Miltec Platform, Inc., actual transactions are conducted through Miltec’s licensed MBS business partners. Telecom Service Provided by:

* ...and many more! AES Mexico - Dominican Rep. - El Salvador ...and many more! eGIFT’s* USA - Mexico - Guatemala 68

Coming September 2014 www.surelinkmobile.com ® 69

purple box Dealers Wanted. Contact: dealer@surelink.info ® Competitive dealer compensation: residual commissions and SPIFFS. Attractive consumer pricing and packages drives traffic to your location. Professional sales, marketing and back-office customer support. Product training and marketing collateral provided. Surelink Mobile is a California Wireless LifeLine Product 70

Contact: 702-895-9300 Email: info@cellrepairtools.com Authorized Baku distributor.72

by WDM CEO KATHY KATCHER

Choosing the Right Phone Repair Parts Supplier:

How

to Make the

Right Choice and the Harsh Consequences of Failing to do so

By Jamil Hindi, president and founder of Quality Repair Parts

The ‘Un-official’ Grading System

INTERVIEW WITH

MIKE MOHR

CEO

OF ICE MOBILITY

WDM: For independent wireless retailers who may not be familiar, can you give us a brief overview of Ice Mobility?

ICE: My pleasure. Ice Mobility is one of only three distributors currently authorized by Verizon Wireless to sell devices to Verizon’s agents and retailers. So, as a starting point, we are a wireless distributor, but we are also much more. At our core, we are here to help all of our customers and partners succeed. We provide a variety of services beyond selling devices, like planning, procurement, marketing, and forward and reverse logistics. Our vision is to be more accessible, more transparent, more flexible and more willing to customize solutions to the specific needs of each customer. That’s why we’ve adopted the tag line “Wireless Distribution, Your Way.” Because it is about calibrating our entire business around operating the way each of our customers need us, not the other way around.

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WDM: Does the market need another distributor?

ICE: We certainly think so. Agents and retailers benefit directly from the services and focus that Ice Mobility brings to the market. Table stakes are offering competitive prices. And, Ice gives agents and retailers another source for devices and, importantly, another source for credit. All three of those benefits help agents and retailers keep product on their shelves, ensuring consumers are able to purchase the devices they need and want. It is also very clear that many Verizon agents and retailers can benefit from the shorter shipping times available from a distribution center that is west of the Rockies, as there was none even west of the Mississippi before Ice.

The “AA Grade” Screen - This is the most commonly sold screen on eBay, Amazon or any other high-volume online retailer (This grade of screen is further discussed in the next

Distribution Centers

Ice Mobility operates two Distribution Centers, including the first on the West Coast dedicated to Verizon products.

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WDM: How will Ice be different from other wireless distributors?

ICE: One big difference is the fact that we have a distribution center on the West Coast. But, that’s just the beginning. Because our total focus is on providing helping agents and retailers succeed, we will be doing many things differently. For example, we are also the only source for Verizon handsets with two distribution centers, one in Los Angeles and another just outside of Chicago. These two shipping points allows us to reach many more retail locations with low-cost ground shipping. It also enables us to have later cut-off times for same-day shipping of orders to more parts of the country. Both of those benefits allow agents and retailers to lower costs and get product when they need it. That’s just one example, but over the coming months you will see more.

WDM: Why the focus on Verizon Wireless?

The technician will have to replace the part in hopes that the next screen he installs does not have the same issues. Alternatively, the technician may be

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality “AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

ICE: Two reasons. First, the leadership of Ice, including myself, has a long and productive history with Verizon Wireless, going back 30 years. That history enables us and Verizon to build on the years of trust and respect that we have each earned with the other. Second, Verizon has a very robust indirect agent/retail channel, one that we are extremely familiar with. So, it made sense that this is where we could best lend our expertise and provide real value. And, of course, Verizon is a terrific company, and one we always have been proud to be associated with.

Retailer Benefits

Another Source for Devices at Competitive Prices

Access to Additional Credit

Later Cut-Off Times for Same-Day Shipping

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

Low-Cost Next-Day Ground Shipping to More of the Country

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WDM: Who is your customer: VZW, OEMs or Retailers?

ICE: The short answer is all of them. Or, more to the point, they are all our partners. We are all a part of an ecosystem that relies on each other. Our goal is to be the best possible partner for each of these crucial parties, and help all succeed. But, and this is important, we believe that agents and retailers are the key. If agents and retailers are not successful at the point-of-sale, then OEMs don’t get their phones sold and carriers don’t attract new subscribers or retain existing subscribers. On the other hand, if we can help agents and retailers thrive, then the rest of the channel thrives, too. That is why we believe our own success at Ice Mobility depends on helping agents and retailers succeed, and why so much of our focus will be dedicated to that.

“…as consumer costs come down, the need to be more efficient and in control of your business goes up. That is where we think Ice will help our customers and provide a lot of unique value.”

WDM: What has been the reaction so far?

ICE: Tremendous. More than 100 agents have already begun the process of becoming customers of Ice, representing many times that in store locations, which is just fantastic. But more rewarding are the personal notes of appreciation that we have received. We get the feeling that many agents and retailers are excited and that kind of validation is really motivating.

WDM: What is your biggest challenge?

ICE: Great question. Any time you start a company, there always are challenges around ramping up, hiring, etc. In our case, because of our ability to leverage past relationships, we are moving very quickly on those fronts. I think our biggest challenge now is just moving fast enough to meet the expectations we have set for ourselves and that agents and retailers want to see. It takes time to work out agreements with OEMs, get phones in, etc. You always want that to be faster, but it takes time to do it right.

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

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WDM: At a more personal level, Ice has two founders, how did that come about?

ICE: Yes, that’s right. Denise Gibson and I co-founded Ice Mobility. I was one of the first members of the Wireless Division Board of the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), the group that puts on the CES, but also does so much more to promote the entire consumer electronics industry. Denise and I were on the Wireless Division Board together for several years and each served as its Chair at different points. Through that process of helping the entire wireless industry grow, we developed a productive working relationship, and more importantly a real friendship and mutual respect. Last year, as the two of us began to talk more and more about the industry, we began to see an opportunity that we both wanted to pursue. The great thing is that we really complement each other in important ways and are on the same page about wanting to focus on agents and retailers, and setting up a company that they truly love to do business with. Her experience as a senior executive at Motorola and then as the co-founder and CEO of Brightstar US is invaluable to Ice and the industry.

WDM: Let’s end on a prognostication: When you look into the future, how do you see wireless retail changing over the next 2-3 years?

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality “AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

ICE: First let me tell you how it won’t change: wireless agents and retailers will continue to be a critical source for wireless phones and related devices. Mobile phones have become critical portals into every consumer’s world. People literally can’t leave their house without them. And, the thing is, they are getting more complicated and critical all of the time. That complication needs to be simplified and explained. That is where the sales associate at the local agent or retailer has an absolutely indispensable role. Now, with that said, this is the wireless industry, where everything constantly changes. But, I also think those changes mean a lot of opportunity. Many more products and many new types of products will be available to sell. Helping customers figure out which of these new connected products can further improve their life, how to sell them, and how to demonstrate them, these will be the new challenges. Customers have become pretty savvy about their mobile devices, but they will need to be shown the benefits of many of these new devices. The sales process is the same, but sales people are going to need to apply those skills to entirely new and unfamiliar products. And, as consumer costs come down, the need to be more efficient and in control of your business goes up. That is where we think Ice will help our customers and provide a lot of unique value. Those who can successfully navigate these paths will continue to thrive. But, if you think about it, due to the rapid change in this business, none of this is new, and all of this could have been said at any point in the last 20 years. For that reason, and because wireless retail is only getting more indispensable, I’m hugely bullish on its future. n

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

“At our core, we are here to help all of our customers and partners succeed.”

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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Premium Tools for Professional Techs

By WDM Staff

While exploring the profitability of repair at the Wireless Repair Expo, you probably heard multiple times that good replacement parts are an extremely important part of running a wireless repair business. There’s no questioning the importance of high quality replacement parts, but you won’t get far in wireless repair without the proper tools for the job. These two pieces of the puzzle are key to finding success in the wireless repair industry. Every repair technician needs premium tools they can depend on; tools that won’t break after a couple uses or strip screws during a repair job. We picked out seven of the most important tools for wireless repair to show you everything you’ll need to get a running start in repair. These tools are built to last and will save you time and money, ultimately making your job as a repair technician even easier.

Red Tape™

Red Tape™ adhesive is hands-down the number one choice of adhesive for technicians worldwide. Over the past year, Red Tape™ has taken off to become the topselling adhesive brand in the wireless repair industry. While there are several lesser quality double-sided adhesives making their way onto the market, not all red tape is created equally. Get your Red Tape™ from eTech Parts to experience the difference of up to 78° F higher temperature resistance and increased protection against humidity when compared to lower quality adhesives. The daily testimonials from members of the Repair Community say it all…

“Red Tape™ saved me from quitting iPad repairs!” –August L.

“I love Red Tape™. We use it on everything from computers to iPods, iPads, Samsung and other tablets. We purchase rolls and rolls of this stuff and always have it in stock. We highly recommend Red Tape™ to other technicians.” –Jessica Y.

“Red Tape™ pretty much holds my entire life together. I use it on everything. I haven’t tested it but I am pretty sure you could use it to build a house.” – Nicholas F.

While we’re not sure if it could hold an entire house together, you get the point: Red Tape™ from eTech Parts is the only way to go. These are real testimonials from real members of the Repair Community who truly can’t get enough Red Tape™!

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iSesamo

The iSesamo is truly unlike any other spudger or opening tool on the market. This tough and flexible tool nimbly pops open most modern small electronics casings with ease. The iSesamo features a springy steel blade with a smart tip design, and its plastic handle creates a no-slip grip for ultimate handling and utilization.

When asked what one iPhone repair tool they couldn’t live without, 70% of Repair Community respondents chose the trusty iSesamo. The iSesamo is one of the most useful tools on the market for iPhone repairs and a must-have for wireless repair technicians worldwide. Its high flexibility, no-slip grip and extreme strength make it a top choice for repair technicians everywhere.

All-in-One Wiha Multibit Driver

The All-in-One Wiha Multibit Driver was specially created with mobile repair technicians in mind. This specialty premium screwdriver includes every bit required to repair the latest iPhones, iPads, iPods and MacBooks and features the precision Wiha quality preferred by repair technicians worldwide. This ESD-safe tool can be found exclusively at eTech Parts; they hand picked all the driver bits included with the all-in-one Multibit Driver so technicians will have every screwdriver bit necessary for repairing iDevices. This is the perfect tool for mobile, on-the-go technicians who refuse to compromise quality for portability.

This all-in-one tool includes:

• Wiha 16 Piece, ESD Slotted, Phillips and Torx Micro Bit Set

• Slotted: 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0mm

• Phillips: #000, #00, #0, #1

• Torx: T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10, T15, T20

• Pentalobe: P1, P4

• Includes Pocket Clip

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gTool™ iCorner & Screen Jack

When the Repair Community finally got their hands on the gTool™ iCorner reshaping tool, we all knew it was going to change things. Reshaping the aluminum corners of iPad and iPhone back casings had always been a time-consuming challenge for technicians in the industry. Thanks to gTool™ we now have a simple and professional repair solution. Using the gTool™ iCorner, you can completely reshape and repair bent corners or sidewalls of iPad/iPhone back casings in under a minute.

The revolutionary gTool™ iCorner offers the perfect solution to a problem all repair technicians struggle with. These innovative tools were custom engineered and designed in South Africa, by repair technicians who were encountering the same issues other technicians were dealing with worldwide. By creating simple solutions to every day repair problems, gTool™ has quickly become the world’s most innovative manufacturer of wireless repair tools.

Constant innovation from gTool™ manufacturers ensures future wireless repair solutions, no matter what the future of repair may hold. With gTool on our side, creating innovative solutions for repair technicians worldwide, we can sleep easy knowing any problem we encounter will soon be resolved. eTech Parts is the nation’s Master Distributor of gTool repair solutions. You can dive in with the gTool™ B-Series All-inone Kit or purchase any of the gTool™ iCorners separately. The easy-to-use gTool™ Screen Jack can remove an LCD assembly in under 2 minutes and is available from eTechParts.

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iFixit Magnetic Project Mat

While iFixit is best known for their impeccable repair guides and right-to-repair rhetoric, their line of specialty tools is truly one-of-a-kind. They know repairs can be hard, but they strive to make them easier with useful and high quality repair tools. The iFixit Magnetic Project Mat is the perfect solution for organizing and keeping tiny screws in one place. This handy mat reduces reassembly time by up to 40% while preventing errors and its magnetic surface is safe for hard drives and other modern electronics.

OEM Screen Assembly Removal Fixture

The OEM Screen Assembly Removal Fixture is a simple solution for removing the screen assembly on an iPhone 5/5s. This device is the perfect addition to any tech bench or workshop, especially for those repair shops that do a lot of iPhone 5/5s repairs. Using the OEM Screen Assembly Removal Fixture, you can easily remove the LCD assembly without doing any damage to the phone or back casing. Just unscrew the two Pentalobe screws at the bottom, put the device in the LCD Remover, fasten it in, and suction the screen right off. All it takes is 2 minutes and a few simple motions – no prying or pulling necessary.

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Wiha PicoFinish Precision Phillips #000

When it comes to Wiha Phillips screwdrivers, there are several options available, but the Wiha PicoFinish #000 is a top choice for technicians worldwide. It was created for easy driving with a tapered handle and rotating cap for precise turning and control. Its high performance blade is precision-ground for an exact fit and non-slip surface and technicians everywhere love it. Wiha screwdrivers don’t break, strip or wear down after years of use. When it comes to repairing expensive electronic devices, trust Wiha to deliver unbeatable performance with each turn of a screw.

With these seven tools tucked away in your tool belt, you’ll be an unstoppable force of technical capacity! You can find these tools and much more from eTech

eTech Parts, LLC

19937 W 162nd St • Olathe, KS 66062 Phone: (913) 839-1718

Parts, the nation’s leading supplier of parts and tools for wireless repair shops. eTech Parts has been leading the parts and tools side of business for over 6 years, with a focus on high quality service that’s unmatched by any other. Never risk your reputation by relying on low quality phone parts and repair tools. Trust eTech Parts to deliver the best premium parts at the best prices possible and you’ll never lose a customer to defective parts or delayed shipments!

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mind that many suppliers, either are of a certain grade, but tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop desires longevity only use parts that they proud to stand behind.

by YUVAL ATIYA AND MOSHE AGIVE

LESSONS LEARNED in Entrepreneurship

Choosing the Right Phone Repair Parts Supplier:

How

to Make the Right Choice and the Harsh Consequences of Failing to do so

The house that Maya Network built, wholesale distributor of replacement parts for smartphones and tablet

more information about Quality Repair or the contents of this article please visit

By Jamil Hindi, president and founder of Quality Repair Parts

When the Maya Network founders learned we had an opportunity to share our story with Wireless Dealer Magazine, we immediately reflected upon how we got started in the repair business and how the WDM readers might benefit from some of the key learnings we experienced in building our business. We view business owners as a tight knit community that collectively stands for the success of every local economy and are part of something greater than even their own business. For us, owning a business is a privilege. It allows creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to be expressed, fulfillment in creating jobs and opportunities for our valued employees and offers great satisfaction in seeing them grow and develop. Delivering great service and experience to customers, we see ourselves as fortunate to foster relationships with the people we do business with, all the while, making a respectable living, and carving out time to spend with family and friends. It has not always been an easy road as we built Maya Network, and not every day is perfect, however we have made great strides since the early days. We are the first to admit the many mistakes we’ve made and honest with the lessons we have learned over the years building Maya Network. We know we will probably make more in the future. However, we wouldn’t change a thing as the journey has been worth every step.

The ‘Un-official’ Grading System

Our advice to all business owners is to accept mistakes with love, and look at them as part of your “tuition” for the school of life as a business owner.

The “B Grade” Screen - Quite arguably the lowest quality screen available in the market.This grade often has a defective rate of roughly 60%. Defects for Grade B screens include: multiple dead spots on the digitizer, stress marks, severe discoloration and dead pixels on the LCD.With most B grade screens, you will notice that the screens do not fit flush on the device as the original part did.You will also notice on B Grade screens that the LCD brightness is incredibly low. It would be similar to going to your phones settings and decreasing the brightness by 75%.

At Maya Networks, we choose to focus on the concept that most small business owners thrive for: to grow to the point where mature parts of the business can run by itself, free yourself of time to develop the company further in even smarter ways and at the same time, spend time doing the things you love, with family and friends. When your life is in balance, we know business owners are much more able to be creative with their businesses. We would like to share with you, a few of our lessons learned in hopes to make a difference and help you get better in what you do.

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www.QualityRepairParts.com. 310-673-0608.

