Wireless dealer magazine summer 2015 edition by Wireless Dealer Magazine

FEATURED INSIDE

The New Frontier: Lines between human and technology begin to blur

See you in Vegas!

over the biggest names in the Smartphone industry. The launch in Africa was the Company’s biggest

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coupe, having found a market that was very ill structured and chaotic where the element of Smartphones which were affordable and rarely available, leaving it with the pricy market leaders as

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iDROID USA – Although New but surely a darling among mobile phone outlets

Trickling from Philadelphia to Houston iDROID USA is quickly becoming a household name all across America and certainly a darling on store shelves among retailers and distributors, rapidly growing

believe we have everything a market leader should have and more,” says Jawad Qureshi, Co- Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of iDROID USA.

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1 0 0 0 1 10 0 00 010 1 10 11 0 00 0 00 1 0 010 1 10 1 10 00 100 1 10 10 00 FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK 0 001 1 11 0 010 0 011 10 01 100 10 0 1 0 0 Dear Readers, 0 1 0 1 11 11 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 The human side of technology is once again on the 00 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 cusp of getting even more interesting. Spawning new 1 0 00 0 1 conversations about the social impact technology 01 00 0 10 1 has on our lives, we find ourselves at another 1 0 1 0 11 0 0 crossroad of an unchartered territory in human 01 0 1 11 1 0 behavior. Technology tracking our every move: 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 wearables, biometrics, sensors, and more. Who owns 0 01 0 0 1 11 your data? How much are you willing to share? 11 0 0 1 0 0 0 Will we always know when it is shared? Will we really 0 00 1 1 10 be better off for having shared it? 0 0 1 11 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 Marketers are forever hungry for this data. Data 10 1 1 10 0 collected monitoring your Internet search patterns, 0 0 1 1 your social media friends, your online purchase 11 1 0 0 patterns. Today, they are interested in data 0 00 collected by wearable technology. Tomorrow 0 1 1 embedded technology. When we run out of human 00 0 01 data to track, perhaps marketers will track data 1 1 1 transmitted between things, thanks to the growing 11 0 conversation and developments in the Internet of 00 Things (IoT) emerging technologies. 1 00 11 According to a recent white paper from a company 0 00 called STRAP, the world’s first human analytics and leS011tseB yaintegration diloH •platform for marketers, good marketing, 0 matter how much data you have, is successful & 1s0nalP wno eN • when it resonates with its targeted audience. 10 0 Great marketing hinges on a killer story — one that is 1 sharable, relevant, and contextual. Human data has opened up more potential for personalization than 0 ever before. It is up to brands to weave that data into 1 beautiful stories worth sharing. 1

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A LETTER In a talk at SXSW 2015, leading wearable technology and fashion expert, Jennifer Darmour, presented three overlapping aspects of the future of wearables that brands should start to ladder up to: Utility: capabilities of technology   Emotion: aligning brand to technology Meaning: solving real problems that improve our lives Wearables have clear capabilities to improve our lives and brands can be the catalysts for that. As the anticipation of this next wave of innovation builds and the lines between human and technology begin to blur, the real trends are fundamental. Technology that solves real problems and marketing that creates authentically relevant connections to the brand will be the winners in this new frontier. We look forward to seeing you at another blockbuster show, during CES® 2016, January 6-9 in Las Vegas. There, we can see how technology is changing our world. Cheers,

Michelle James CMO

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EDITORIAL INDEX

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A PEEK

into the

FUTURE

Selling Technology Still Requires the Human Touch...At Retail

Be progressive in creating the in-store experience, using modern-day technology while providing prompt service, all the while knowing a customer’s needs before they even enter the store.

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Unlock Your Full Potential With Paypal

Collaborate with the right payments partner to help streamline and unify all your payment processing needs and enable business growth.

Millions of Dollars in Merchandise is Returned to Wireless Retailers Each Year

Implementing an efficient solution for returned and excess merchandise is a must is today’s business environment; a few points of margin can mean the difference between competing effectively and losing money.

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MILLIONS OF

DOLLARS IN MERCHANDISE IS RETURNED TO WIRELESS RETAILERS EACH YEAR

... most of which can’t go back on the shelf due to diminished item condition, damaged packaging or product obsolescence. No matter the reason, that’s a significant amount of idle inventory taking up backroom space and subsequently costing money. Today’s retailing environment is intensely competitive and a few points of margin can mean the difference between winning and losing; this heightens the importance of maximizing efficiency and return across all areas of the supply chain. Reducing internal costs in the handling of returned merchandise slated for liquidation is a critical piece of that puzzle. By getting smart about the secondary market and implementing an efficient liquidation solution for customer returns and other excess, obsolete wireless inventory – either in-house or through a solution provider – you can optimize the monetization of this merchandise.

[ by MICHELLE JAMES ]

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Impact your overall business margin with a few efficient solutions.