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The “A Grade” Screen - Slightly better than Grade B, the Grade A screens often have a defective rate of about 25%. Defects on Grade A screens include: isolated dead spots on the digitizer, dead pixels and severe blue and yellow blemish spots on the LCD.You may also notice that many of the screens in the Grade A category do not fit flush on the device as the original part did.

LESSON 1: First thing comes first.

The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

You’ve probably heard this many times but it is a reality. You need to want your business to do great really badly and believe you deserve it even more. Work mustn’t be hard, life should be good, fun, and fulfilling, and if you don’t believe you deserve it, or don’t want it really badly for yourself it won’t happen. Think about your business as if it were a physical thing. Can one build a chair without saying “I am going to build a chair”? You must have a blueprint, tools, materials, etc to get started. It’s the same in building your business. You need to fit your needs wants and desires. What problem are you trying to solve in the marketplace? If you don’t know what you want or how to make it happen, the future of your business will not happen. You must have an action plan to outline the steps necessary to make it happen. If you do not build a plan, how will you know what to build? If you look around you there are plenty of small business owners that are achieving this goal, there is nothing special or unique about them they just believe they deserve it, build a plan to get there, and make it happen.

The “AA Grade” Screen - This is the most commonly sold screen on eBay, Amazon or any other high-volume online retailer (This grade of screen is further discussed in the next section of this article).The Grade AA screens have a defective rate of 12% or more.The most noticeable defect on Grade AA screens is in the quality of the LCD. Grade AA screens have a noticeable blue or yellow tint. Many of the screens in this category will

LESSON 2: It takes time.

Without a doubt most parts used in the industry by repair shops are obtained through high-volume retailers such as eBay and Amazon.These are typically the “AA Grade” screens that we explored above.The reason is quite elementary. Businesses will flock to where they can obtain the cheapest parts. In fact, virtually all of our customers were buying from such high volume retailers prior to partnering with us. However, new entrants to the industry, as well as the more versed repair shops still continue to purchase through high-volume retailers.Their mindset is that lower priced parts equates to higher profit margins. Although this equation is generally true, it is far from complete.The “lower part cost = higher margins” approach does not take into consideration the massive hits that a repair shop’s bottom line takes due to the use of such inferior parts. Let’s explore why.

It takes longer than you think. It will not happen overnight, in some cases it can take years to achieve your ideal business plan. It involves energy focused on all facets of your business: hiring, sales, finance, business development, leadership, and more. You will grow in ways you didn’t even know you could; as a person, as a professional, as a business leader. You will need to embrace the learning as you develop yourself personally and professionally. It’s a journey you are about to embark on – this is the fun part, we must say.

We have heard countless stories from our clients on how the use of parts obtained from high-volume

The “AAA Grade” Screen - The highest quality replacement screen available is the AAA grade quality. This quality is usually flawless with no dead spots,dead pixels or discoloration on the LCD.The brightness of the LCD is comparable to an original OEM part. These screens fit perfectly flush on the device.This grade has a low defective rate of about 1-2%.

on word-of-mouth references for future business. Additionally, many customers seeking to repair their phones read online reviews of repair shops and reviews that criticize a shop on the basis of their use of lower quality parts. Poor reputations is very hard to overcome.

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

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LESSON 3: Build a great team.

You will, of course, need to build a team of great employees to empower and to free you up so you can lead. Leadership is a macro and a micro sport. You must keep your eye on the big picture while leading your team in the day to day. Many of us got into business by ourselves and as things progressed we need to hire more and more employees and then we face with the challenge of hiring, managing, and supervising them. In order to scale your business, this is imperative. It is important that you excel in your ability to lead, inspire and grow your employees. But first, let’s touch on hiring. We have found our best employees are one’s who fits to the culture of our company, share the same values, and working styles compliment our company culture. Good employees are like someone you can hang out with (we don’t say you need to be their friend) but you need to hire people that you think can be a good fit for you, and you will have an easy time communicating with them. The main point, in order to find good people and hire quality employees, you must first know who YOU are. You must ask yourself what is important to you in your personal life, what matters to you, what do you value in yourself and what do you value in others? Once you can answer these questions about yourself, you will gain a clearer understanding of what kind of employees can help carry your company mission. Once you are clear about what you want from yourself, it is clearer what kind of people you need around you and then, in the hiring process, it will be obvious when the right candidate is in front of you. This also becomes a great way to solicit recruitment for what kind of employees you are looking to hire as well.

LESSON 4: Be a leader.

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality “AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

Leadership sometimes sounds like a virtue reserved only for CEOs of large companies, politicians and high caliber leaders of industry. We invite you to look at it for a moment from another angle. Whether you have 2, 5, 10, or 100 employees, you are the leader and everyone who works for you looks at you this way whether you like it or not. They will expect you to provide leadership to them. Do not take this lightly. Employees count on you to provide them with job security, growth opportunities and stability in supporting their families. Granted, that’s a big responsibility and not something you can allow yourself to overlook. So what does it mean to be a leader for your employees? For us, it’s our true and honest commitment to create opportunities for them to grow and develop within our company, take on more responsibility, be proactive and valuable employees. We make sure they feel like they are being heard and that their creativity and talent is being valued and making a difference. Once you get to this place with your employees, less supervision is needed and employees generally develop a sense of ownership seeing your business as a place that can move them forward personally and professionally. Being employed by your company becomes their personal goal to invest themselves in the company. Needless to say, when you cross this threshold of responsible employees, everyone wins. Most importantly, your customers win. There is a sea of business books, training programs, and business coaches that can assist you in further detail on being a leader. We wanted to plant the seed that you see yourself as a leader as the first step. We encourage you to educate yourself on the subject any way you can, remember it’s a journey nothing happens overnight.

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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The “A Grade” Screen - Slightly most commonly

The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

yellow tint. Many of the screens in this category will not fit perfectly flush onto the device.

LESSON 5: Your customers are the one who pay your salaries.

The “AAA Grade” Screen - The highest quality replacement screen available is the AAA grade quality. This quality is usually flawless with no dead spots,dead pixels or discoloration on the LCD.The brightness of the LCD is comparable to an original OEM part. These screens fit perfectly flush on the device.This grade has a low defective rate of about 1-2%.

how the use of parts obtained from high-volume retailers severely tarnished their businesses because of the bad reputation that their shops received as a result from using these parts.This makes sense given the fact that many repair shops rely heavily on word-of-mouth references for future business. Additionally, many customers seeking to repair their phones read online reviews of repair shops and reviews that criticize a shop on the basis of their use of lower quality parts. Poor reputations is very hard to overcome.

We can’t talk about building successful business without talking about your customers, remember this, your customers are the ones who pay your salaries. Customers are a big reason for you being in business in the first place. Take care of them “like there is no tomorrow.” Look for opportunities to “blow them away” by your level of commitment and service, even in the event of a potential lost or breakeven on a transaction, still be your great self. Make them feel special, and surprise them with your generosity, look at this as the best advertising and branding investment you will ever make. Do not be stingy with making your customers happy in case something went wrong and they aren’t happy with the service or product you sold them. Overkill should be standard operation. When making things right again, do it to a level that will make them want to tell their friends and family about it. Some business owners will invest large amounts of their budget, time, and resources on advertising to bring customers in their door, but lack a great customer experience which doesn’t create repeat customers and referrals. Therefore, this creates a need to spend more money on advertising to bring new customers in the door. Doesn’t it make more sense investing in the customers you already have?

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

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In conclusion

We hope we achieved our goal in sharing a few of our most valuable lessons we have learned over the years in building Maya Network. We wholeheartedly know that implementing these key learnings has had a direct impact in building Maya Network. We invite and encourage you to be yourself, love your customers and employees, go above and beyond when providing service to your customer, invest in the growth and development of your employees, and continuously educate yourself and thrive to always learn more about all facets of being a entrepreneur. Find business books that interest you, carve out the time to read them, hire a business coach and/or find a mentor to support you along the way. But most importantly, stay true to yourself and your values, be free and live an awesome life. n

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality

Yuval Atiya and Moshe Agive are owners, founders of Maya Network LLC, a wholesale and distribution operation dedicated exclusively to B2B sales and services of replacement parts for smartphones and tablets.

We can be reached for any question or comments at yuval@mayacellularparts.com or moshe@mayacellularparts.com.

For more information about Maya network and our services please visit our web site at www.mayacellularparts.com or call us at 310-673-0608.

“AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either

are of a certain grade, but

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

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Wireless Fixture Experts

Palmer manufactures and extensive list of fixture and display products for the wireless industry. Call or stop by CTIA booth 123 to learn more.

Palmer Supports All Major Carriers

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101

• Easy to Install

Insert threaded base into an existing hole on your fixture and secure with a hand tightened nut. Add Cellblock and live handset. Built-in wire management in the base. Surface mount holder also available.

• Easy and Inexpensive to Update

Simply buy a replacement acrylic Cell-

Made from steel and precision milled 1/2 inch clear plexiglass, the ultrasecure CELLMATE Security Solution protects expensive live phones and tablets against brute force attempts to remove them.

block for your new device. Cellblocks are available for all popular handsets.

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Palmer understands Security Cellmate Device Security Simple and Strong TabletVAULT PhabletVAULT CELLMATE 102

by TONY BAKER

Choosing the Right Phone Repair Parts Supplier:

How

to Make the

PHONE DOCTORS

Right Choice and the Harsh Consequences of Failing to do so

LAUNCHING FRANCHISE

AFTER 10 YEARS OF SOLUTIONS AND SUCCESS

By Jamil Hindi, president and founder of Quality Repair Parts

IThis article is directed at informing those currently in, or considering entering the growing phone repair industry about the variety of avenues in which a repair shop owner may pursue in obtaining repair parts.

n March of 2014, Phone Doctors celebrated their 10 year anniversary at the new company headquarters in downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma. Phone Doctors is in the business of brightening customers’ days by bringing new life to mobile devices, such as cell phones and tablets, and is a recognized leader in the mobile device repair industry.

The

‘Un-official’

Grading System

sale system, Visivity. In addition, they are growing a variety of OEM Brands including ScrewMat magnetic guides and tools, Fuel Charging Accessories, and Xander Protective Cases, among many other things on the horizon.

Phone repair businesses and the number of phone repair technicians in the United States has grown exponentially over recent years. As devices have become more high-tech and more expensive, the need for repairs has skyrocketed. Phone Doctors recognized this trend early on and quickly began working to streamline a business that was only in its infancy.

Phone Doctors operates six corporate locations in Oklahoma and the Northwest Arkansas area. Phone Doctors also has one of the most popular DIY repair websites and they have created their very own point of

Phone Doctors has been growing despite the exceptionally competitive and fast paced industry. With a ten year investor-free track record of success, they’re now ready to take the right people with them to the top. On September 9th, at CTIA 2014 in Las Vegas, Nevada, Phone Doctors will be unveiling their Phone Doctors Franchise Systems to the world.

Now with the strategic alignment of software, suppliers, support and training center solutions in place, Phone Doctors is expecting a large expansion with their franchise offering. The franchise will primarily be focusing on two models, a “traditional” brick and mortar retail store as well as a “box in a box” store model.

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the device as the original part did.

In the last year, hundreds of people have gotten involved in the mobile device repair industry. However, no brand on a national level has secured the consumer’s mind as the go-to company for mobile device repair and replacement. For the past couple of years, Phone Doctors has been working to ready their systems and prepare for a franchise launch. They are now at the right time and right place to fully support franchisees to the level of excellence that Alex Iser, Founder and CEO of Phone Doctors, and his team expects.

The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

To support their franchise system, Phone Doctors recently purchased a new corporate HQ in downtown Tulsa. The HQ built in 1925, is a heavily secured fortress bolstering four-stories and 32,000 square feet. The fully renovated building will contain the entire franchise operation, a model store, a complete sales and technician training center, and a variety of other related enterprises.

Phone Doctors has created a recipe for success and they are ready to serve like-minded entrepreneurs the goods. The company attributes their success to understanding that people come first and money comes second. Phone Doctors was birthed by this principle and will continue to emphasize this key priority as they grow.

The Phone Doctors family has an unwavering passion for excellence in representation of what a repair company should be for it’s customers and is poised to serve many more people. They will continually innovate on their journey of becoming the name brand leader in the mobile device solutions space. n For more information about Phone Doctors Franchise Systems LLC, be sure to visit: www.phonedoctors.com/franchise

of lower quality parts. Poor reputations is very hard to

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By Sondra Sneed, editor at large

Consider what it would be like to no longer deal with stock issues. What if you could manufacture your products on demand? No more having to keep up with model upgrades or wonder how much of what to keep in inventory. This is what’s behind our pondering 3-D printing, for this issue of WDM. We peer into the future of a technology that could do for phone accessories what print on demand did for publishing. Reduce manufacturing and inventory costs by supplying only what the market can absorb.

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What’s Next: On Demand Manufacturing

Do 3-D Printers Hold Boundless Possibilities? 111 What’s Next: On Demand Manufacturing

Do 3-D Printers Hold Boundless Possibilities?

3-D printing uses CAD-drawn, 3-D models to create everyday objects by way of building layers of substrate in a “make box.” Science Fiction fans may recognize this vision of making things from the original Star Trek series in the 60s. Known then as the food synthesizer it later became known as the replicator in Star Trek Next Generation. The theory behind the replicator was to rearrange sub-atomic particles, which are abundant in the universe.

Today’s 3-D printers work more like an ink-jet printer, making pass after pass across a substrate than an organizer of molecules. 3-D printed products range from toys to replacement parts and have been used to build a car and proposed for building houses with cement as the medium. The possibilities are literally endless for this industry-changing technology.

3-D application opportunities also have a far reach. Biotech labs are using ink-jet-like machines to produce microscopic layers of skin cells to make human tissue.

NASA engineers at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, AL are printing and testing parts like

injectors made from a 3-D printer. Wired Magazine featured the first 3-D printed automobile along with its engineer, Jim Kor in its February 2013 issue. “Kor and his team built the threewheel, two-passenger vehicle at RedEye, an on-demand 3-D printing facility. The printers he uses create ABS plastic via Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). The printer sprays molten polymer to build the chassis, layer by microscopic layer, until it arrives at the complete

object. The machines are so automated that the building process they perform is known as ‘lights out’ construction, meaning Kor uploads the design for a bumper, walks away…a few hundred hours later, he’s got a bumper.” The whole car, the article states, took about 2,500 hours to complete.

Chuck Hull invented the first 3-D printer in 1984. He invented a process known as stereo lithography that involved UV lasers to cure photopolymers. Today’s version of the technology directs a laser to melt and cure layer after layer of a polymer powder, the final product materializes after a few hours.

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3D Printed Geometric Pepermints

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Photo by Sara Payne

Use of these printers in large-scale manufacturing has resulted in the making of working prototypes and durable parts, and in some instances they’re already being used to produce the final product. Some models are even capable of high-volume reproduction.

There are a number of technologies capable of 3-D printing. What separates them is how the layers of the design are built. 3-D printing works in microscopic layers, building each on top of the other, from the bottom up. The software takes the product drawing and then slices it into tiny cross sections. The most widely used technologies are:

• SLS (selective laser sintering)

• FDM (fused depostion modeling)

• SLA (stereolithograhpy)

Selective laser sintering (SLS) and fused deposition modeling (FDM) use melting or softening material to produce the layers. This is a process of melting fine powders with a laser, layer by layer, until a 3-D shape emerges out of the substrate. The unused powder is not wasted but added back to the supply.

Who makes 3-D printers? Here are a few early players, but the list has grown to nearly 300 worldwide.

Industrial 3-D printer manufacturers:

• Stratasys – stratasys.com

• 3-DSystems – printin3-D.com

Home 3-D printers manufacturers:

• RepRap. - RepRap.org

• Makerbot Industries – makerbot.com

• Ultimaker – blog.ultimaker.com

• Fab@Home - www.fabathome.org/

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MakerBot Replicator Desktop 3D Printer (5th Generation) 113

Chuck Hull - 3D Printing Inventor

From

Grade

Also referred to as ‘additive manufacturing,’ Wikipedia states that Stratasys, under the name fused deposition modeling (FDM) commercialized 3-D printing. Z Corporation in 1995 commercialized an MIT-developed additive process, under the trademark 3-D printing (3-DP). This referred to a proprietary process, inkjet deposition of liquid binder on powder.

To da y th ese proce ss es a r e l ev er ag ed t o reduce costs i n c ommerc ia l applications. Large-scale manufacturers aren ’t t h e o nly on es b en ef i t i ng fr o m t h e ne w t echn ol og y , h o w ever , d e s i gne r s , in v ento rs, and engineers now have a c c essi ble options to go from cocktail napkin to Au t o CAD file to prototype from their home computer.

In 2005, the home-use market was established with the open-source RepRap and Fab@Home projects, bringing prices down to affordable, consumer models.