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Taking a look at some of the new approaches being used. Other wireless retailers, with their excess inventory, can also provide clarity and direction. Many have opted to build customized, private-label B2B liquidation and wholesale marketplaces catering to business buyers. These marketplaces connect retailers directly to buyers via a branded, online auction platform, enabling the retailer more control over the entire process while protecting how its returned and overstock inventory enters the secondary market.

There are questions you should ask yourself when implementing a solution for your excess merchandise.

Are you reaping maximum financial benefits?

Make sure you aren’t relying on a solution that creates apparent efficiency by making inventory disappear quickly, but only at the huge cost of getting much less for it than you otherwise could.

Does it provide the control you want?

It’s important to retain control over who is able to buy your excess inventory and how your brand enters the secondary market.

Are you building a strategic advantage for your company?

025

While excess inventory might have little value inside your company, it has substantial value to others outside of your business. By getting smart about the secondary market for your products through data and buyer analysis you’ll create a strategic advantage.

Is the solution adequately flexible?

The one constant in business is change; this includes priorities and goals with respect to liquidation. Make sure your solution is flexible enough to accommodate your business’ changing needs.

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No matter the platform, strategic, proactive management of overstock merchandise is critical and requires a dedicated and experienced team to manage it well. Every minute of time spent on back room handling of returned-merchandise transactions is a minute taken away from focusing on your core business functions. Sometimes the best choice is to work with a partner whose primary business is providing solutions for returned and overstock merchandise. The best partners will have a low cost structure, a great reputation among clients, extensive knowledge of the secondary market, and a data-driven, analytical and transparent approach.

Solution partner qualities to look for... Online marketplace expertise: It is not enough just to have a web-based technology platform. Such a platform must be well designed, flexible and scalable. More important, your partner must have extensive experience in managing marketplaces and developing strategies to maximize your results. Targeted demand generation: The best technology on the planet will underperform if you lack demand for your products. A good partner will have a proven track record of growing custom buyer bases interested a given type of inventory. Logistics services and support: Make sure the partner has experience working with a variety of third party service providers to ensure seamless integration. This should include hands on client support, logistics, inventory handling and warehousing.

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What’s more, the reverse supply chain is also a place where wireless retailers can support sustainability initiatives. Historically certain products, particularly damaged or salvage items, went straight to a landfill, but these days regardless of the condition of the returned product, there is a buyer base that exists that will facilitate either reuse or recycling. Implementing an efficient solution for returned and excess merchandise is a must is today’s business environment; a few points of margin can mean the difference between competing effectively and losing money. By approaching this obsolete merchandise as an opportunity (versus a headache), you can meaningfully impact your overall business margin.

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B-Stock Solutions powers the largest network of B2B liquidation marketplaces for Fortune 1000 retailers and manufacturers. Hundreds organizations, including one of the nation’s largest wireless carriers, have leveraged B-Stock Solutions’ technology and service offerings to sell over $1 billion in consumer returned and excess inventory.

For more information, please visit www.bstocksolutions.com or email supplysales@bstocksolutions.com

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Regardless of the condition of the returned product, there is a buyer base for returned and excess merchandise.

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Samsung has also incorporated multiple charging options into the Galaxy S 6 and Galaxy S 6 edge.

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YOUR FULL SALES POTENTIAL WITH PAYPAL Giving your shoppers payment options that allow them to pay how, when and where they want helps your business grow and keeps your customers coming back. This doesn’t mean you need to juggle a half dozen payment partners to offer online, offline and mobile transactions. The key is to collaborate with the right payments partner to help streamline and unify all your payment processing needs and enable business growth. That’s where a simple, one-stop-shop like PayPal can help.

[ by BY BRAD BRODIGAN, VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER OF RETAIL, NORTH AMERICA, PAYPAL ] 051

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PayPal is scalable for businesses of all sizes, services and products.

Particularly ideal for the wireless electronics industry because your customers are already using it. In 2014, 67 million consumer electronics shoppers spent more than $17 billion globally via PayPal, and the PayPal shopper is 26 percent more likely to have purchased electronics in the last four weeks than the average U.S. adult. The opportunities to grow your customer base and your businesses by optimizing how you accept payments are truly endless.

To help you get started, here is a quick guide on how PayPal can help you increase sales:

1 2

Simplify and secure your online checkout.

It’s important to offer a seamless and secure checkout experience to your shoppers. The more steps in your checkout process and the more form fields customers face, the higher the likelihood for cart abandonment – especially for high-priced items like electronics. On the flipside, simplifying your checkout experience by adding PayPal Express Checkout is proven to improve conversion rates and reduce cart abandonment. One Touch™ integration further streamlines the checkout process, and allows shoppers to pay without having to re-enter passwords after their first login, resulting in increased sales, average order values, customer adoption and loyalty.

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Go mobile.

According to a recent IPSOS study, mobile commerce is growing at three times the rate of traditional ecommerce and poised to make a significant breakthrough over the next few years. PayPal shoppers are already using their smartphones to make purchases, with $46 billion in mobile payments processed in 2014 alone. With One Touch™ you can get ahead of the m-commerce revolution by optimizing your mobile website or app checkout experience now, and allow mobile shoppers to check out conveniently and securely with just one touch.

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Think globally.

As more and more shoppers across the globe shop online, wireless electronic businesses in particular need to think globally when it comes to sales and marketing. The same study shared consumer electronics is the second most popular industry for international commerce – just behind apparel – making up 26 percent of all international online purchases. But between international customs, regulations, shipping and even language barriers, it can be difficult to know even where to begin.

Credit for you and your consumers.

As securing capital continues to be among the top challenges for small businesses, smarter, more flexible credit solutions like PayPal Working Capital and PayPal Credit are taking center stage to provide near-instant access to capital for businesses and their shoppers.

3 4 5

With PayPal PassPort, business owners can discover new market opportunities abroad, access tips and data on buyer behavior and get country-specific guidance on things like seasonal or holiday peaks, currency exchanges, shipping, customs and taxes as well as cultural taboos and trends. PayPal PassPort “really allows us to see the different marketplaces, how they interact, the customs,” said Chris Ko, owner of Nationwide Surplus – an electronics businesses that’s turned to PayPal to help them increase international sales. “[PassPort] allows us to say, ‘Okay this is a marketplace that we really want to explore and sell into.’”

For the wireless dealer that needs quick and simple access to capital, PayPal Working Capital offers loans in just minutes with clear terms, flexible repayment options based on your daily sales, no credit check, and one affordable fixed fee so your total repayment never changes. It is a proven way to help boost sales and manage cash flow.

In addition to leveraging capital, providing shoppers with flexible credit options like PayPal Credit – not only gives shoppers more purchasing power, but also drives sales. Based on a customer’s shopping history with PayPal, consumers can access to instant credit for high ticket items. A recent Forrester study found that offering shoppers this type of flexible credit payment option results in a 17-percent increase in incremental sales and 21 percent lift in average order value.

On-the-go? Take your business with you.

Your ability to make a sale does not have to be limited to a cash register or even an online shopping cart. A simple, portable card reader, a mobile device, and some software are all you need to literally take your business with you, thanks to solutions like PayPal Here. Whether you’re working the store floor or hundreds of miles away from the store at a tradeshow, with PayPal Here you can quickly and securely accept debit/credit cards as well as PayPal, record cash and check payments, send electronic invoices and send instant receipts all in one place.

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The key is to

collaborate, streamline and unify all of your payment processing needs enabling business growth using a simple, one-stop-shop like PayPal.

From online and mobile to new credit avenues, it is not hard to see that the entire commerce experience is changing and showing no signs of slowing down. As we move to the next chapter of payments processing, it’s important to work with an end-to-end payments partner that enables businesses and consumers to connect wherever, whenever and however they want – and PayPal can help you get started.

As PayPal vice president and general manager of SMB retail for North American, Brad Brodigan oversees all efforts to bring PayPal’s retail product experiences to small and medium retailers across North America, including marketing, creating efficient channels, and fulfilling demand for PayPal’s offline retail products, services, and devices.

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everything

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SELLING TECHNOLOGY still REQUIRES THE HUMAN TOUCH… AT RETAIL. TimeTrade recently conducted a survey of 1,029 consumers, which asked in-depth questions regarding their perceptions and behaviors around retail shopping. Here is an excerpt of their findings from “State of Retail 2015”.

Retailers must keep in mind that through the digital first touch all the way to the in-store purchase, it is all about the customer’s path and how to provide the best service across all these touch points. Creating a high-value, personalized interaction will lead to a more satisfying experience for the customer. The TimeTrade survey has revealed that various demographics have different shopping habits. Millennials are looking for products and service that is very focused on the individual, while Baby Boomers and Gen Xers have done much research and want purchase validation from an honest and transparent retailer. Though all have different shopping habits, what they all have in common is disposable income as retail sales continue to grow.

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Retailers are realizing more and more that the key to superior customer service is personalization.

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KEY FINDINGS FROM SURVEY

2.1 Key Findings

87%

Retail stores are still relevant: 87% of respondents to the TimeTrade survey plan to shop in stores at least as often as they did in 2014.

Consumers prefer to shop in-store: More than half (65%) of survey respondents report that if an item they want is available online or in a nearby store, they prefer to shop in the store.

85%

Drivers for shopping in-store: An overwhelming majority of consumers (85%) report they like to shop in the store because they like to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;touch and feelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; products before they decide what they want to buy. Once consumers are in the store, they are willing to spend: Nearly 60% of consumers prefer to shop in store when spending as little as $50 and as much as $200. And, 82% of all consumers surveyed will buy more than they originally planned to.

2.1 Key Findings (cont.)

42%

Mobile Shopping is slow to grow: More than 42% of consumers have never purchased something on their mobile devices and when consumers are looking to buy something, only 13% will make a purchase from their mobile device. Though mobile and online shopping trends frequent headlines, mobile shopping is not predominant: Most consumers use their mobile device only to browse for items (50% to research products, more than 60% to compare prices, and 46% to look for the nearest store location).