Materials Used in 3-D Printers

3-Ders.org explains there are a number of different materials that can be used for 3-D printing. They include but are not limited to ABS plastic, PLA, polyamide (nylon), glass-filled polyamide, stereolithography materials (epoxy resins), silver, titanium, steel, wax, photopolymers, polycarbonate or even chocolate. (ChocaByte is the world’s first compact personal chocolate making appliance for the home.)

Prices

3-D printers, in the past, have ranged from $3,000 to $50,000 for in-home use. Today, however, costs for one of these printers range from $299 for a kit to $5,000, with many high-rated models priced below the $2,000 mark. As the last decade in cell phones have demonstrated, there’s no stopping demand for products that alter the way humans do things, and now how they make things. The cellular market has seen more than one bubble as consumers grab the latest version of what’s next. For buyers and sellers of accessories, keeping up with the models have proven nightmare worthy, but with easier cheaper manufacturing processes aiding product design the nightmare is turning into a dream of endless possibilities.

FIVE 3-D Printers for Home Use

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02: Afinia H Series 03: Ultimaker 2 04: MakerBot Replicator 2 05: Solidoodle 4 Cubify® Filament Cartridges 114

Cube – from 3-D Systems

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For The Handy Man

For those of us that love a little adventure, and would prefer to do things the hard way, as well as save a few hundred dollars in the process, there are many 3-D printer manufactueres that offer DIY starter kits. With a little know how, a few tools, a pinch of patience, a little extra time, and stable internet connection (to troubleshoot via google search) you too can join the 3-D printing revolution.

These DIY Starter kits come in a variety of styles, sizes and skill levels. The home-built 3-D printer market has been booming since 2006, hundreds of thousands of kits have been purchased, built and put to use. There are some that say that the entire process of building your kit to printing your first model, may take some a few months to accomplish, however if this is too much for you to handle, there is still hope!

There has lately been an increase in “Hacker” or “Maker” Spaces popping up in every city. In a lot of these artist run environments you can find the equipment that you need to start printing your first 3-D renderings, and quite possibly someone to show you the ropes. Of course this isn’t entirely free. There are monthly membership fees, an application process and a even waiting lists before you’re accepted and able to start “making”. This is the perfect option for anyone on a budget, or who is even curious as to how this entire process works.

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OverstockWireless

Overstock Wireless is the new PCS Wireless auction site.

It is designed exclusively for wireless dealers and is the only auction site that everages the global open market distribution network of PCS Wireless. Get started today.

www.overstockwireless.com

Our members enjoy:

No bidding fees

Auctions without reserves

Ability to pay by PayPal

All private auctions by invite only

PCS Wireless owned inventory

Exclusive oﬀers not available elsewhere

Objective and consistent product gradings

Variety of brands, products, conditions & technologies

Unique and engaging auction platform

Overstock Wireless auctions feature:

Mobile phones, tablets, aircards and accessories

A wide variety of brands

GSM * CDMA * WiFi

3G * 4G * LTE

Brand new, certiﬁed open box and 7-14 day returns

Refurbished and used products

Questions? Contact info@overstockwireless.com or +1-973-805-7400 ext 179

Scan to sign up today! 118

Choosing the Right Phone Repair Parts Supplier:

With over 20 years of experience in the industry and a team made up of people with a passion for design and high quality, the MyMe brand of cell phone accessories offers quality, convenience, and style yet keeps its product line very affordable.

How to Make the Right Choice and the Harsh Consequences of Failing to do so

The exciting new line of MyMe products available are CHROME and LUX car and home chargers, BELIEVE In-Ear ear phones, FLEX and M7 headphones that are truly amazing, the INSPIRE case, Bluetooth speakers and many other items that will “connect & inspire” you.

By Jamil Hindi, president and founder of Quality Repair Parts

specifically designed with not only the customer in mind but also the merchant. MyMe has a very passionate team that can design and manufacture all kinds of different types of displays straight out of South Florida that will meet their customers’ needs.

The MyMe team not only perfected accessories for cell phones and tablets but the packaging was designed to increase sales. Grabbing your customers’ attention is important with every product and with MyMe’s bright colors and exquisite packaging your customers’ will not pass by without noticing.

To add the finishing touch to MyMe’s secretive concept is the variety of displays they make here in the USA, the newest are the Prestige displays. Their displays are

The article will briefly introduce the grading system in which parts are classified by quality. I will then dive into the many different routes that

The ‘Un-official’ Grading System

With all of MyMe’s innovation that will inspire and connect you…the line of accessories they manufacture are for every age, gender, style and taste! You will love them, your customers will love them and your customers’ friends will love them.

To inquire about the MyMe Prestige Micro Display Brand please call the sales department at 844-322-0655, you can also reach them by email info@mymeworld.com or simply go to their website www.mymeworld.com. n

The “B Grade” Screen - Quite arguably the lowest quality screen available in the market. This grade often has a defective

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WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY Not

121 2014 - 2015

Just Fantasy

Finally some workout gear that batman would be proud of. These skin tight skivvies use biosignal monitoring to meassure your muscle activity, heart rate and breathing. The best part is that there are no wires. The Athos Body Suit uses woven in proprietery sensors which countour to your body, perfectly making this athletic gear just as comforatable as all of your other compression apperal. The come with a detachable core, which acts pretty much like a brain. this will allow you to interface dirrectly with their app, and track your stats.

Reserve yours at www.liveathos.com

Athos -

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Body Suit

Personal Trainer

Moto 360

What makes the Moto 360 so interesting? For the most part, it’s the look. It’s one of the boldest and most style friendly smartwatches. The round design makes this gadget gender neutral. They have ditched the sharp corners that can dig into your wrist. Promises aside, the shape is an improvement over the square designs that we normally see and it makes the Moto 360 look like a regular fashion watch from a distance.

www.moto360.motorola.com

The LG G Watch’s crisp display, sleek design and long batter life make this intellegent time piece remarkably comfortable to wear all day, everyday. If the OEM watch strap isn’t your cup of tea, you can always customize it with any standard 22mm (0.86in) watch strap. One of the neatest features is that you can won’t have to worry if you get caught in the rain or even a dust storm, the LG G Watch is IP67 water and dust resistant.

www.lg.com

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LG G Watch

Ironman One GPS+ by Timex

Let’s face it. There are times when we want to travel light, carry the bare minimum, hit the road and go. What if you could leave your phone behind and stay truly mobile? Well soon you wont have to worry about this with the ONE GPS+. Your run, your tunes, your messaging without your phone.

Preorder at www.timex.com

With a Martian Notifier smartwatch, you’ll have the ability to receive notifications and alerts from 1000’s of popular apps, including Runmeter, Clash of Clans, ESPN SportCenter, and CNN. Customize your watch settings with the free Martian Notifier App for iOS and Android, so you only receive alerts that are important to you. Also includes electronic phone leash so you know if you have left your iPhone or Android smartphone behind, remote camera control so you can snap a photo with everyone in the shot, and much more! Martian Notifier comes in black, white or red, and with 9 quick-change watch band options to choose from, you can easily personalize your Martian to match your outfit or mood!

www.martiannotifier.com

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Wear Smartwach

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One

Martian Smart Watch: G2G | Passport

Victory

Notifier

Misfit Shine

This elegant personal activity tracker, allows you to keep track of almost anything and everything your body may encounter on a daily basis. You can set daily goals using points to help you maintain your fitness regimen or even break your own best records. This light weight medallion can be affixed to just about anything and can be worn just about anywhere. A quick tap of the app on you iPhone allows you to check your progress. You can also monitor your sleep, steps, calories distance and even log your daily food intake via the apps daily photo and food journal.

www.misfit.com

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Find By SenseGiz

Want to track kids in a crowded environment? Want to ensure your pets do not go far away? FIND your keys easily early in the morning? Can’t remember where you kept your handbag? Track if your bags made it to your flight? Or find your luggage easily on the luggage belt after a flight? Avoid forgetting your phone in a restaurant? The FIND by SenseGiz can solve all your problems !!

www.sensegiz.com

Lechal Smart Shoes

Visiting a new city or on vacation in a far away land? Now you won’t be afraid to go off the beaten path again. These Sporty Sneakers are powered by an internal application which sinks with Google Maps. You can brave a new world with route guidance, explore new places or even get to know your neighborhood. “Go anywhere and everywhere”

www.lechal.com

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Google Glass

These smart specs, give you the power of the world wide web without the need for a mobile phone or computer. You can browse the web, get directions, listen to music or even pull up your favorite pecan pie recipe. Google Glass comes in 5 different frames in 8 different shades which will bring you into the 21st century without cramping your style.

www.google.com/glass

BearTek Bluetooth Gloves

BearTek™ Gloves are protective gloves that allow remote access and control of your mobile devices. These featurerich gloves allow users to control their Bluetooth devices and GoPro® products. Simple touches of the thumb to the appropriate finger will activate the desired function on the target device, allowing you to control your music, calls, and more, without interrupting your activity. These modern mittens come in three different varieties, Moto, Classic and Snow.

www.beartekgloves.com

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Lumo Lift

Having and maintaing perfect posture can be difficult for some, especially after a 14 hour day behind a desk. But during those long work days it would be a great benefit to your body and well being to sit up straight. The Lumo Lift can be worn as a piece of jewelry or hidden under your clothes. Lift fades away into the background and can be set to Coach mode in order to remind you to stop slouching. in no time you’ll have perfect posture and healthier back.

www.lumobodytech.com

Spree SmartCap and Headband

The Spree SmartCap and Headband are designed to take your fitness to a whole new level. They keep you free from the constraints of chest straps, while measuring heart rate, body temperature, and movement all in one device. Spree syncs with your smartphone to track your workouts, and show real-time progress of your fitness goals. Using your information, the Spree SmartApp finds the optimal workout zone to make your workouts more effective and safe.

www.spreesports.com

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Have you ever seen something amazing happen only to miss it all while you’re trying to dig your phone out of your pocket, activate the photo app, and then try to capture the exact moment you just missed? The Narrative Clip is a tiny, automatic camera and app that gives you a searchable and shareable photographic memory. Now you will never miss anything, from your babies first words to his walk accross the stage or her walk accross the aisle.

www.getnarrative.com

June by Netatmo

This stylish accessory tracks UV intensity in real-time and the total sun exposure absorbed by the user’s skin throughout the day.

Depending on the woman’s skin type, the App calculates the suggested maximum daily exposure. Every woman can monitor their sun dose measured in percentage throughout the day.

To avoid sun damage, the App can notify the user when to protect their skin. The App also features a summary of time spent in the sun, allowing the user to see when the UV rays impact on the skin was most intense during the day

www.netatmo.com

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Ditch the cord with FUEL iON Magnetic Wireless Charging System! Designed for iPhone® 5/5S, Samsung Galaxy S®4, Samsung Galaxy S®5, and Samsung

Note 3®. Just place and charge!

R TA B L E C H A R G E R S TA B L E T K E Y B O A R D S *TabletS NOT inCLUDED TA B L E T C A S E S A B L E S 130

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Tel 516 694 1100 Fax 516 694 1103 GSM WHOLESALE Apple iPhone 5 S Apple iPhone 5 Apple iPhone 5 C Apple iPhone 4 S Apple iPhone 4 Samsung Galaxy S5 Samsung Galaxy S5 Mini Samsung Galaxy S4 Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini Samsung Note 3 Samsung Galaxy s3 Samsung Galaxy s3 mini Samsung Galaxy Grand Samsung Galaxy Grand 2 Samsung Galaxy HTC M8 Blu Studio 6.0 Blu Studio 5.0 LTE Blu Life Pure XL 3G Wireless center is a leading supplier of GSM unlocked phones worldwide We supply and fulfill demands with our physical inventory We have a wide variety of colors and models in stock with terrific prices !!!! Contact us, We can be your Cell phone supplier ! 134

by MICHELLE JAMES

Choosing the Right Phone Repair Parts Supplier:

An Interview with Howard Rosenberg

How to Make the

Right Choice and the Harsh Consequences of Failing to do so

BUYING EXCESS INVENTORY DIRECT FROM TOP ELECTRONIC ORGANIZATIONS,

By Jamil Hindi, president and founder of Quality Repair Parts

MADE EASY

With the barrage of handset SKU’s in production, along with the proliferation of trade-in programs, we have uncovered an important option in inventory management — the liquidation marketplace. We recently sat down with Howard Rosenberg to discuss how B-Stock Solutions works and how wireless retailers can benefit from buying liquidation inventory on the open market.

Howard founded B-Stock Solutions in 2008, after working at eBay for over six years. At eBay, Howard was General Manager of eBay’s enterprise B2B business,

WDM: How does B-Stock Solutions work?

The ‘Un-official’ Grading System

known as Private Marketplace group, where he managed close to $1 billion in excess inventory in bulk lot, online auctions. In addition to Howard’s experience at eBay, he spent four years on the Advisory Board of the Reverse Logistics Association and has been a frequent speaker on techniques to optimize liquidation recovery. With a background in reverse logistics and eBay marketplace management along with a strong support team, Howard and B-Stock Solutions deliver one of the largest networks of private label marketplaces in North America.

Howard: B-Stock Solutions is not a liquidator; B-Stock Solutions is a technology-enabled suite of marketplace services that connects buyers to sellers through client-branded online marketplaces. B-Stock Solutions is one of the largest sourcing networks for buyers and sellers with over 200 product categories, including three of our fastest growing electronic marketplace categories: consumer electronics, wireless devices, and IT gear. B-Stock Solutions makes it possible for small wireless dealers and retailers to purchase excess inventory and customer returns directly from the source, rather than through layers of liquidators and brokers.

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Howard Rosenberg, founder and CEO of B-Stock Solutions, addresses the inventory liquidation market using a technology enabled services platform to connect buyers and sellers in the mobile hardware industry. These client branded online, private marketplaces add a valuable sourcing option for wireless retailers balancing inventory supply and customer demand.

To join the B-Stock Sourcing Network today, www.sourcing.bstocksolutions.com

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WDM: Why should independent wireless retailers use liquidation to acquire mobile inventory?

The

Howard: Before B-Stock Solutions, top retailers and manufacturers could only sell their excess inventory and customer returns to a limited group of liquidators. This sales process was not easily accessible to small and large retailers. In today’s market, B-Stock provides independent wireless retailers a safe, easy, and secure online platform to purchase directly from these same top retailers and manufacturers. To provide buyers an additional level of confidence, B-Stock reviews the accuracy of inventory descriptions from these reputable sellers. In addition, buyers have the ability to purchase inventory in a variety of quantities ranging from a few pallets to truckloads at liquidation prices.

WDM: How does B-Stock Solutions ensure quality of products between buyers and sellers?

Howard: While B-Stock does not physically evaluate the inventory of its sellers, we stress the importance of accurate grading and descriptions. To uphold seller integrity, sellers are required to review policies and guidelines pertaining to full disclosure of inventory quality. This enables buyers to confidently bid on and purchase the exact type of product they want. On the other hand, each seller sets specific buyer requirements for each individual auction; all buyers are pre-approved by B-Stock based on these criteria. Overall, our marketplaces create a more reliable, transparent, and efficient distribution of bulk lots that mutually benefits both sellers and buyers.

WDM: How easy is it to join a private marketplace and how quickly can retailers buy inventory?

Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers Without a doubt most parts used in the industry by repair shops are obtained through high-volume retailers such as eBay and Amazon. These are typically the “AA Grade” screens that we explored above. The reason is quite elementary. Businesses will flock to where they can obtain the cheapest parts. In fact, virtually all of our customers were buying from such high volume retailers prior to partnering with us. However, new entrants to the industry, as well as the more versed repair shops still continue to purchase through high-volume retailers. Their mindset is that lower priced parts equates to higher profit margins. Although this equation is generally true, it is far from complete. The “lower part cost = higher margins” approach does not take into consideration the massive hits that a repair shop’s bottom line takes due to the use of such inferior parts. Let’s explore why.

Howard: It’s easy to join a private marketplace; typically a reseller will only be required to present a valid resale certificate. Resellers can register for any or all of our 20+ private marketplaces, and once approved, bid on the auction lots of interest, via our transparent and trusted auction platform. Auctions are open over a few days’ time, typically between two and four days, from initial listing to auction closing date.

When a reseller wins an auction lot, he can request a shipping quote provided on the platform or, the reseller can choose to use his own shipper. Then the buyer coordinates the removal process directly with the seller.

WDM: How does the online liquidation auction process work?

Howard: Each of B-Stock Solutions’ private marketplaces posts auctions on different schedules. New auctions start daily and some weekly. New listings are added frequently, and the best way to stay updated is to join the marketplace. Upon joining a marketplace, you can opt-in to receive auction alert emails that notify approved users whenever new auctions begin or are about to end. Bidding is straightforward, safe and easy.

WDM: How do wireless retailers get started?