Traditional e-tailers open brick-and-mortar stores and consumers are welcoming with open arms: More than 70% of consumers would prefer to shop at an Amazon store versus Amazon.com

90%

Millennials can be a gold mine for retailers who get it right: More than 90% of 18-34 year olds plan to shop in stores as often if not more in 2015 as they did in 2014 and 92% will walk into a store either know exactly what they want or having narrowed it down to 2-3 products and 87% will buy more than they intended to when shopping in a store. Millenials look to meet in person: 25-34 year olds are more likely than any other age group to book online appointments.

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Target Retail Demographics as Revealed by the Time Trade Survey Defined as those born between 1980 and 2000, Millennials will make up one third of the population by 2020 according to the U.S. Census. • More than 92% of 25-34 year olds plan to shop in stores at least as often in 2015 as they did in 2014 • Millennials expect more knowledge from sales associates: 74% want to know the best value, 69% want to know the highest quality, and 62% want to know which product are most reliable

MILLENNIALS

• Of the 25-34 year olds making $100K or more, 100% will shop at least as much, if not more, in stores this year versus last

Defined as those who are born between 1944 and 1964. Baby Boomers are the largest demographic in the U.S. and they have the most money to spend. • Nearly half of US boomer internet users researched online before buying electronics • More likely to use “consumer websites and publications” and much more likely to cite these as “primary” sources • 89% of TimeTrade respondents between the ages of 55 and 64 indicate they like to shop in the store because they like to ‘touch and feel’ products before they decide what they want to buy

BABY BOOMERS

Defined as those born between 1965and 1979. • Respondents ages 35-44 were asked why they prefer to shop in the store, an overwhelming 91% of this age group replied that it was because they like to touch and feel things • A positive in-store experience is what will create brand loyalty for Gen Xers • Gen Xers are open to trying different distribution channels

GEN XERS 061

store location). Traditional e-tailers open brick-and-mortar stores and consumers W D M

are welcoming with open arms: More than 70% of consumers would prefer to shop at an Amazon store versus Amazon.com Millennials can be a gold mine for retailers who get it right: More than 90% of 18-34 year olds plan to shop in stores as often if

90%

not more in 2015 as they did in 2014 and 92% will walk into a store either know exactly what they want or having narrowed it down to 2-3 products and 87% will buy more than they intended to when

KEY FINDINGS FROM SURVEY

shopping in a store. Millenials look to meet in person: 25-34 year olds are more likely than any other age group to book online appointments.

2.1 Key Findings (cont.)

70%

the group controlling 70% of the disposable income in the United States.

Consumers want knowledgeable help: Nearly 90% of survey respondents are more likely to buy when helped by a knowledgeable associate.

Consumers today do much research online prior to going into the store and approach the in-store experience as the final buying decision: Nearly 90% of consumers are more likely to buy when helped by a knowledgeable associate.

50%

Consumers seek associates with expertise: 50% of respondents report what they value most in a sales associate while shopping is smart recommendations.

Consumers shop based on superior customer experience: 63% of respondents report that if an item is the exact same price at four different retailers, they will decide where to shop based on the overall customer experience they have in the store.

64%

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Baby boomers are spending as well: Baby Boomers are still

Knowledgeable help creates customer satisfaction: If a knowledgeable sales associate recommends items a customer may need or based on what the store knows about them, 64% of respondents report they will leave the store much more satisfied.

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Today the interaction of a tech-savvy customer is complex, convoluted and non-linear, traversing multiple different channels and touch points. To adroitly interpret customer preference and provide holistic customer experience, retailers are left with no choice but to stitch together customer data and more importantly customer interaction data spread across different channels. Today, most retailers’ channels operate in silos both organizationally and from a systems standpoint. Therefore it fails to project homogeneous single-entity brand awareness, up-to-date information and a unified look and feel, which disappoints customers.

BRIDGING THE OMNI-CHANNEL CHASM Retailers acknowledge that they need to understand their Consumer Behavior (cont.) customers’ individual experiences on a continuous basis as they interact with their organizations both on and offnet. This puts retailers in the best position to manage all the touch points that can affect the customer experience, including the web site, call center, mobile app, retail store, kiosk, etc. Today retailers’ goals should not be restricted to just creating loyal 3.2 Retail Convergence When asked if they would shop customers. They need to aspire to go beyond that and create The statistics by eMarketer, the Department of at an Amazon store, 71% of active advocates by creating a more personalized relationship with Commerce and TimeTrade prove that retail brick-andtheir customers that are context-driven in nature. In today’s social TimeTrade survey respondents mortar stores are still very relevant. Traditional e-retailers media-aware age, consumers have the power to make and break are well aware of this trend as they are now opening their reported they would prefer to a brand. Retailers thus need to build an emotionally weighted own retail shops. E-tailers who are known for their online shop in Amazon’s physical store relationship with each customer. Hence, providing a superior dominance, such as Amazon and Warby Parker, are in-store experience is an effective way to drive a more personal versus Amazon.com opening physical stores, starting in key markets. Amazon relationship with customers, as well as a means of gathering soon be opening its first brick-and-mortar store in The main driver for retail convergence is that purchase more information for a will customer profile which allows for more New York City, as well as multiple locations in California. behavior has changed. Consumers are now more personalized offers and consistent service across all channels in educated and now view the in-store experience as the the future. The primary reason these online giants are vertically integrating stores to the physical realm is because they understand that the personalized part of shopping (especially for highly personalized goods such as glasses) is very important to consumers and the in-store

Consumer Behavior

experience allows for such an opportunity. Also, with itsFOR entryU.S. into the smartphone market with its DISPOSABLE INCOME SHOPPERS

look to spend in

Fire phone, it is possible that Amazon is also setting up Figure 1. Disposable Income for U.S. Shoppers shop to model Apple stores and are looking to provide customers with a showroom that allows them to tryout online in-store products or have a face-to-face interaction with a store purchases purchases associate. Amazon is also known for its Kindle tablet and

g the state of retail, investigate retail

. Recent research

2014

kes a look at how

Amazon is a perfect example of the notion of retail $4050b

to be spending

arch reveals

ncome spent by

shop at an Amazon store, 71% of TimeTrade survey respondents reported they would prefer to shop in Amazon’s physical store versus Amazon.com (Figure 2). Also, 65% of respondents indicate that if an item they want is available online or in a nearby store, they prefer to shop in a store.

WOULD YOU SHOP AT AN AMAZON STORE? Figure 2. Would you shop at an Amazon store?

29%

$200b this would allow for display of these devices as well.

umers in the United

next 6 or 7 years.

final buying decision point. When asked if they would

Yes

71%

convergence, which is the converging of web and

2020

physical retailing. Retailers need to take note of this $550b

extremely important and growing trend.

e U.S. for brick-and-

$4900b

res will be $5 trillion

1).

s out two important

According to a recent report from

TimeTrade recently conducted its

etailing is going to

the U.S. Department of Commerce2,

own survey of 1,029 consumers

in 2014, e-commerce accounted for

regarding their perceptions and

han double, but the

money spending in

only 8.3% of total retail sales. In other

habits around retail shopping.

ny multiples of what

words, despite the rapid growth

Results indicate that more than 87%

even when projected

rate of the e-commerce market,

of respondents plan to shop in stores

063 11

W D M

and general availability --then making their final decisions in the store. Online retailers, like Amazon are adapting by opening their own retail stores, launching Amazon lockers, and getting into local real time delivery.” - Jeremiah Owyang, Founder of Crowd Companies

At the same time, 85% of TimeTrade respondents indicate they like to shop in the store because they like to ‘touch and feel’ products before they decide what they want to buy (Figure 3).

WHY DO YOU PREFER

SHOPPING IN THE STORE? Figure 3. Why do you prefer shopping in the store?

Not so long ago, when these social channels did not exist, a customer of a service or brand could communicate their positive or negative experience via word of mouth to an average of seven people; in today’s social media age, the same customer can reach out to 3.3 Purchase Behavior Has Changed thousands of people in a matter of moments. The more The fact that consumers preferrelationship, to shop at a physical positive that the more trusted the retailer Amazon store becomes versus online, when such and theAmazon more has successful the retailer is likely roots in e-commerce, is further proof that purchase to be at keeping the customer’s business, selling the behavior has changed. Purchase behavior hasover changed customer further services time and encouraging drastically overthe thecustomer past four years. What has the changed to promote retailer and its products primarily is that do most of their shopping toconsumers friends and associates. or “discovery” online. Shopping, as in, looking through

85%

merchandise, seeing whatthe sizecross-channel might fit, learningsilos aboutthat Bridging

exist today to create points that together electronics) and lookingaatseamless pricing andcustomer online discussion creates experience should be This has led to a new reality for retailers and what they rvey thestep shopping gets done. that critical in their questNow to deliver on a superior need to offer in the store. Previously, it was the idea that forums. This isawhere the consumer is highly educated, that is when they go to customer experience. Unifying cross-channel customer at after people would come into the store and shop and retailers the store for final purchase validation. experience is an evolutionary process. Retailers need 36% would display as many items as possible. Today the line before 30% to strategically embark on such a unifying effort with Consumer Behavior (cont.) physical store not only has to have physical goods, but Power ofPower In-Store Service Service hey have adequate planning. of In-Store now there is a shift in focus on the in-store staff. Store 6% different options or specificationsof(ifunified it is consumer a combination touch