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

Howard: Your first step is to join the B-Stock Sourcing Network by registering on each marketplace that interests you. Simply fill out the short registration form and upload your reseller’s certificate. You must submit a reseller’s certificate for approval. Only approved users can bid on auctions. Once your application is complete, you should receive your approval within 24 hours. n

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Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality “AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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The largest cell phone parts distributor in the U.S 1888-683-7306 | info@mengtor.com | www.mengtor.com Go to Mengtor.com to order from our extensive list of industry leading cell phone parts. 140

Founded in 1998, Digital Treasures has enjoyed sixteen successful years of providing innovative consumer electronics products.

Uniquely focused on quality and value, every item in the Digital Treasures line is designed for long-lasting performance. This dedication to high standards has made the Digital Treasures brand synonymous with reliability, earning customer confidence across our complete line of Bluetooth speakers, portable power and sturdy cases for use with PC’s, smartphones and tablets.

top two frustrations of music enthusiasts: tangled or lost earbuds.

Inspired to create the TurtleCell case after their own experiences with tangled earbuds, the TurtleCell engineers spent three years perfecting their design – including creating a patented retraction mechanism that allows for consistent retraction without adding bulk to the case.

In 2014, Digital Treasures entered one of the most notable partnerships in the industry, joining with a pair of twenty-something entrepreneurial engineers to bring to market a new benchmark in smartphone cases, the TurtleCell. This streamlined, protective case features built-in retractable premium headphones that eliminate the

Digital Treasures will begin shipping the iPhone 5/5s version of the TurtleCell case this September in four metallic colors.

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upcoming event

2014 Canadian Wireless Trade shoW

OctOber 29 & 30, 2014

tOrOntO cOngress centre

The fourth annual Canadian Wireless Trade Show will take place October 29 & 30 at the Toronto Congress Centre. Terrific exhibitors blazing trails in the wireless industry are already geared up for a great event. Exhibit space is still available for more interested parties. Why attend? Exposure. Exposure. Exposure. The event is anticipated to draw more than 2,500 members of the wireless industry, promising opportunity to do business right on the show floor. Boost the sales of your products and services with the

Visit CanadianWirelessTradeshow.com to find out about exhibit availability before its too late.

savvy Canadian audience. Whether you’re building contacts for the current or the future, or completing a deal that’ll benefit all involved, the show floor offers you a chance to shine among other wireless leaders. Make contact with industry members looking for the latest and greatest in innovative products. Many to-be-announced guest speakers will hold court daily to help provide attendees with valuable insight on an array of timely, hot topics. If you want to know where the wireless industry is headed, having a seat these sessions is paramount.

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Mobile device protection package for retailers

DryWired® is a Los Angeles based firm that invests, licenses, customizes and distributes over 100 different advanced nanocoating technologies providing critical protection to electronics, textiles, infrastructure and transportation from water, oil, corrosion, heat and abrasion.

The DryWired® Nebula and Nebula Junior are revolutionary patent pending table top nanocoating systems that are affordable, compact and ideal for electronic retailers looking to offer invisible water repellent nanocoatings directly to their customers. The performance reliability and small footprint makes the Nebula systems an ideal solution for consumer facing mobile phone retailers, repair/service centers, mobile phone accessory providers and other small businesses. The award-winning Nebula systems are designed and manufactured in California. The Nebula systems can be used to nanocoat mobile phones, iPads and other tablets, gaming consoles, headsets, headphones and ear buds, hearing aids, cameras, electronic assemblies, and other high value items. The DryWired® Nebula features a two-tiered configuration in the chamber, which can accommodate a maximum of 28 smart-phones per cycle. The more compact, DryWired® Nebula Junior also features two configurable tiers and can accommodate up to 14 mobile devices per coating cycle. Both systems are safe and user friendly with programmable settings. The Nebula systems use disposable gas cartridges that are non-hazardous, non-toxic, and can be shipped worldwide. The award-winning Nebula systems are designed and manufactured in California, U.S.A. and are CEmarked, ISO-certified and UL-listed.

DryWired’s Screen Armor is a nano-laminate tempered glass membrane that provides excellent impact and abrasion resistance to handheld devices whose number one enemy are their clumsy and sometimes careless owners. The bubble-free flawless application is exceedingly simple and provides 99% transparency that will not af fect the eye popping resolution of your display.

DryWired has partnered with PowerSkin to offer smooth silicone cases with built-in batteries provide up to twice the power for popular Apple, Android, Windows and RIM smartphones, featuring sleek, protective designs that fit your phone and fit your style. PowerSkin® is Powered by XPAL™, meaning it’s charged by patented battery technology that reflects the highest standards for safety, quality and performance. Designed to be your go-to, go-anywhere, go on-and-on power source, PowerSkin® has got you – and your phone –covered.

PowerSkin® is powered by XPAL Inside™, meaning it’s charged by patented battery technology that reflects the highest standards for safety, quality, and performance. XPAL Power Inc. pushes industry boundaries and delivers products consumers want. We focus on providing products and services that allow people to enjoy life without worrying about power. We power today’s and tomorrow’s devices with dedicated product developers and a design-focused team.

DryWired®’s Screen Armor is a nano-laminate tempered glass membrane that provides excellent impact and abrasion resistance to hand-held devices whose number one enemy are their clumsy and sometimes careless owners. The bubble-free flawless application is exceedingly simple and provides 99% transparency that will not af fect the eye popping resolution of your display.

DryWired’s Mobile Protection is the complete package designed to protect portable devices against the two most common incidents that destroy them; water damage and shattered screens. The DryWired Nebula’s advanced plasma technology provides retail markets with an easy way to increase the water resistance of a devices. Screen Armor is a nanotechnology-based screen protector that dissipates force outwards, away from a device’s display on the molecular level. With the purchase of a Nebula, you qualify for wholesale pricing on DryWired Screen Armor.

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REVERSE COMMERCE

also referred to as ReCommerce is the recovery of goods through a physical or online presence.

Use this WDM exclusive code to save BIG: CTIA2014

Online ReCommerce & Reverse logistics platform provides retailers worldwide Sourcely 145

with

REVERSE LOGISTICS

the process of moving goods from their typical ﬁnal destination to emerging markets with the purpose of capturing maximum value.

Use this WDM exclusive code to save BIG: CTIA2014 CTIA@Sourcely.com

.com

access to the fastest and most proﬁtable buyback network. Guaranteed! 146

by MICHELLE JAMES

Choosing the Right Phone Repair Parts Supplier:

INGRAM MICRO MOBILITY

How to Make the

Right Choice and the Harsh Consequences of Failing to do so

An interview with Alex Paskoff, Head of Consumer Sales and Marketing

By Jamil Hindi, president and founder of Quality Repair Parts

The

‘Un-official’ Grading System

Ingram Micro Mobility is blazing trails in the retail supply chain eco-system, having gone through a re-branding exercise this past year with respect to how they market to independent wireless retailers. Ingram Micro acquired BrightPoint in July 2012 in order to expand into the mobility business and leverage their core competency in electronics distribution, creating Ingram Micro Mobility — a division of Ingram Micro. The legacy BrightPoint business has become the mobility division of Ingram Micro Mobility. With the same Brighpoint focus on channel relationships, they now have even more resources to serve the independent retail channels. Wireless Dealer Magazine had an opportunity to interview Alex Paskoff, Head of Consumer Sales Strategic Development and Marketing, and discuss how this change has influenced their business in pursuit of continuing to be a go-to distribution partner for retailers nationwide.

WDM: We believe the independent retailers are very savvy entrepreneurs. This community really makes it happen at the street level. What trends do you see in terms of distribution on the retail front? What role does the new Ingram Micro Mobility play now with the indirect channel?

Alex: I couldn’t agree more with you with respect to the wireless dealer communities. They’re survivors. They’re the epitome of entrepreneurs and through all of the changes, consolidations, and shifts in the industry; they’ve not only survived, many have even prospered swimming against the tide in many cases. Those who know us from BrightPoint and maybe even before then as Wholesale Cellular, they know us as servicing that very community, so without them I don’t know that we would’ve ever even been a business. We get it and we understand the independent retailer for sure.

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The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

WDM: What role does the new brand play? Have you been able to cultivate the same relationships that you had with the indirect channel, or has that changed?

Alex: I would say it’s expanded a little bit because of the channel’s diversity within the Ingram Micro environment. The “legacy BrightPoint” has always been focused on servicing the traditional wireless independent dealer, retailers with one or two locations all the way up to the bigger guys that have a few hundred locations. With Ingram’s core we also have access

We’re carrier-agnostic, we are manufacturer-agnostic, and supplier-agnostic.

to independent resellers who focus on the enterprise segments and SMB, which is similar yet a somewhat different type of entrepreneurial operation, old customer versus mainstream consumer. It’s expanded our reach.

WDM: Could you walk me through a little bit how is this channel engages with Ingram Micro Mobility today?

Alex: For the independent wireless retailer, there are a couple different touch points. One is certainly in the accessory world. One of the things we’re successful in doing as a result of Ingram acquiring BrightPoint is we really lit up a very successful accessory distribution business which isn’t tied to a particular mobile operator. We have access to all of the independent dealers; and they have access to us through an inside sales organization and outside sales organization. We’ve developed a suite of online tools that give independent wireless retailers 24/7 access to our entire product portfolio.

Those are all things that we’ve developed over the course of the last two years to become meaningful to their business and easy to do business with in context of how they can engage Ingram Micro Mobility to expand their portfolio of accessories. I always stay in tune with what’s going on in that space. The handset environments are a little bit different because it still is carrier controlled. A lot of the dealers interface with Ingram Micro Mobility because of the services that we provide to the mobile operators in the US where we manage the transaction between that independent wireless dealer and the mobile operator. They’re interfacing with our online tools. They’re receiving their products from us as a provider of supply chain services to the mobile operator.

WDM: Would you call yourself carrier-agnostic with your main focus on channel distribution of product?

Alex: Yes, that’s right. We’re carrier-agnostic, we are manufacturer-agnostic, and supplier-agnostic. We really position ourselves within the ecosystem to be in the middle or the hub of all these types of activities and in the middle of all that commerce. If you’re an independent dealer, there are lots of opportunities to do that commerce directly with Ingram Micro Mobility as an authorized distributor; and in other cases they’re interfacing with us as a provider of service between their mobile operator and the retailer. As an example, we’ll handle in the US this year, somewhere in the neighborhood of 75 million wireless handsets. Roughly one of every three devices in the US comes through an Ingram Micro Mobility facility, and a big, big, big percentage of those products end up in the hands of an independent wireless retailer.

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

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WDM: How does the flow of product work between Ingram Micro Mobility and the channel?

Alex: Handsets flow through our facilities and we’re shipping directly to the end point. In some cases, we own the inventory, and we’re the’ merchant of record’ if you will, conducting the commerce directly with the independent retailer. The independent wireless retailer purchases handsets from us directly. In other cases we may just be the 3PL in between the carrier and the independent wireless retailer. Each carrier has their own distribution strategy and in some cases the product resides on our balance sheet; and other cases is resides on the carriers and we just facilitate the transactions.

WDM: What about the direct relationship to the retailer?

Alex: That’s a huge part of our business. If you take a look at the three channels that we primarily serve: mobile operator, mass big box retailers, and independent wireless retailers; over the course of the last twelve months our fastest channel from a growth perspective has been in the independent wireless retail space. We’ve really grown our handset distribution, so that’s specifically in those channels.

WDM: What white label or private label programs to you offer the independent wireless retailer?

Alex: For independent wireless retailers there are really only two white label opportunities. One would certainly be in the accessories environment where we offer white label, private label solutions. Then we also have — because we’re one of the few distributors in the U.S. with vertically integrated distribution solutions — and what I mean by that is what they sell is our foreign distribution, our reverse logistics, and our customization services we all do in-house. We don’t ship product to a repair center and bring it back. Everything we do is vertically integrated. We also do white label reconditioned phone programs as well. If an independent wireless retailer wants to distribute reconditioned phones under a private brand or label, or use one of our brands, we can certainly do that as well.

WDM: When working with independent retailers directly, does Ingram Micro Mobility have a stringent “minimums” policy?

Alex: No, no, no. We get the independent wireless retailer’s need to manage inventory, like I said, for a period of our life as former Brighpoint, our lives depended on services small orders — so we get it. The former chairman and CEO of BrightPoint started in the industry as an

...the three channels that we primarily serve: mobile operator, mass big box retailers, and independent wireless retailers...our fastest channel from a growth perspective has been in the independent wireless retail space.

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality “AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

independent wireless retailer. It’s in our DNA and we get that often they’re purchasing, what we call “each’s” sometimes individual or very small quantities. That was a lot of the energy behind some of the online tools we developed, which gives retailers the opportunity to go to Ingram Micro Mobility online and purchase individual units without monthly minimums.

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

WDM: With the enormous size of Ingram Micro Mobility, do you think there is a market perception that you are too big to service the independent retailer?

Alex: I will tell you while we were going through the rebranding process, a lot of us that were on that legacy BrightPoint side had similar concerns. We were thinking, “We’re getting gobbled up by this $42 billion global technology distribution entity, and what’s going to happen to our autonomy and our ability to service some channels that are very unique to our industry.” The wireless independent retailer is very unique to our industry and it doesn’t really exist in other areas, so we had those same concerns. I will tell you now that we’re almost two years into the rebranding effort and it’s been the opposite.

The “AA Grade”

Screen - This is the most commonly sold screen on eBay, Amazon or any other high-volume online retailer (This grade of screen is further discussed in the next

Now we have access to working capital that we never had because of the size of the company, and because Ingram Micro wasn’t really in the wireless business before the acquisition, there was no overlap. They’ve given us remarkable amounts of autonomy to continue to run the business that we’ve been running for the last couple of decades. All the old facilities, our U.S. headquarter for mobility is the same facility that it was before the transaction, and we’ve actually expanded the facilities; so we have dedicated mobile facilities as well as access to the Ingram Micro infrastructure if we need to use shared facilities. It ended up being the opposite of what all our fears were and we probably need to do a better job of communicating that out to the channel so they don’t have the perception…

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WDM: So underneath the Ingram Micro Mobility your team still sounds like the BrightPoint we all used to know.

Alex: I tell my team all the time, while we are Ingram Micro Mobility, our hearts still beat BrightPoint because that’s where so many of us came from and we don’t want to lose that from the way we engage with our clients.

WDM: Repair is a hot topic! What can you tell me about your reverse logistics programs?

Alex: We’ve invested millions of dollars into the reverse logistics side of our business. We’ve opened a dedicated facility in Dallas, Texas as well as expanded with a dedicated reverse logistics facility in Costa Rica; and we also opened a return center in Plainfield, Indiana. It’s a huge part of our business. We process 40,000 returns every day, so it’s a scaled business and it services everyone from the independent dealer that has a couple of stores all the way up to the biggest retailers and mobile operators in our industry.

Reverse logistics is a capability that we extend into all channels and it’s the capability that’s really changed over the course of the last twelve to twenty-four months as well. There was a period of time when reverse logistics was just returns management and, “Does it need to be repaired, or not?” If it gets repaired, the more profit generation opportunity versus a black hole. That’s what we try to drive through our business. How can we take the assets we have in reverse logistics and turn it into a profit driver for our clients?

WDM: Retailers are definitely turning into more service centers in terms of their profit.

Alex: I think that’s exactly right. The savvy independent wireless retailers do the out-of-warranty, probably level 1 work themselves, and it’s a good money generator for them. Often times where it’s at level 2 or level 3, they need access to parts or components and that’s where we can help.

WDM: What advice do you share with mobile device manufacturers that independent retailers need to know about pre-holiday inventory and sales planning?

Alex: Supply chain planning. What we call overall demand, planning, and forecasting. Another area where we invest in a lot of time, energy, and money in developing tools that can be leverage. Not just for big operation retailers, but for independent wireless retailers as well. What the manufacturers want to see is some level of sale-in, sale-through data from the independent wireless retailers to help them plan. Through our distribution efforts, we act as a consolidator. If we’re harmonized with the independent wireless retail environment it just allows the mobile device manufacturers to be better prepared because we’re fully transparent with them.

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality “AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

There are some independent wireless retailers that give us access to their point-of-sale so we can integrate into their POS and actually get real time information. Preparing for pre-holiday sales cycles is all about data, all about information. We want to be prepared to have the right amount of buffer stock. As you know, having been in the industry for a long time, back in the day the manufacturers had tons of bumper stock. That’s gone away. The need to plug-in preparation for peak selling periods is even more important today.

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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We as a distribution partner and supply chain partner, we want to make sure that we’ve got that bumper stock, that we’re prepared so that when things happen that aren’t necessarily predictable the independent retailer isn’t left holding the bag. The reality of product allocation, depending on the manufacturer, the mobile operator, it typically ends up with carrier owned stores first, then big box retail, then independent dealers. We as a distributor heavily focused on the independents, we want to make sure that we mitigate that by having the right inventory on hand to serve the independent retailer.

WDM: How do you communicate effectively with so many points of distribution?

Alex: That’s a great question. That is a lot of the responsibility of our inside sales organization. We have an inside sales team for which a person, all they do is service the independent wireless retailers. They’re assigned accounts and depending on the account size, it could be a handful of accounts, dozens of accounts, hundreds of accounts; but their role is to stay connected to that community and share information, and role that information out. If we think there are going to be component shortages that could impact supply, that could impact a certain manufacturer, if we think there are patent infringement issues going on in the industry that could create supply constraints with particular manufacturers — it’s their job to communicate that information so the independent wireless retailers are equipped with the

We as a distributor heavily focused on the independents, we want to make sure that we mitigate that by having the right inventory on hand to serve the independent retailer.

information they need to prepare for their business. Whether they’re sophisticated or not in terms of systems and ability to integrate is really less relevant. Obviously, if we can integrate into a point-of-sale system and have real time information, that is optimal, but the reality is especially in the smaller segments of the independent wireless retailer – the guys that own twelve stores or less who spend their time selling, not investing in infrastructure.

WDM: What specific communication vehicles work best for you? Is that communication in the form of an email, an alert, a bulletin?

Alex: Yeah, it’s a little bit of all the above. We do what we call HTML blasts where we communicate to the masses via daily communication. We have tools where our marketing organization sends communication to the dealer communities on a consistent basis. We still use email and we actually have these things at our desks with buttons, called telephones that serve as the best in reaching out to the customer personally. We are active in the blogging community as well and we try to get as many followers as we can to that because we’re sharing what we think is salient information to the wireless retailers in real time.

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

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WDM: Right, timely communication is key, especially information that helps retailers sustain their business even through shortages.

Alex: Yes, and that’s our goal. We formally survey, through third party, our entire wireless dealer community every year and ask for feedback. What can we do better? What communication tools work for you? The reality is while not much has changed in that world there is evolution. A lot of them are working in a real time environment and they’re focused on the deal du jour, but they also know that if they don’t have product they can’t make money. They’re sensitized to that and we try to be prepared as we can to make sure that doesn’t happen.

WDM: Is there anything else independent wireless retailers should know about Ingram Micro Mobility?

Alex: Looking at reverse logistics as a profit center versus a cost center is very important, they all need to recognize that if they don’t already. Through developing the right tools to self-serve, or a combination of engaging a third party like Ingram Micro Mobility are absolutely the things they should be evaluating, so on the topic of reverse logistics I think what you are doing with focusing on the Wireless Repair EPXO are spot-on.

We touched on pre-holiday sales, and other peak selling times; I think making sure retailers are aligned with their distribution partner is a big win whether they’re one or two stores, or fifty to a hundred stores.

The way retailers do that can take on a lot of different forms, but two-way collaboration communication is critical to ensure best preparedness, to optimize selling seasons.

We touched on what Ingram Micro Mobility is today compared to BrightPoint yesterday. We’ve got a much bigger balance sheet and access to many more assets; but it hasn’t changed the way we engage with our channel partners, especially the independent wireless retailer. Without that channel our business would be significantly less relevant in the only industry that we as Ingram Micro Mobility serve.

WDM: Sounds like, even though you are now Ingram Micro Mobility — a much bigger company, you haven’t lost the BrightPoint human touch, the secret sauce that made BrightPoint so special previously.

Alex: That’s exactly right. I wear a suit to work every day, but under my dress shirt is a BrightPoint t-shirt! I think that’s true with many people in our offices. n

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality “AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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Blowout Deals!

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How ScrewMat became one of

the most

popular mobile device repair tools

By Tony Baker

Mobile device repair still requires skill and attention to detail. Even the most advanced technician is forced to organize the disassembly process. It’s just too easy to misplace and drop tiny screws that need to find their way back into a device.

The latest tablets, phablets and phones are held together with several pin-sized screws. This, of course, enables the sleek look and hightech feel people love to see and experience with their devices. While we appreciate the engineering of these sleek devices, when it’s time to repair them it can be difficult, if not impossible to stay organized without a map or plan.

ever.

both technicians and D.I.Y. consumers to keep track of every screw and small part required to remove while repairing a phone.

Anyone who has attempted to repair iPhones and Androids know just how many tiny pieces are involved. A modern day cell phone technician will have to remove between 10 and 40 screws to get into a device, depending on the device and the component that needs repair.

ScrewMat ™ offers exactly that: a simple, easy to follow magnetic sheet with a picture of specific devices that illustrate and highlight the screw and small part locations for easy placement and perfect organization. It has improved organization and efficiency, reduced unnecessary stress, and allowed

The iPhone, for example, utilizes multiple types of screws like Pentalobe, Flat and Phillip style screws. Getting them out is not particularly difficult, but organizing the variety of screws during the repair is an entirely different story.

Lost screws and phone components can slow a repair job down or keep you from feeling the assembly was a complete success. The guys at ScrewMat, however, have come up with a ingenious solution for these all too common problems.

“ The ScrewMat is a magnetic illustrated guide. Each guide is color-coded to keep each part orderly during disassembly and reassembly.”

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The ScrewMat is a magnetic illustrated guide. Each guide is color-coded to keep each part orderly during disassembly and reassembly. When you take a screw out, you simply place it on the adjacent spot on the ScrewMat. The magnetic sheet holds the screws and small parts from sliding around until you are ready to put the device back together. ScrewMat has customized more than 20 different designs for the hottest and most difficult models to repair. ScrewMat has a model available for every iPhone, IPad, and iPod including several different Android phones, most notably the Samsung Galaxy line.

ScrewMat is currently creating new models to further assist the efficiency of repairs done by a growing number of businesses trying to teach and grow their expertise in the repair industry. Each ScrewMat goes through rigorous design and testing before being released to the public to ensure each ScrewMat is trustworthy to lead technicians down the right repair path.

The ScrewMat was invented and developed by Phone Doctors. Phone Doctors is a mobile device repair company headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma. For 10 years Phone Doctors has worked tirelessly to share their advancements and make phone repairs more simple, efficient and affordable for customers.

Phone Doctors was born out of necessity. Alex Iser, founder and CEO, recognized in 2004 that the majority of cellphone users broke or damaged their phones prior to the end of their 2-year contract. Replacing an entire handset out of contract was too expensive for many consumers. Since then, the team at Phone Doctors has worked to develop tools, procedures and even software that has continued to revolutionize the phone repair business. ScrewMat was released in 2010. It is now available through over 25 authorized wholesale suppliers and distributors worldwide. The ScrewMat ™ can be found through major retailers such as Amazon and eBay, as well as through ScrewMat.com.

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On the Radar: 10 Companies

making waves in wireless

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Solarcomm Wireless is one of the largest wholesale distributors of cellular phones in the Southwest. They boast over 17 years of experience in the wireless industry continuing to serve their clients with outstanding customer service and top quality assurance. Solarcomm Wireless still believes that “the customer is always right,”

My Parts Factory was established to simplify the life of a cell phone repair shop. repair shops are constantly struggling to find a parts provider that consistently has the parts in stock, at the right price, and great service to go along with it. My Parts Factory was founded specifically to address those problems and to be the GO-TO source for replacement parts for iPhone, Galaxy, and other leading smartphones. Daily shipping cut off time is 6 PM c ST. WDM readers are invited to visit MyPartsFactory.com/ c TIA and receive $100 off your first purchase.

that they should get what they pay for, and most importantly, Solarcomm recognizes the importance of creating and maintaining long-term relationships. Specializing in Verizon phones, dealing in new, carrier return and refurbished phones. For more information, please contact Sales@Solarcomm.com or 1-866-SELL-PHONE.

Tel 516 694 1100

Along with the advancement of the cellphone repair industry is the increasing demand for proficient tools that will service every technician’s need. Equipment will exceed expectations with cellrepairtools.com, as your one stop shop, from screwdrivers to hotplate machines to high imagery microscopes. Providing technicians hundreds of premium high quality, efficient, exceptional tools and equipment that will empower their cellphone repair skills to their highest dynamic potential. At cellrepairtools.com, they help you bring it back to life!

GSM WHOLESALE

Wireless center is a

We have a wide variety

!!!! Contact us, We can be your

ICS PREPAID.com

Attract and retain customers

At ICS Prepaid, their belief is to help retailers increase, retain and reward loyal customers using a Mobile APP for Free! The partner program gives any participating prepaid wireless store a listing in the Loyalty APP, with an opportunity to pilot a custom e-commerce store in Facebook.

Large quantity of iPhone 5S Grade A Stock

Bulk lot of Galaxy S3 a in as is

Prepaid RefillNow.com makes this an attractive solution for prepaid wireless stores and could possibly usher in a major change in the way Master Agents help build their partners’ businesses. For more in formation visit ICSprepaid.com

With the gro wing competition, wireless stores are facing, what has your Agent done for you lately?

i Apple Phone 5 C Samsung Galaxy S5 Samsung Galaxy S5 Mini Samsung Galaxy S4

leading supplier of GSM unlocked phones worldwide

fulfill demands with our physical inventory

of colors and models in stock with terrific prices

Cell phone supplier !

We supply and

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AccessoryExportWholesale.com

My Parts Factory was established to simplify the life of a cell phone repair epair shops are constantly struggling to find a parts provider that consistently has the parts in stock, at the right price, and great service to go along with it. My Parts Factory was founded specifically to address those problems and to be the GO-TO source for replacement parts for iPhone, Galaxy, and other leading smartphones. Daily shipping cut off time is 6 PM TIA and receive $100 off your first purchase.

As smart phones become a crucial necessity of daily life, why limit yourself with just one over-priced case? You can now easily and affordably match your phone case with your daily outfits, whether it’s business attire or going on a night on the town.

recognizing the need for affordable cell phone accessories, Will and Laura Land created Accessory Export, LLc in 2003, supplying the world with great cases for the right price. With over 10 years of dedicated service and quality products, Accessory Export, LLc created the EMPIrE® brand in 2011 and now proudly introduce the new 2015 Signature line of cases. These 9 beautifully designed and unique cases keep your smart phone protected with the durable Diamond Knit™ material. It’s the protection you need with the style to compliment your closet.

GSM WHOLESALE

Wireless center is a leading supplier of GSM unlocked phones worldwide

We supply and fulfill demands with our physical inventory

We have a wide variety of colors and models in stock with terrific prices !!!! Contact us, We can be your Cell phone supplier !

So, stop sticking with the same boring case! Switch out your style with EMPIrE® Signature! Great case. right Price™.

Large quan

Bulk lot of

Every business has its own unique success story, as does Mengtor Inc. Established in 2009, Mengtor is a wholesale distributor of cellphone parts that started off with just two guys; rising with the growth in the wireless industry, gradually earning its name as one of the most preeminent cell repair parts distributors. Today, Mengtor houses the largest selection of cellular parts in the market from the top cellular brand names, expertly providing technicians the convenience of dealing with a single source. Mengtor values and recognizes the importance of time with which technicians must deal, which is why they focus on the availability of the products, from the tiniest screw to the most complex, hard-to-find part - Mengtor has it. Mengtor strives to stay on top, serving clients with great customer service, quality assurance and prices worth every penny. Mengtor.com

Tel 516 694 1100

Fax 516 694 1103

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Compares.

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So, stop sticking with the same boring case! Switch out your style with EMPIrE® Signature! Great case. right Price™.

Nothing Compares.

Nothing Compares.

success story, as does Mengtor Inc. Established in 2009, Mengtor is a wholesale distributor of cellphone parts that started off with just two guys; rising with the growth in the wireless industry, gradually earning its name as one of the most preeminent cell repair parts distributors. Today, Mengtor houses the largest selection of cellular parts in the market from the top cellular brand names, expertly providing technicians the convenience of dealing with a single source. Mengtor values and recognizes the importance of time with which technicians must deal, which is why they focus on the availability of the products, from the tiniest screw to the most complex, hard-to-find part - Mengtor has it. Mengtor strives to stay on top, serving clients with great customer service, quality assurance and prices worth every penny.

Mengtor.com

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Overstock Wireless is the one of the mobile industry’s most complete auction platforms for mobile phones, tablets, data devices and accessories. With no bidding fees and daily auctions of various sizes, Overstock Wireless provides all registered users private access to exclusive product offers. All products listed are from P tested and processed according to objective criteria.

Your source for ALL GSM Mobile Phones

V-Telecommunications Inc. was founded in May 2004 with a view to complementing the activities of other companies within the V-Telecommunications Inc. The founding director of V-Telecommunications Inc has over 15 years industry experience in the telecoms industry, allowing the company to meet the current challenges of the marketplace.

Untitled-1 1

• c ore products include:

• OEM NO lock or logo GSM Mobile Phones Products

• Network Operator GSM Mobile Phones Products

• refurbished GSM Mobile Phones products

• Mobile Accessories and related products

All of V-Telecommunications Inc. phones are run through their quality control team before they are put into inventory. They specialize in the distribution of new and refurbished phones such as SAMS u NG, LG, APPLE, BLA c KE rrY, MOTO rOLA, SONYE r I c SSON, H uAWEI, ALc ATEL, PANTE c H and more. V-Telecommunications Inc. carry a variety of GSM mobile phones, products for wholesale, retail store distribution & E-commerce. c urrently serving over 30 states with over 500 active accounts, as well as exporting to Asia, Latin and c entral America Market. For inquiries or any further information please contact (718) 788-4250.

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by Laurette Veres

Choosing the Right Phone Repair Parts Supplier:

RecommeRce the new ecommerce

How

to Make

the

Right Choice and the Harsh Consequences of Failing to do so

Keeping up with tech is tough. Enough new consumer electronics hit the market each year that, when considering the choices, you ask, “Isn’t there an app for this?” You’re not alone in your confusion. Like most other consumers, you’re in a race to stay up on new product releases. And you’re losing — losing time, losing money.

Jamil Hindi, president and founder of

Quality Repair Parts

The ‘Un-official’ Grading System

... reCommerce is here ... It’s changing the way business is done.

Good thing, then, that reCommerce is here. It may not be an app, but it’s a solution. It’s changing the way business is done. ReCommerce flips the script on your relationship to tech by helping you get money for old devices for purchase toward new. Think of it as trading up or trading in.

ReCommerce Wins the Future for Consumers

all profiting from this emerging industry. Demand is so great for this revolutionary market solution that online-only reCommerce sites such as Gazelle, uSell, and Glyde are thriving despite not having any physical locations or face-to-face interaction with consumers. So great is consumer trust in these companies that people mail in their valuable devices in hopes of realizing the estimates they were quoted online.

ReCommerce redefines what it means to consume goods. In 2012, eBay reported that over 112 million users around the world participated in and benefited from the reCommerce industry. This global secondary market amounts to an impressive 500 billion dollars. Consumers across the world can now turn to this innovative industry and market solution thanks to the trend gaining popularity among national retail chains.

The world’s highest-profile companies have embraced reCommerce. National retailers such as Walmart, Best Buy, Target, Staples, and Waste Management are

The reCommerce industry is keeping pace with the latest technological developments in consumer electronics that fuel demand for its services. New players in the industry are emerging with a dual approach of both online presence and physical locations. NextWorth and Sourcely.com stand as two examples of a market-changing combination of online and in-store transactions. Target is a national drop of center for the buyback program powered by NextWorth, and Sourcely is on a mission to equip any brick & mortar retailer across the world with technology to engage their customers in reCommerce.

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A History of Innovation and Excellence

Forrester Research Chief Executive George Colony first coined the term reCommerce in 2005. Colony referred to reCommerce as a solution to shelf-life issues of consumer electronics because of the rapid updates in product features and functions. ReCommerce now refers to the market practice of selling back obsolete or undesirable products to a vendor. ReCommerce simply means that today’s waste is tomorrow’s future profits.

The trend has proven so popular that market analysts are exploring the psychology behind it.

The

Issue

With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

Reverse logistics has proven such a success because it moves goods from their usual final destination to buyers in emerging markets for the purpose of capturing maximum value. The process also allows the continual application of market research even after the product has been sold, effectively minimizing losses and maximizing financial investment.

The future is in reusing today’s hottest electronics. ReCommerce allows consumers and retailers to embrace this trend with ease. n

ReCommerce offers the perfect answer for consumers continuously looking to own the latest product. Americans, themselves a sizable market share, change their smartphones every 22 months. That’s why retailers are also embracing reCommerce. They can offer customers a discount on the sale of new products while profiting from the resale of the trade goods. Together these consumer and vendor behaviors are fueling the steady growth of the reCommerce industry. It’s no surprise that reCommerce is currently the fastest growing sector of the eCommerce industry.

ReCommerce Unites Global Markets

What are the retailers doing with all the inventory being traded? Where, in other words, do the devices end up? Most devices being traded today end up in two places: overseas in emerging markets or parted out for phones in the United States.