ion down need help on

managers and store associates must have the right

Consumers today have never had more channel options. They continue to expect more seamless interactions that their final buyingand decisions. Associates abletoto I like to ‘touch feel’ products before I must decidebe what buy TimeTrade has discovered through its own research and and want mor hasloyalty discovered its own research andto learn build brand experiencesTimeTrade and boost andthrough retention. and wan answer questions that are deeper than product talking to customers that 85% of consumers who come I like to get advice on what product to buy etc.come Fifty-one percent talking to customers that 85% of consumers who So it becomes a necessity for retailers to offer a robust etc. Fifty This and what specifications and be knowledgeable enough to have anhas led to a new reality for retailers in to buy andthey do not get the right sales person with the a know 53% of TimeTrade survey in to buydelivers and do not get the right sales person indicate with the that ifindicate cross-channel experience that against customer I don’t like waiting for items to ship lers must keep in need to offer in the store. Previously, it was the idea that in-depth dialog with these already educated consumers. right knowledge and expertise will go elsewhere. This they are extremely like right knowledge and expertise will go elsewhere. This expectations. Every touch point must enrich the shopper’s has shifted from respondents report that after they are Other people would come into the store and is shop retailers How store employees handle in-store behavior is more whyand providing the right in-store service is so crucial. experience, and every interaction must viewed is why providing thebe right in-storeas service is so crucial. n.” By the time a would display as many items as possible. Today the they have browsed online crucial than ever as consumers willbefore take their business Not only does the in-s today need a service guarantee that they will Not only pivotal in theCustomers customer’s purchasing decision. Customers today need a service guarantee that they will ll versed on what knowledge to help these educated consumers with

physical store not only has to have physical goods, help but from a knowledgeable employee who Prompt and knowledgeable service will lead may get additional exp have prompt 12elsewhere. making a purchase, they have may get have prompt help from a knowledgeable employee who a final decision but staff. Store as it enables cross-se to customer satisfaction as well as store and brandnow there is a shift in focus on the in-store can provide them with product expertise. The reason is as it ena can provide them with product expertise. The reason is e purchase. This is narrowed their selection down and store associates must have thecustomer right TimeTrade survey reve loyalty. It is a matter of retailers providing this level managers of that the is coming in to buy and they are TimeTra that the customer is coming in to buy and they are ut experts that can to 2 orservice. 3 products but need help knowledge to help these educated consumers with they originally planned looking for final validation, for example, maybe they are they orig looking for final validation, for example, maybe they are avior is really about WHEN YOU BROWSE ONLINE BEFORE must be able totheir purchase choice to three cameras associate assisting th down Figure 4. When decision you browse online before makingtheir a final buying decisions. Associatesnarrowing making a final associat narrowing down their purchase choice to three cameras shopping. For this MAKING A PURCHASE, HOW MUCH DO YOU answer questions that are deeper than product purchase, how much do you know about what you t service from the KNOW ABOUT WHAT YOU WANT TO BUY WHEN BY A KNOWLEDGEABLE specifications and be knowledgeable enough to HELPED have an want to buy before you go to the store? st part, know Once customers are in the YOU store, GO retailers in Figure 5. When helped by a knowledgable associate, Figure 6. If you genu BEFORE TO must THE keep STORE? ASSOCIATE, HOW LIKELY ARE YOU TO BUY? associate, Figure 5. When helped by a knowledgable Figure in-depth dialog with these already educated consumers. with the last steps mind that customer in-store behavior has shifted from how likely are you to buy? you, are you likely to how likely are you to buy? you, are How store employees handle in-store behavior is more “discovery” to “final purchase decision.” By the time a to purchase? to purch crucial than ever as consumers will take their business 3% person walks into a store they are well versed on what elsewhere. Prompt and knowledgeable service will lead they want to buy, they have not made a final decision but to customer satisfaction as well as store and brand 10% 7% 10% t I want to buy they need emotional validation for the purchase. This is loyalty. It is a matter of retailers providing this level of why they go into the store and seek out experts that can wn to 2-3 products and service. final decision help them. So this modern store behavior is really about Figure 4. When you browse online before making a 38% buying much more so than it is about shopping. For this trying to fulfill, but I purchase, how much do you know about what you reason, customers today need prompt service from the 51% buy to meet that need 51% want to buy before you go to the store? right person because they, for the most part, know

39%

w what I’m looking for what they want, they just53% need help with the last steps ore

in buying.

3% 7%

I know exactly what I want to buy I’ve narrowed it down to 2-3 products and need help making a final decision

I know the need I’m trying to fulfill, but I don’t know what to buy to meet that need I usually don’t know what I’m looking for when I go to the store

Extremely likely Extremely likely Somewhat likely Somewhat likely It wouldn’t make a difference It wouldn’t make a difference 38%

53%

064 14

14 13

39%

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WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR RETAILERS There is no doubt that all generations of consumers are more educated and more selective than ever. Consumers are using digital channels for research, but still looking to the in-store experience to help with final purchasing decisions. More than ever, retailers need to have a seamless flow between channels and, once the customer is in the store, provide a superior in-store experience. In order to standout, retailers must make sure they are providing customers with the right knowledge while keeping in mind that the majority of TimeTrade survey respondents prefer shopping in stores so they can touch and feel things. Retailers can enhance the in-store experience through prompt service and enable a smart hands-on experience that helps customers with their final purchasing decisions.

tore Service

s own research and

sumers who come

es person with the

o elsewhere. This vice is so crucial.