This represents a larger trend in consumer and market relations. Many retailers are turning to reverse logistics to quickly offload excess or unwanted inventory while maintaining healthy returns. Traditionally this inventory was re-sold in stores or on such popular online marketplaces as eBay and Craigslist.

But with operators wanting a faster way of moving products and eBay banning the sale of bad IMEI (International Mobile Station Equipment Identity) and iCloud-locked devices, operators are gladly turning to reverse logistics as an effective market solution.

Consumer Behav I or r eport

trendwatching.com released a report outlining three main consumer behaviors behind the reCommerce industry.

Nextism

Describes a class of consumers who must have whatever product is deemed best and latest. This class basically hops from one trend to the next.

Statusphere

Describes consumers whose status is defined by their shrewdness in acquiring the latest device upon release.

Excusumption

Describes consumers who use reCommerce as an excuse to buy guilt-free branded premium items. ReCommerce created a marketplace where such items can be sold for a price deemed reasonable by these consumers.

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

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00 We Buy Used Cell Phones $300 for each phone & pay up to Some phones have no value. See current purchase price list for individual model prices at www.pacebutler.com for EVERY cell phone sold to PaceButler BOOK! WE DONATE AN EDUCATIONAL 5915 NW 23rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73127 since 1987 We issue your check within 2 days! Here’s how to do it! Come see us at Booth 2023 170

by WDM Staff

The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

Unirex LaUnches high speed Memory Products

FThe “AA Grade” Screen - This is the most commonly sold screen on eBay, Amazon or any other high-volume online retailer (This grade of screen is further discussed in the next section of this article). The Grade AA screens have a defective rate of 12% or more. The most noticeable defect on Grade AA screens is in the quality of the LCD. Grade AA screens have a noticeable blue or yellow tint. Many of the screens in this category will not fit perfectly flush onto the device.

or thirty years Unirex Corporation has been a part of the consumer electronics industry. Located in Vernon, CA, Unirex Corporation’s motto is to deliver quality products and to maintain inventories on hand, for prompt dispatch and delivery.

As the technological age progresses, Unirex who has deep roots in the audio and video space, has now added a full line of memory products to their lineup. Unirex will debut its first exhibition during CTIA2014™ Super Mobility Week at the Sands Convention Center in Las Vegas this September and will proudly introduce their memory line of products to the wireless community.

Established in 1985, “we have come a long way since magnetic media, and I mean humanity as a whole” says Mr. Bijan Neman Director of Marketing at Unirex Corp. “However we take pride in providing the consumer with the tools that they require whether for work or leisure.”

“The Unirex philosophy is founded on excellence in customer service. That begins with prompt and on-time

delivery. It also encompasses seamless and attentive care from our staff of professionals, from the time the order is placed until the product is delivered.” When we asked Mr. Neman about competitiveness in pricing, he replied, “what is of value to us, is the relationships that we establish with our clients. Maintaining competitive

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

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pricing for our products is an essential part of that; however, we never compromise the quality of our product or our customer service, to gain lower pricing.”

Among the products that Unirex will be exhibiting during Super Mobility Week are Micro SD and SD Cards. A variety of adaptors to convert the Micro SD/SD format for use with computers and tablets and smartphones, an array of flash drives, and some that can be considered as fashion accessories! All in the full scale of the various capacities, from 4 to 128 gigabytes. They will also feature new to the lineup,a full line of UHS1 (Ultra high speed SD products).

The packaging options that Unirex offers range from small (4”X4.5”), to medium (5”X7”), which helps reduce shrinkage,

to club (8.5”X11”) sizes. The package designs are modern, coherent, and attractive. What is also very interesting is that nearly the entire range of the products are available in the various packaging options, and at minimal lead times. Unirex Corporation displays a thorough product line with their customers’ needs in mind to maximize their profitability.

In our discussion with the Unirex management team, the consensus is that Unirex Corporation is very comfortable in the consumer electronics industry. To quote Mr. George Demirchyan, a Unirex sales associate: “Everyone here feels at home in this arena. We are all very excited about the technological advancements and the opportunity to apply our expertise in this new direction.” n

when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

We warmly welcome Unirex Corporation to their first exhibition during CTIA2014™ Super Mobility Week. Wishing them much success as they cross over into the wireless community.

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

For more about Unirex, visit www.unirexmemory.com or email unirex@unirex.net

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

Visit Unirex at Booth #3470

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WDM P ROD uct Re VI e W

By WDM Staff

Fourth quarter is upon us, can you hear the bells ringing already? As we prepare to plow through the most exciting quarter of 2014, what will your customers look for this season that beats last year’s signature gift? Innovation continues to open our sensory experience to the world in ways we didn’t even dream possible putting 3D design in our own hands, photo printing in our pocket, fitness monitors on our wrists, and GPS trackers on our pets. What will be the perfect gift this holiday season for the techie-enthusiast in your life who already has everything? – Or thought they had everything...

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Oculus Rift’s latest prototype features positional tracking, an OLED screen and kills motion blur

Oculus VR has taken a huge leap forward, eliminating the stomach-churning motion blur that has plagued previous generations of VR headsets, and adding sensors and a camera to track the position of both your head and body and provide more accurate simulated movement. With the Rift, Oculus has created a device that may usher in in an era of truly immersive gaming and entertainment, and even create new opportunities for businesses to use virtual reality in everything from manufacturing to medical environments. -- Marc Perton, Executive Editor CES

Intel Smart Wireless Charging Bowl

Say goodbye to tangled cords and hello to the best charging invention around! Finally, someone noticed the fumbling and frustration that comes with handling a mess of cords for various devices. Simply set a tablet, phone or wireless accessory into the 10 inch diameter bowl and charging begins.

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Mophie Space Pack

Where have you been all my life Space Pack? With the chance to get thousands of songs and tens of thousands of photos more with this mobile assistant. this super hero case has a built-in battery that touts double battery life, and storage available in 16 or 32 GB versions for iPhones. Videos, pics and files can be stored locally within the case instead of using space on your phone.

LG Lifeband Touch

Fitness fanatics rejoice! the LG Lifeband touch is a swipeable wristband that will track and display how many calories you are burning and notifies you of incoming calls with vibrations. this device is versatile enough to support both iOS and Android phones, and it can even sync with some thirdparty fitness apps.

BluCase Earbuds Case

the Blu c ase “ u niversal” lightweight, durable and water-resistant earbuds carrying case is available in several colors and can be custom made to fit any design, pattern, or logo. Place the earbuds inside and wind the cord around the retainer space like a “YO YO” and simply push the case closed. e quipped with a built-in belt clip that easily attaches to purses, gym bags or backpacks. Never worry about pulling tangled or broken earbuds or earphones out of your pocket or purse again! the best way to carry around earbuds and earphones is in a Blu c ase protective case.

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Wobbleworks 3Doodler 3D Printing Pen

You may never want to leave the house again with this fun and unique new gadget! Simply draw in the air and voila, your drawing becomes reality… in plastic. there are five nozzles that each produce their own outcome. With only your imagination to limit you, this freestyle fun will revolutionize your freetime.

iPro Lens System

If the only complaint you have about your iPhone, Galaxy S4, or iPad Mini is that the camera leaves much to be desired, then you need look no further than the iPro lens system. c ontained within a pocket sized lens case are varied lenses to meet all of your photographing needs. e ach lense simply twists to attach, so you will feel fine about leaving your clunky camera at home.

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LG Pocket Photo Smart Mobile Printer

LG is relying on inkless technology with its new and amazing pocket sized printer. the mobile printer works by using a heat process to produce superior quality photos. thankfully compatible with Android and iOS smartphones, this is the lightest portable printing device available.

Rhino Shields

Rhino Shield has developed a self adhesive, clear protective shield for iPhones that are impact and scratch resistant. Your device will take on superhero characteristics as it becomes almost indestructible. Rest well, your phone is now safe.

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Misfit Wearable Shine

What a fresh take on wearable fitness devices, the Misfit Shine is a gadget that keeps style in mind. the device is versatile enough to be worn as a pendant, bracelet, necklace or armband and syncs with iOS systems to track fitness stats. You can even share data with friends and invite them to compete with your best stats.

Micro 3D Printer

If you can dream it, then you can print it with the Micro 3D printer. this incredible gadget is meant to bring 3D printing to the masses. You will no longer experience the limitations of living in a 2D tech world.

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360Fly Camera

Small and portable, the 360Fly camera films in 360 degrees horizontally, and 240 degrees vertically. this gadget will easily capture the the world around you, and make it simple to share your flicks using Android or iOS. e asily attaches to helmets, bikes,and more.

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In1 Case

If carrying a pocket knife seems bulky or impractical, then the n1 c ase may be just what you have been looking for. With hidden slots in the hard case, you can have access to pens, phillips and flathead screwdrivers, scissors, and more. Your smartphone has never been so handy.

HereO

Function and fashion combine to provide an easy way to check up on your kids. Not every moment, of course, but just when the situation arises. Your adolescent can practice telling and keeping track of time, while you can easily keep track of them. Any family member with a smartphone can sync with the family location map. Water resistant and intended for daily wear for up to 50 hours between charges.

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Livescribe Echo Smart Pen

This is by far the smartest pen available!! This handy gadget has storage to host 400-800 hours of audio, which can be recorded while simultaneously writing. But even better is that this pen can save the written notes for later transferring to a device.

BEDDIT

WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING BEDDIT TRACKS:

Total sleep time - Sleep cycles; Deep and light sleep duration

Awake Times - Heart rate - Ambient sound, snoring

NexStar Evolution 8

“This robotic WiFi telescope is the coolest app-cessory in the galaxy” - WIRED.COM

Celestron’s signature telescopes reach a new level with NexStar Evolution 8, the first Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with integrated WiFi. Locate all the best celestial objects and center them in the telescope’s eyepiece with a tap of your smartphone or tablet. Connect your device to NexStar Evolution’s built-in wireless network, and explore the universe with the Celestron mobile app for iOS and Android. Use the planetarium interface to view the night sky in real time or display a list of celestial objects currently visible based on your time and location. Our proprietary SkyAlign alignment procedure is built right into the Celestron mobile app, so you’re ready to observe within minutes.

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Withings Pulse O2 Monitor

Android and iOS compatible, this wearable device will accommodate any level of fitness and lifestyle. the Withings Pulse O2 works to record number of steps taken, elevation climbed and calories burned. But at night is when the most attractive traits can be relied on, as this will monitor sleep cycles, and measures your blood oxygen and heart rate. Information provided will help you get to know yourself better.

Nike TR1

SleepPhones

If you have ever struggled to fall asleep or go to bed in different locations due to traveling, Imagine the difference this gadget could make, SleepPhones boast headphones in a snugly fitting cozy headband. c hoose from your own relaxing audio to help reduce noises and start resting.

Pressure sensors and accelerometers serve to measure every movement that happens while wearing the Nike t R1 shoes. A remarkable 40 hours of use with one charge. Sync with apps to track performance, share workouts with friends, and ensure proper foot positioning for optimal health.

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TomTom Multi-Sport Cardio

this clever device goes beyond just monitoring vitals and wants to push you to improve your fitness. this acts like more of like a personal trainer that tags along with you everywhere. In addition to the typical heart rate monitor, this training partner helps you train more efficiently by relying on screen graphics and three individual training modes.

Parrot Mini Drone

Now you can annoy your neighbors like never before! u se your iOS or Android device to control this small drone. Device managed controls are intuitive and simple for most to use. the tiny drone is sure to provide hours of mischevious fun.

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Expo Notes

the Ring is true to is name, a silver ring meant to fit your index finger. though this jewelry connects to your iOS or Android smartphone and enables a simple wave to communicate a host of information. e ven trace the letters in the air to compose a text. You will be alerted of incoming media and can flick your finger to turn on appliances or enable mobile payments.

Speck e xclusive

Horn Design

Amplified Sound Out

Sound In

CandyShell Amped

Music lovers it is your lucky day! c andyShell Amped believes in getting loud, and this handy case more than doubles the iPhone speaker sound. No need to bring even the most portable speaker with this carefully crafted sound amplifying case, it will blow you away.

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Samsung Gear 2 Neo

Samsung has developed their own interpretation of a wearable, with their take on a vitals measuring smartwatch. the Neo is lightweight, has changeable bands and can be used to make and receive calls and texts without relying on your smartphone. this smart watch is resistant to dust and water and brings your music along for wireless enjoyment.

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LG GFLEX

LG has released a curved screen smartphone, that can sustain a little bending. But the most awe inspiring feature is that the LG G Flex has a selfhealing back panel that will automatically repair minor scratches and cuts on the back, the future has arrived.

Adidas MiCoach Smart Soccer Ball

though you already missed competing in the World c up, you can always start brushing up on your skills for next year. Developed with sensors throughout, this ball connects to your iPhone and reports details and makes suggestions to improve your kick, spin and foot plant.

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Choosing the Right Phone Repair Parts Supplier:

How to Make the Right Choice and the Harsh Consequences of Failing to do so

By Jamil Hindi, president and founder of Quality Repair Parts

The

‘Un-official’ Grading System

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The

Issue

With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

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A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality “AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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Looq Looq

The World’s First Battery-free Extended Selfie Arm with Button

The new Looq remote shutter appcessory and app is the company’s flagship development and makes taking self-portraits easier. No longer will travelers feel embarrassed asking strangers to take pictures, or worry that a stranger may run off with their pricey smartphone. Looq is the world’s first, battery-free shutter pole extending from just 5.5 inches to 24 inches, allowing photographers to take perfect photos of themselves and a friend or two from almost any angle – and fit in a scenic background if desired. The plug-and-play pole’s sturdy design is capable of holding up to a dozen iPhone 5s’ on its end, ensuring that every phone is safe during photography sessions. And better yet, self-portrait takers everywhere will rejoice when they realize that there is a way around that awkward “selfie”arm found in most every smartphone, self-portrait picture because the photoshutter is activated by the push of a button on Looq’s handle. Photos can be taken one at a time or in a burst-mode when multiple photos are preferred. The Looq also includes a mirror to help frame photos when the rear-facing camera is being used. No more reaching, tilting or bending. Looq is the answer to these picture “imperfect” problems. The easy-to-download app is available in the iTunes and Android stores and allows the shutter pole to connect with the phone for onestep self-photography.

For more about Looq System products, visit looqsystem.com

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by DANIELLE CASSAGNOL

Choosing the Right Phone Repair Parts Supplier:

How to Make the

Right Choice and the Harsh Consequences of Failing to do so

SPECIAL WIRELESS DEALER MAGAZINE SNEAK PEEK:

By Jamil Hindi, president and founder of Quality Repair

Parts

WINNING AT WIRELESS RETAIL GUIDE

TThe ‘Un-official’ Grading System

he Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® has released the Winning at Wireless Retail Guide, a comprehensive guide which draws on the experience of CEA partners, vendors and retail owners to train management and employees at wireless businesses. Commissioned by CEA’s Wireless Division, the easy-to-read resource includes input from leading executives at Best Buy, Brightstar, Celluphone, The Retail Outsource, Retail Business Development, Verizon and more.

From basics to details, the Winning at Wireless Retail Guide is filled with realworld practices to create a knowledgeable team and sound wireless retail strategies and provide ways to add more to your bottom line. The guide is organized into four different categories of insights and success stories: “Your Customer,” “Your Team,” “Your Store,” and “Your Business.” Broken into easily-accessible tips and actionable articles, the guide can help you create the right approach for your customers, your team, your stores and your business’ success.

The Winning at Wireless Retail Guide is now available for download at CE.org/winningatwireless. Below, find a special, sneak peek of information just for Wireless Dealer Magazine from the “Your Business” section of the guide:

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YOUR BUSINESS

The idea of everything in this Winning at Wireless Retail Guide is to help put more money in the bottom line. The business is about the customer, the team and the brand but it is ultimately judged by the numbers. Let’s jump into some sample excerpts from the, “Your Business” section:

If You Fail to Plan, You Plan to Fail

Sales do not increase, labor does not find its appropriate level and inventory does not manage itself by wishing it. It takes a plan. The plan will change, but you must first have a plan.

The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

some in the same POS system that will assist in handling bills, cash flow and P&L statements. You must decide if accounting is a department you should tackle in addition to your other responsibilities, or perhaps hire someone or outsource the role to focus on bigger tasks. The reports and technology can help make those decisions.

Marketing

Knowing the history of the store’s sales, labor, and inventory costs will allow you to forecast for the present and prepare for growth realistically. Start with a high level plan and break it down into yearly, monthly, weekly and daily plans. These plans should be reviewed daily and changed as needed to meet needs. The goal is to manage the three largest variables — sales, labor, inventory.

The Winning at Wireless Retail Guide provides more helpful information within the guide on setting realistic goals and how to break them down by the day, as well as team member.

Leveraging Technology: The Point of Sale (POS) System

The technology in the customer’s hand is changing fast and so is the technology available to the business leader. Using the tools available can save money, time, and stress. POS systems are more than a calculator and cash drawer. They can receive inventory, releasing it with every sale. The physical inventory counts can be entered into the same system and cross referenced with the sales report. The discrepancies can then be researched. The same POS system can track trends in accessories and devices to help forecast sales and labor.

The POS system can also act as the time clock, calculate payroll and notify accounting departments of paycheck and commission amounts. There is accounting technology,

There is no magic formula for marketing. Experiment and record what works and then improve it. A good marketing plan looks at your store’s core audience in a 15-minute drive or walk from the front door. A senior citizen discount would not be effective in a college town. Know the customer, identify their needs, and offer them the best plan to match those needs and get their attention. Plan and budget the year for marketing and plan the details 60 to 120 days in advance.

There may be co-op marketing funds available for the asking. Talk to carrier and product reps and see what money might be available. A co-sponsored marketing campaign or event is still advertising for the store.

Radio and Television

Radio and television ads can be effective depending on the area, but can also be quite expensive. Local cable television can be more cost effective. The same ads can be broadcast across the Internet using social media and video sites, then link your updates and in store ads to reference them. Use QR codes to demonstrate on the devices in the store as part of the presentation. Announce to the local media an event or the store’s community involvement. A local news story can be a positive reinforcement of the great things the store is doing.

Traditional and Digital Marketing

Print advertising can be costly. Area newspapers reach a broad customer base. Look at different outlets and decide if they would be more effective. School papers and community newspapers have a lower cost, can more

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

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directly target your customers and show community involvement. Many apartment and townhouse complexes place a welcome bundle in a newly leased or sold home.

Direct mail can be effective when targeted. Target where and who gets the direct mail and keep the message simple. Collect and record the returns to judge the effectiveness. Email lists can have the same result as direct mail with much less cost and no licking stamps. Get email addresses in the store and request email addresses on the website. When emailing customers and potential customers, be sure the opt-out option is simple and easy to find.

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality

Consider digital. Write blogs on your website to announce promotions, new products and community involvement. Use search engine optimization words and phrases to appear in Internet searches. The goal is to appear as close to the top of the list as possible. It is beneficial to pay to be the first on the list. Search “Samsung Repair” and hundreds of sites and blogs will appear. How far down is your store’s site? What can you do to get it higher? The more often that phrase appears in the blog and on the website, the higher your site becomes. The more traffic your site gets, the higher your site will appear on the list.

Loyalty and Referral Programs

Loyalty programs are a way of saying thank you to your existing customers. Get their email and mailing information at the register and send promotions for additional discounts, products and special VIP events. They feel appreciated and more likely to become your store’s advocate. Referral programs, giving the current customer a new accessory or money toward their monthly bill, can bring new customers.

Coupons

Coupons can be created for all types of discounts and VIP services. Think outside of the normal. What will

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

get your community’s attention? A coupon for free training on their new device or redeemable for a donation to a community or school organization may be better than 20 percent off their purchase. With all promotions, they must be easy to understand with an expiration date.

Special Events

The goal is to get customers in the store and for the team to sell. Creating and sponsoring events are great ways to build awareness of the store. Long term, these same customers will return when they need a new phone, an accessory or an add-on. Steal good ideas. What kind of events have worked in your area? Take what worked best and make it better.

Event Sales

Event sales can differentiate you from the competitors. Look at the organized events in the community. Setting up a booth with limited inventory, a computer, and an Internet hot spot creates a portable store. Cases to keep their phone safe at the event and backup batteries for when their phone dies in the middle of their day out are great sales. Have a few power cords available and offer to charge people’s phones. There is the greeting. Now the team can build rapport and qualify any needs they might have. Like the four walls, the portable store should be professional and inviting. Invest in a tent and table clothes

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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The “A Grade” Screen - Slightly better than Grade B, the Grade A

The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

Without a doubt most parts used in the industry

printed with the store’s name and logo. Use the same colors to create an extension of the location the customer knows.

section of this article). The Grade AA screens have a defective rate of 12% or more. The most noticeable defect on Grade AA screens is in the quality of the LCD. Grade AA screens have a noticeable blue or yellow tint. Many of the screens in this category will not fit perfectly flush onto the device.

Examples of events in the community include: school events, farmer’s markets, tradeshows, marathon/race events or fundraising events. The Winning at Wireless Retail Guide provides additional examples and ideas.

Preparing a Forecast

Gather all historical information for the store. Form a spreadsheet. Each category can have different spreadsheets. To get the simplicity of it, look at the top line sales to forecast what the sales and labor will be in the near future. The Winning at Wireless Retail Guide provides a forecasting worksheet to work from.

When forecasting, look at the previous week and month. How much more or less has the store been doing than the year before? Now look how the store has been trending compared to the week before and the month before. Are sales up or down?

such high volume retailers prior to partnering with us.

approach does not take into consideration the massive hits that a repair shop’s bottom line takes due to the use of such inferior parts. Let’s explore why.

Use a “Notes” section to record any anomalies to record for the next year. If there was a large event in front of the store, the sales and labor may have been abnormally high and not what can be expected this year. If the road flooded and no one could get in or out of the parking lot, the sales would be abnormally low. You would not want to forecast sales using abnormalities.

Monitoring Inventory

Have an investment plan. Know which vendors will extend credit and how much the budget allows for inventory. Order more often to stay stocked without extending over the plan. Do not order based on one team member saying one customer asked about a product. Several requests are worth looking into. One request may be worth the research but ordering may not be the right decision for the store and the area. The store may not need to have every device on the market and every accessory for every device. Monitor and manage the assortment in the store.

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

Find more in the Winning at Wireless Retail Guide, on vendor inventory strategies.

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PREVENTING CHARGEBACKS

P&L

Most managers have plenty of experience reviewing and completing a P&L statement, but it is important for the team to understand what it takes. It is not necessary to make this public or have them review it, but a general understanding of getting the store successful is needed. It is simple to tell the team to watch security or increase sales or turn the right lights off at night, but understanding operations make them a partner in the well-being of the store.

In the Winning at Wireless Retail Guide, there is a sample P&L for review and to compare with the one the store currently uses. The guide also looks more in depth at forecasting, managing cash flow and setting a budget.

Managing Carrier Commissions

When commissions are missing, charge backs are counted against and incentives are not there, they add up to dollars out of your bottom line. It is important to keep an account of these. Know when the reports go to the carriers and when the checks should arrive. The carriers send commissions up to 90 days, and sometimes later, after they are reported. This makes it difficult to track what is owed and the mistakes. The carriers make mistakes, but they are not going to search for them.

There are companies that specialize in commission reconciliation to help businesses with subscription based services. The carriers are a maze, how they want things filed, how the reports read, and where the money goes. These experts on commission have specialized in translating that information and comparing it with individual store’s reports. They file for commissions and co-op dollars to each carrier’s specifications the right way for the right amount the first time, find the mistakes the carriers make by comparing the reports and handle the appeal process. This can add up on the bottom line each month.

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

A chargeback is money returned to a carrier or held from the retailer for broken contracts. It is a double loss. The store loses the cost of the phone subsidy and the carrier commission. Sometimes it is a triple loss if there is no chargeback for the individual team member’s commission.

The best way to battle cancellations is to prevent them. Customers leave contracts due to regret of purchase — due to need or budget — or feeling they were misinformed or lied to. Prevent a cancellation before starting a purchase. Present the right device, the right products and the right plans to the customer at the beginning. Do not sell the one with the highest commission or the highest value if it does not have the right value for the customer. They will feel lied to and conned by another typical salesperson. Tell them everything attached to the phone and the bill. Explaining the bill, add-ons and government taxes will save the shock value.

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality “AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

The customer does not see the government fees as different from the store’s fees. The store told them $50, now the store is requiring $75. The information at the beginning gets agreement, not a future shock and feeling of distrust. It is easy to get caught in the buying moment. Flashing lights, bells, whistles, a couple phone games, and a sales rep talking about all the cool things it will do is hypnotizing. People make bad decisions every day. Decisions they do not need or cannot afford. Get agreement for the right device. Telling the customer a device is not the right one for them can build trust. If they still want to buy it, let them. Use the “you said…” statements to emphasize the right decision for them. Call the customer in the charge back timeframe to be sure they still love their purchase, that it was everything they hoped it would be. Offer additional help and training for their new device. Ask if there is anything else they might need and if there is anyone they may know who would benefit from having a similar device or plan.

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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What’s New?

The

DOWNLOAD YOUR COPY

The Issue With Parts from High-Volume Retailers

The full, Winning at Wireless Retail Guide provides expanded information in the “Your Business” section and covers additional topics such as:

n Influencing Sales

“AA Grade” Screen - This is the most commonly sold screen on eBay, Amazon or any other high-volume online retailer (This grade of screen is further discussed in the next section of this article). The Grade AA screens have a defective rate of 12% or more. The most noticeable defect on Grade AA screens is in the quality of the LCD. Grade AA screens have a noticeable blue or yellow tint. Many of the screens in this category will not fit perfectly flush onto the device.

New products are launched all the time and it is hard to know which will be the next superstar. You are the retailer; you should have a plan to be prepared for the wireless version of this same frenzy. On rare occasion, there will be a line at a device’s launch, dozens of people camped outside the door waiting for a key to turn. But normally, it doesn’t happen. But a popular device that leads to popular accessories is realistic. There are ways to predict. Look for the marketing. What is being hyped by the media? Look through the trade magazines and see what devices keep appearing. Manufacturers send thousands of devices to be reviewed by magazines, newspapers and Internet blogs. This is not cheap. To spend that type of money, they expect big things from it. Ask the manufacturer and carrier reps what the next hero product is, what the devices are that are being pushed in their training and sales incentives. These are the ones they will push with advertising. Be sure to have those devices and the accessories to go with them. The customer will find it somewhere else if not in your store. Know the launch dates. It is not helpful to have the phone cases for the newest hero product two weeks after everyone has them. Be prepared on day of launch to promote the device and the accessories to go with them. Sell down the devices and accessories that will be impacted by the new models. Use specials for the customers and spiffs to the team to get the impacted models off the shelf before the newest model gets to the shelves. Once the newest model arrives, it is more difficult to sell the back stock of the previous model, no matter how many or how few improvements are made on the device. n

n Benefits and Importance of Communicating the Goals

n Planning Labor

n Planning and Managing a Schedule

n Inventory

n Subsidy Management

n Counts

n Ordering Just in Time

n Cash Flow

n Budgets

n How Does the Carrier See You?

n And More

In addition to “Your Business,” other sections of the guide include: “Your Customer,” “Your Team,” and “Your Store,” as well as additional exercises and examples to bring all of these topics to life.

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

The Winning at Wireless Retail Guide is now available for download at: CE.org/winningatwireless.

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Please call or email our sales department for more information. 1.866.735.5746 • 480-945-3505 • Fax: 480.945.5531 Sales@Solarcomm.com • www.solarcomm.com We also offer Sprint, Page Plus and AT&T phones. HTC Nokia Motorola iPhone Samsung LG Casio 204

by JONATHAN S. MARASHLIAN

FAIR WARNING To All Telecommunications Resellers

Choosing the Right Phone Repair Parts Supplier:

How to Make the

FCC Enforcement No Longer the Exclusive Domain of the FCC; Outside Agencies and Agents Now

Right Choice and the Harsh Consequences of Failing to do so

Perform Much of the Dirty Work

By Jamil Hindi, president and founder of Quality Repair Parts

OThis article is directed at informing those currently in, or considering entering the growing phone repair industry about the variety of avenues in which a repair shop owner may pursue in obtaining repair parts.

ver the past several years, our firm has witnessed a major shift in the way the Federal Communications Commission’s (“FCC”) Enforcement Bureau: (A) uncovers possible violations of the Communications Act and FCC Rules and (B) develops the evidentiary records used to trigger a Notice of Inquiry and support eventual Notices of Apparent Liability for Forfeiture and other enforcement actions. Historically, FCC enforcement actions were initiated in one of two ways, either through an Enforcement Bureau initiated investigation on its own motion or in response to a complaint. In recent years, however, the Enforcement Bureau has increasingly relied upon outside agencies and governmental agents to “dig up” the proverbial “dirt.” The two primary excavators are Team Telecom and the Universal Service Administrative Company (“USAC”).

The ‘Un-official’ Grading System

companies considering entry into the regulated telecom, VoIP and non-interconnected VoIP industries, awareness that the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau is watching through the eyes of other governmental agents will dissuade unlawful operations and actions, prior to receipt of all necessary FCC authorizations.

USAC — You can run,

but

you can’t hide…

We believe that industry awareness of this developing trend is important. Knowing, in advance, that the disclosures your company may be asked to disgorge during a USAC audit or Team Telecom national security review (when seeking a 214 Authorization or approval of a merger / sale of assets) could lead to potentially significant fines & forfeitures from the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau will help companies that are already in the market avoid making careless mistakes. For new

USAC is an independent non-profit company designated to administer Universal Service Fund (“USF”) programs. The Internal Audit Division, responsible for identifying areas of non-compliance with the Universal Service Fund program, issues final audit reports that are automatically referred to the FCC. The FCC often uses the information gathered during the course of USAC audits and documented in USAC’s audit reports to open up parallel investigations of possible Communications Act and FCC rule violations. What is unearthed during a USAC audit will often times be used as the evidentiary foundation of a Notice of Apparent Liability for Forfeiture (“NAL”).

In July 2009, for example, USAC referred a report to the FCC “for potential enforcement action,” alleging that “Globalcomm had failed to comply with the Commission’s rules requiring Telecommunications Carriers to contribute to the USF.” The FCC soon after issued a Notice of

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Apparent Liability against Globalcomm for violating FCC rules. Globalcomm ultimately entered into a consent decree with the FCC, agreeing to pay a voluntary contribution to the Treasury Department for $537,127. USAC-referred investigations and enforcement actions will continue, and it is important to be aware of the risks and expenses associated with such actions. Non-compliance with USF rules may result in an unfavorable USAC audit, which can easily be converted into an enforcement action at the FCC.

But you don’t have to be audited by USAC before you find yourself standing before the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau staring at an NAL. As detailed in our Client Advisory, USAC recently adopted a policy that is certain to ferret out companies that have operated unlawfully prior to registering with USAC (which, eventually, all service providers find themselves doing).

The

To avoid these adverse consequences, we urge all companies considering entry into the U.S. telecommunications, VoIP and non-interconnected VoIP markets to ensure registration with the FCC and USAC prior to beginning operations.

“An ounce of prevention” really will save your company a “pound of cure.”

Team Telecom — National security (and a whole lot more)…

USAC’s Form 499-A Initial Registration (and Filer ID procurement) process has always required service providers to: (A) disclose the month and year in which they first provided telecommunications or interconnected VoIP services and (B) certify the truthfulness of the information contained in Form 499-A under penalty of perjury. Until very recently, USAC would issue a Filer ID even if the service provider disclosed a “start date” prior to the current year.

The second group of governmental agents used by the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau to investigate unsuspecting service providers is known as “Team Telecom.” Team Telecom is a joint task force comprised of agents from the Department of Defense, Homeland Security, and the FBI. It is responsible for conducting national security reviews of foreign-owned (10% or greater foreign ownership) telecom providers and providers of international services

In recent years, however, the Enforcement Bureau has increasingly relied upon outside agencies and governmental agents to “dig up” the proverbial “dirt.”

or infrastructure. A Team Telecom review is triggered if a company applies for a 214 License or seeks Transfer of Control / Asset Sales approval from the FCC and an applicant is directly or indirectly owned by a non-U.S. citizen or foreign company.

Under the new policy, however, USAC will no longer issue Filer IDs in these circumstances. Instead, USAC will withhold issuance of a Filer ID pending the applicant’s submission of 499-As for all prior reporting periods. And, of course, evidence of prior period illegal operations will be reported by USAC to the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau.

The core purpose of Team Telecom’s reviews remains squarely focused on national security issues. However, over the past several years it is impossible to ignore the increasingly broadened scope of Team Telecom’s fact gathering and investigative peering, often times into areas that bear little resemblance to national security concerns. Inquiries into a service provider’s Customer Proprietary Network Information (“CPNI”) procedures, Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement (“CALEA”) compliance, questions about unlicensed operations, and even digging into issues such as marketing

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

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practices, consumer protection, and false advertising have now become part of the process! It’s hard to conceive of a legitimate national security concern that is associated with a business’ marketing practices. The only reasonable explanation for fact-gathering and investigation into marketing is that Team Telecom is being used by the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau to perform investigations on its behalf, to make the Bureau’s job simpler and more efficient, and – of course – to save the FCC money in the process.

Team Telecom coordinates and communicates with the FCC during the review process, so it should not be surprising to find out that much of the information collected by Team Telecom is shared with the FCC –in real time. Why share information about possible violations of FCC rules if the purpose isn’t, ultimately, to pursue enforcement against the alleged violator?