rantee that they will

able employee who

Adam Silverman, a Principal Analyst at Forrester, who covers in-store commerce technologies, comments: “Forrester believes that, in the future, retail stores that drive convenience, service, and relevant personalized experiences through the use of digital store technology will succeed. Why? Because today, customers show an affinity for digital store technology. In fact, 66% of luxury apparel customers are more likely to shop with a digitally-enabled associate. Those retailers who wait on the sidelines are at risk of maintaining the status quo and may only and wantmarginally. to learn more about each camera’s reputation, grow etc. Fifty-one percent of TimeTrade survey respondents

indicate that ifin-store a knowledgeable associate helps them, Although experiential technologies

exist today, most implementations will fail to lack meaningful use cases and do not create convenience for customers. Look for retailers in 2015 to focus on digital store technologies that help Not only does the in-store visit benefit the customer who customers and associates complete tasks faster and with greater insight.” they are extremely likely to buybecause (Figure 5).they provide a positive ROI

may get additional expertise, but it benefits the retailer

tise. The reason is

as it enables cross-sell and up-sell opportunity. The

y and they are

TimeTrade survey reveals that 60% will buy more than

le, maybe they are

they originally planned to if they genuinely like the sales

ce to three cameras

edgable associate,

39%

associate assisting them. (Figure 6).

IF YOU GENUINELY LIKE THE ASSOCIATE HELPING YOU, ARE YOU LIKELY TO BUY Figure 6. If THAN you genuinely like the associate helping MORE YOU PLANNED TO PURCHASE? you, are you likely to buy more than you planned

Power of In-Store Service (cont.)

WHEN BEING HELPED BY AN ASSOCIATE, I EXPECT THEM TO KNOW?

Figure 7. When being helped by an associate, I expect them to know:

to purchase?

65%

Which product is the best value

40% say “no”

60% say “yes”

Which product has the highest quality Which product is the most popular

64% 34% 56%

Which product is the most reliable The best product for my specific needs and budget

47%

Connecting customers with sales associates that have

Survey respondents also expect sales a

exactly the right knowledge and expertise to help them

provide valuable insights and recommend

is just the beginning, the store then has to provide great

on product value and quality, more than p

in-store service and then follow up with the customer

reliability. Nearly two-thirds of respondent

if needed.

sales associates can recommend which

According to the TimeTrade survey, consumers leave more satisfied after being helped by a knowledgeable associate and 91% are more likely to shop at that store in the future. Respondents also report that if a product is the exact same price at four different retailers, more than 63% of consumers will decide where to buy based on the overall

the best value and which has the highest 64%, respectively) (Figure 7). And, more

respondents (56%) expect them to know w is most reliable.

065

Contrary to popular belief, the large majority

expect to get the same experience whet

shopping at a high end or typical departmen

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Natasha Baker of Forbes recently wrote an article “5 Tech Trends That Will Hit Every Retail Store By following is a summary of the technologies and trends that Baker lists: What This Means for Retailers (cont.) RETAIL TECH TRENDS BY 2020 Beacons

Analytics

Brick-and-mortar will use analyt Sensors placed around thatrecently communicate Natasha Baker of Forbes wrote an article Tech“5Trends That Will Hitstores Every Retail Store By Natasha Baker stores ofrecently Forbes wrote an “5 article Tech Trends where people walk and what they picku Will Hit Every Retail Store 2020.” The following is a summary information smartphones—will track By information following isThat atosummary of the technologies and trends that Baker lists: of the technologies and trends that Baker lists: better position products in the store or such as which products customers linger around.

at the device level to target promotions The beacons can then push information on those Beacons data will be used to understand custom products to customers’ mobile devices, allowing Sensors placed around stores that communicate information to Beacons Analytics increase sales. them to order from their devices and have such as which products smartphones — will track information customers

linger around.to The beacons can then push information on those merchandise shipped their homes. stores will use analyt Sensors placed around stores that communicate products to customers’ mobile devices, allowing them to Brick-and-mortar order from Demographics (cont.) their devices and have merchandise shipped to their homes. where people walk and what they picku information to smartphones—will track information

ics

such as which customers Moreproducts Intelligent Devices linger around.

6.2 Baby Boomers Stores will use push devices that can determine the The beacons can then information on those More Intelligent Devices Baby Boomers are described as those who are

better position products in the store or

demographic at the deviceTechnology level to target as apromotions Sales As information of customers as they walk by, and target ads to them born between 1944 and 1964. Baby Boomers are data will be used to understand custom products to customers’ through a videomobile console,devices, similar toallowing smart shelves being developed causing retailers to re-think 980 and 2000, Millennials Millenials are alsothe largest demographic in the U.S. and they have the increase sales. by Mondelez International. will use devices that can determine Technology will increasingly automate and storeto locations as ulation by 2020 according their distribution strategy Stores them order from their devices and have the

nnials account for more

r spending according to

them, Millennials make retail and technology

h. When it comes to retail surprise that Millennials

h brands through digital

rketing tactics such as

omotions. Retailers also

uality products at a good

marketing component of

nials are forcing brand

e much more digital and over channels such as

he following statistics

lds plan to shop in stores

ey did in 2014

knowledge from sales the best value, 69% want and 62% want to know

g $100K or more, 100% not more, in stores this

most money to spend. Baby Boomers outspend other 67% of TimeTrade survey this demographicgenerations is drawn to non-mall, mixed-use by an estimated $400 billion each year on demographic information of customers as they walk and mundane processes merchandise shipped to their homes. neighborhood lifestyle shopping areas which are being (U.S. Government respondents between the ages of consumer goods and services