It is unclear where this false impression got started or how the lie continues to be propagated, but the stark truth is that, in the eyes of the law, a “Reseller” is treated no differently for regulatory purposes than its underlying provider.

where this false impression got started or how the lie continues to be propagated, but the stark truth is that, in the eyes of the law, a “Reseller” is treated no differently for regulatory purposes than its underlying provider. Indeed, the regulatory and tax duties of a reseller can be even greater where the reseller is also the retail provider of services to end-user customers.

What makes Team Telecom’s investigations troubling is the lack of public rules governing the scope of the task force’s authority. Team Telecom does not have specific authority from Congress and instead acts under the broad umbrella of the Executive Branch’s “national security” apparatus. There is very little transparency associated with its investigative process; and without transparency and without procedural rules, it is a very real possibility that Team Telecom can stymie market entry and create delays that interfere with your ability to engage in M&A activity.

A word to the wise – when entering the “black hole” that is Team Telecom, be confident in your ability to safely navigate your way out. And the best way to be confident is to make certain you are compliant with applicable rules, regulations and laws.

Wireless Resellers… VoIP Resellers… Beware!

A common misperception in the telecommunications industry is that a “reseller” of another carrier’s services is not required to directly comply with the FCC’s licensing, registration and compliance reporting obligations if they are paying fees & taxes to their supplier. It is unclear

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

At the FCC, there is clear FCC precedent that the Enforcement Bureau and agents, like USAC, apply when evaluating the compliance shortcomings and otherwise determining the fate of an un-licensed, unregistered reseller.

For example, in a 2007 NAL and Forfeiture Order, the FCC fined wireless reseller, InPhonic, nearly $820,000 for failing to register with USAC, obtain a 214 license, and comply with the USF, TRS and other federal programs. The FCC explained the importance of these rules:

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality “AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

“ We view InPhonic’s apparent failure to register for over two years as a serious dereliction of its responsibilities under the Act and our rules. A carrier’s compliance with the Commission’s registration requirement is critical to the administration of the USF and TRS programs, and accomplishment of Congress’ objectives in sections 254(d) and 225(b)(1) of the Act. …[A] carrier’s duty to register upon entry, or anticipated entry, into interstate telecommunications markets is essential to the fulfillment of the USF and TRS program missions because it identifies the company to the various program administrators and brings the company within the purview and oversight of those administrators. If a carrier never identifies itself as a telecommunications provider by

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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properly registering under the Commission’s rules, then neither the Commission nor the various program administrators can ascertain whether that carrier has fulfilled other regulatory obligations, including the requirement that carriers file Worksheets and contribute to USF, TRS, and other regulatory programs.”

More recently in May of 2013, provider of fixed wireless and resold VoIP services, Believe Wireless Broadband (“Believe Wireless”), found itself appealing USAC’s assessment of over $8,000 in late filing fees, resulting from late-filed Form 499s. In its appeal letter, Believe Wireless states it was under the disillusion that its payment of Universal Service Fund fees that were invoiced to the Company by its underlying supplier of Interconnected VoIP services were sufficient to ensure its own compliance with FCC Rules:

“ When we first started offering VoIP service we were just reselling another company’s VoIP service and on the bill of the company all of the required fees were charged to us for the service. It was our erroneous understanding that by paying the fees, we were in compliance.”

As mentioned, Believe Wireless’ belief system regarding the lack of any direct FCC regulatory (and, one might

presume, State PUC, State & Local tax and 911 fee) obligations from the Company’s “resale” of a third-party supplier’s VoIP service (or, for that matter, other forms of telecommunications resale, including wireless), is not

uncommon. Many small telecommunications businesses enter the telecom market utilizing the “platform” of another service provider, reselling services under their own company or brand name. Because these small businesses (often times lacking even basic knowledge of telecommunications laws and regulations) find themselves paying regulatory fees and taxes to their suppliers, they sometimes make the mistake of concluding that their legal obligations to federal and state governmental authorities are either covered by or handled by their suppliers, i.e., as a consequence of paying the supplier’s invoiced fees, taxes and surcharges.

In reality, resellers of telecommunications and Interconnected VoIP services are subject to a broad array of direct regulatory and tax compliance responsibilities that, by law, can neither be pawned off on nor contracted away to third parties. Furthermore, underlying wholesalers are often powerless under the law to “comply on behalf of” their reseller customers, even if the wholesaler wanted to assume the burdens for its reseller customers.

While it is possible for regulated service providers to outsource certain compliance responsibilities via contract, it is impossible to shed all risk of exposure resulting from compliance failures. Your officers and directors are on the proverbial “hook” and remain exposed to fines, penalties and imprisonment, even if the service provider hired a third party or pays its supplier to comply on behalf of the company.

Important Takeaways

The bottom line is that if your company is a foreignowned carrier (wireless or wireline) that is either: (A) seeking entry into the U.S. market or (B) looking to sell or buy a 214-licensed carrier or regulated assets, then you must be aware of what’s hidden in your closet before applying. Chances are pretty good that the dirt will come out during the course of a Team Telecom national security review.

If you are a domestic, U.S. provider of telecommunications (wireless or wireline), VoIP or non-interconnected VoIP services or are otherwise required to obtain a Filer ID

Another instance in which the use of non-“AAA Grade” parts obtained through high-volume retailers

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from USAC, think long and hard before starting up operations in advance of registering with USAC. If you operate under the misimpression that it is “OK” to operate for a year or so before registering with USAC, and that

Coming

from a lawyer,

it might be easy for some readers to

obtain the greatest value out of their relationship with our professionals. More often than not we find that this “value” is far greater and more rewarding when our clients succeed and stick around for the long-haul.

dismiss the cautionary warnings in

this article as hyperbolic exaggeration. Some might even accuse me of “Crying Wolf” in order to gin up business. But neither could be further from the truth...

USAC will be forgiving when you do apply, think again. It is a near impossibility to provide telecommunications services in the U.S. without the necessary FCC authorizations and registrations and walk away unscathed financially.

Coming from a lawyer, it might be easy for some readers to dismiss the cautionary warnings in this article as hyperbolic exaggeration. Some might even accuse me of “Crying Wolf” in order to gin up business. But neither could be further from the truth, because both claims ignore the basic economic reality of the legal profession, which is that an “ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” In other words, it is far less costly to comply with the FCC’s licensing & registration requirements than it is to hire a lawyer to clean up a messy enforcement action, engage in other remediation work, or pay off the government late fees, penalties and potential forfeitures & fines (which start in the hundreds of thousands of dollars). Lawyers and law firms derive far more revenue from defending clients in investigations and enforcement proceedings than they do procuring licenses, registrations and regulatory approvals – which is exactly why you will rarely see a lawyer alert prospective clients to the risks of unlicensed, non-compliant operations. They figure you may not be willing to spend a few thousand dollars to ensure compliance now, but when cornered and coerced into compliance remediation by a governmental agency, you’ll be willing to write a blank check.

Don’t get me wrong, I’ll gladly accept a blank check too! But our firm also takes great pride in helping clients

Returning parts to sellers from these highvolume outlets is almost impossible. Keep in

A client that comes to a lawyer to get it out of hot water will leave once the water cools (but only after spending a great deal of money to put the fire out under the boiling pot). A client that hires a lawyer to watch over the stove, manage the heat and keep the water from rolling is typically a client for life.

Jonathan S. Marashlian is the Managing Partner at Marashlian & Donahue, LLC, The CommLaw Group, a Washington, DC-area law firm specializing in federal and state telecom and technology matters. Marashlian is the winner of two 2013 and 2014 Lexology/International Law Office (ILO) Client Choice Awards, named overall winner in the Telecommunications Law-US category; his firm was named Leading Customer Service Law Firm of the Year and Best Communications Law Firm in the US by ACQ Awards. Mr. Marashlian can be reached at JSM@CommLawGroup. com or by visiting www.CommLawGroup.com.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should not act upon the information in this article without seeking professional counsel.

A s our customers know, a reality of the phone repair business is that by spending a couple dollars more on high quality “AAA Grade” parts, your bottom line will actually increase because you will avoid the issues described above. Keep in mind that many suppliers, either intentionally or through lack of knowledge, claim that their screens are of a certain grade, but when tested against the grading system we compiled above, they often fall below their claimed grade. It is crucial that a repair shop that desires longevity only use parts that they will be proud to stand behind.

ATTORNEY ADVERTISING: This article may be considered Attorney Advertising in certain jurisdictions. The determination of the need for legal services and the choice of lawyer are extremely important decisions and should not be based solely upon advertisements or self-proclaimed expertise.

For more information about Quality Repair Parts or the contents of this article please visit www.QualityRepairParts.com.

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HOW TO EXPAND YOUR RETAIL REPAIR BUSINESS OR START ONE TODAY

The truth is the mobile device repair industry is not for the faint of heart. If you’re looking for an easy business, turn to a self-serve yogurt shop, but if you’re looking for sustainability and growth keep reading.

With any successful business comes an intelligent recipe of processes that are designed to facilitate and manage a business for efficiency and scalability. McDonalds for example has inspired and led the franchise movement by creating highly efficient systems that are simple to use and designed to streamline their fast food operation. The results are a very controlled and explosive growth.

“A business cannot grow without proper planning and learning how to overcome operational struggles. You have to identify the hurdles, develop the systems, train the staff, and manage the operational goals effectively for growth.”

~Alexander Iser, Visivity

With over ten years carving out their wireless repair business, Phone Doctors has been investing and building these effective and efficient management systems to enable and control their retail growth. Now, this system that Phone Doctors has been using is finally ready to launch their franchise business with the assurance that franchisees will get the most of

their investment and the right tools for the job. In addition, they have also started a new company, Visivity, to help other repair business owners and entrepreneurs enter the space.

Visivity is a cloud-based point-of-sale and business management system that has specific features for the mobile device repair business. The system allows a mobile device repair business to track inventory, sales and repairs, and pretty much everything in between. Visivity offers a turn-key solution that streamlines an operation. Think of meshing a customer management tool with a point of sale system, then add on inventory management and a completely integrated repair tracking solution. That is, essentially what Visivity does in one software system.

The cloud-based software also allows owners and managers of the store to gain a better snapshot and understanding of the day-to-day workings of the operation, regardless of whether or not they’ve stepped foot into the store(s) that day, week or even month. Because the software can track workflow, it allows employees to get work done more efficiently with less stress.

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REPAIR TICKET

Visivity helps you track every point of the repair process. With the repair ticket we make it easy to collect customer, device, and repair information. The repair ticket and repair process have been developed to optimize time & save you money.

REPAIR QUEUE

This is the heads-up display for the repair technicians. At a glance, you are able to see all repairs pending, waiting on parts, or waiting on customer contact. The repair queue is automatically updated & prioritized as devices are logged into the system.

CUSTOMER PICKUP

Finished with the repair? When you process the device to the pickup area your customer is instantly notified via text or e-mail. We will even show you how to create an organized pickup area with our Visivity Pickup Bins.

BUYBACK TOOL

Never again will you miss the opportunity to buyback a used device for a profit. With the visivity buyback tool you can purchase devices from customers to be processed for parts, refurbish, or re-sale. We will even show you how to locate the current buyback and resale rate for the device.

RE-CONDITION TOOL

Auto adjusts the cost of a device when using in-stock repair parts. This is basically a separate repair queue for technicians to re-furbish and re-condition your buyback inventory. The Visivity re-condition tool will update the cost of your inventory based on parts used during this process.

CUSTOM REPORTS

Use a pre-built report or customize your own. Choose from: Sales, customer, inventory, & more. Reporting is extremely important to the continued success of your business. We take reports seriously and are always introducing new search filters to help you optimize your mobile repair business.

INVENTORY TOOLS

Keep a birds eye view on your inventory. Track in-stock items, manage costs, sales, & re-order points. RMA & missing items tools are also found here. You even can export your inventory as a .csv file or print audit sheets whenever you want.

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The mobile device repair industry has thousands of parts, accessories, and devices to deal with. With these items that also have good street value make it tempting for employees to skim and sell online and on the street. With this reality, inventory control is extremely essential to a healthy operation. Visivity has crossed their t’s and dotted their i’s to help minimize the risk of employee theft, which by the way is 3 times greater than shoplifting according to the SBA. Having a good handle helps you retain more profits for the contribution and continuation of your growth.

Visivity has also gone into great detail to customize and build the Manufacturer, Model, and Parts availability list, so that you don’t have to. Just plug in the sales price and quantity and you’re good to go. Visivity also wants to help their subscribers by recommending organizational strategies and products that are proven, inexpensive, and highly effective. The Visivity concept streamlines all systems within the store(s), making sure employees and management can focus on their true passion; taking care of the customer.

To recap, the success of a company rests in it’s foundation. Visivity has spent over 20,000 hours building a foundation so you don’t have to. Visivity is a welcoming and dedicated staff that wants to share and serve every mobile device repair outfitter, no matter how big or small and they are ready to help you today.

Visivity is now available with a 30-day risk-free guarantee for qualified entrepreneurs who want to expand their mobile device repair business or start one today. For more information, please visit: http://visivity.com

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216

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V-Telecommunications

. p . AA

TSSI INC USA p BB

KCI Wireless

p . CC

Abmnus p 23, 24, 57,58

AccessoryExports/Empirecase p 60, 133

All PRO Distributing

Mengtor (MTAO) p 139, 140

Mobile Defenders p 50

Mobile-net/EXPO Mobile

. p 41, 42

Apple N Berry p 42

Best Soldering School

. . . p 10, 11

My Parts Factory p 67

OEM Source Inc

p . 31

BlackStone p 66

Callture p 16, 17

Canadian Wireless Tradeshow

. . p . 143, 155

Cell Phone Parts, The Inside Front Cover

CellRepairTools .com

. . . . p 81, 82

Ontrion p 1, 21, 22

Pace Butler p 170

Palmer Promo Products .

. p . 101, 102

Parktel p 138

Patriot Memory

. . p 71, 72

Cellular Repair School p 31, 43

CES/CEA p 211

Clearvision .

215, 216

CTIA p 29

CVE Group

p 130

PCS Wireless / Overstock Wireless p 117, 118

Phone Doctors p 38, 55, 56

Q-Wireless Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . p . 51

Qpay p 91, 92

Quality Repair Parts

p . 42

Digital Treasures/Turtle p 18, 19

E-Great USA Co p 156

E Tech Parts

p . 36, 109, 110

Red Pocket Mobile Back Cover & p 2, 3, 38, 39, 40

Reiko Wireless p 63, 64

Repair Depot, The

p . 31, 33, 34

ETrade Suppy p 44, 45, 46

EZ Check Pay Corp

FEsco Distributors/Charge Works p 79, 80

FIFO/ MyMe p 165, 166

Forever Collectibles .

p . 65

Global Direct Parts p 44

H .L . Dalis/Wireless Accessory Zone

. . . p 106

H2O Wireless p 6, 7

KCI Wireless p 190

Ice Mobility

Cover & p 4, 5

iDistribute p 44

iDropped

p . 47

iRefurbish p 47

iWalk p 131, 132

KCI Wireless

p 190

KIKA Enterprises p 218

LCDcycle

37, 38, 196

LCD Direct p 48

Lunex Telecom p 68, 83, 84

Maya Networks

p 48, 49

MCE Systems p 48

Mega Tel Wireless

p . 12, 13, 61, 62

p . 52

RepairQ p 50

Sahara Wireless, Inc

p . 107, 108

Surelink p 69, 70

Smart Device Doctors/Family Talk p 142

SolarCommWireless

p 204

Sourcely p 145, 146

Tech Medic

. p . 36

TESSCO p 51, 52

TJM Innovations, LLC /Bandshell p 99, 100

TNF Distribution

p . 52

TSSI INC USA p 53, 54

Unirex .

p . 173, 174

US Connections p 59

UVA Mobile p 14, 15

V-Telecommunications

p . 20

Valor p 8, 9

Via Play

p 189

Visivity p 32

Walls + Forms Inside Back Cover

Wholesale Gadget Parts

. p . 54

Winner Wireless p 25, 26

Wireless Center of New York

. . . p 134

Wireless Xcessories Group/Phone Surgeons p 32, 35, 217

Worth Avenue Group p 54

Wireless Dealer Magazine Headquarters Houston, Texas For advertising or subscription inquiries, please call toll free 1 (800) 862-2609 or visit WirelessDealerMagazine com

Wireless Dealer Magazine is published quarterly as an independent, wireless industry publication in Houston, Texas Written materials and requests may be mailed to: Wireless Dealer Magazine 1217 Prince Street, Houston, TX 77008 [not responsible for any unsolicited materials] For advertising or subscription inquiries, please call toll free 1 (800) 862-2609 or visit WirelessDealerMagazine com

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