by,Expenditure andpreferences. target ads to them through developed according to consumer Consumer Survey)5. And, in a recent report

a 55 video console, Whether is more self-service check-o and 64, report that if an ititem

similar to smart being mapping to or make it easier for custome , Baby Boomers are shelves spending more thandeveloped they theyby by Gallup want is available online Millennials like individual attention and increasingly want were a year ago. Mondelēz around stores, specific, exclusive “just-for-me” products.International. For example, in a nearby store, they prefer to or beacon and NFC tech This spending power isMore impressive and shouldDevices not be Technology as a Sales As the TimeTrade survey reveals that 25-34 year olds Intelligent are self-education on products, technology ignored, but retailers must keep in mind how shop in the store. likely (59%) to book online appointments (Figure 11). Boomers spend their money and how they are role in automating the retail experience This reveals that, despite their time spent on digital Stores will use devices that can determine theIn general, Technology will influenced. Baby Boomers grew up in an era where media IN GENERAL, IF THE ITEM YOU IS increasingly automate Figure 12: if the item you wantWANT is channels, when given the self-service opportunity, AVAILABLE ONLINE AND IN A NEARBY STORE, was different than their younger counterparts, therefore available online and in a nearby store, do you prefer demographic information of customers as they walk and mundane processes that happen i Millennials will convert a digital touch point into a DO YOU SHOPPING IN A STORE, different types advertising influence them in shopping IF YOU in-person COULD BOOK AN of APPOINTMENT in aPREFER store, online or on your phone? high-value, meeting. Store Associates Can Focus On Customers by, andFor target ads to them through Whether it is more self-service check-o 7 ONLINE OR ON YOUR PHONE? reports a video console, different ways. example, eMarketer.com WITH A SALES ASSOCIATE BEFORE GOING 6

that while Internet users age 50–69 to compare TO11: THE STORE, WOULD YOU USE IT ago online (Respondents Age 55-64) Figure If you could book an appointment with similar to smart shelves being developed by [ RESPONDENTS FOR YOUR NEXT VISIT? prices, what sways their you purchasing decisions are sales associate before going toreally the store, would use

mapping to make it easier for custome AGE 55-64 ] Retailers will be able to take advantage of managed Mondelēz International. around stores, or beacon and NFC tech commercials on television. it for your next visit? 2% on my phone infrastructure at the edge. This is a vitally important self-education on products, technology Pre-purchase research online is now common among boomers. As a recent survey having by Prosper & enabler because to Insights add relatively expensive role in automating the retail experience nearly Analytics8 found that41% sayhalf “no”of US boomer internet IT staff can make deploying new technologies users researched online before buying electronics. More

31% online

than one-fifth they did this beforecost purchasing apparel retailsaid environments prohibitive.

Of course, sales Store Associates Can Focus On Customers associates will not disappear. Rather, with many of their

59% or appliances.

Boomers’ online research is distinct compared to other

routine tasks automated, they will be able to focus more

generations though. A recent survey by Market Strategies

Retailers will be able to take advantage of managed say “yes” , indicates relationships that Baby Boomers are customers more International on building with while increasing 9

infrastructure at“consumer the edge. This is likely than Millennials to use websites anda vitally important sales and affinity for their employers. publications” and much more having likely to cite theserelatively as enabler because to add expensive “primary” sources.

IT staff can make deploying new technologies in

For the majority of Baby Boomers, purchasing happens in retail environments cost prohibitive.

Of course, sales

67% in theApril store3, 2015 the store. ”5 Tech Trends That Will Hit Every Retail Store by 2020,” Natasha Baker, Forbes.com, 17

associates will not disappear. Rather, with many of their 32 routine tasks automated, they will be able to focus more

on building relationships with customers while increasing

5 Consumer Expenditure Survey, U.S. Labor of Statistics, 2014 6 ”Baby Boomers Are Opening Their Wallets,” John H. Fleming, Gallup.com Bureau, June 2014 7 “For Digital 15, Shopping, Over Mobile,” August, 14th, 2013, eMarketer.com e Changing the Face of Marketing Forever, BCG Consulting Group, January 2014 Baby Boomers Favor Desktop19 8 Consumer Snapshot, Prosper Insight & Analytics, consumersnapshot.com, April 2015

sales and affinity for their employers.

066

that happen i

“How Old-Fashioned Are Baby Boomer Shoppers?” www.marketstrategies.com, July 18, 2014

20 17

”5 Tech Trends That Will Hit Every Retail Store by 2020,” Natasha Baker, Forbes.com, April 3, 2015

by, and target ads to them through a video console, 17 s recently wrote an article “5 Tech Trends That Will Hitshelves Every Retail By 2020.” The similar to smart being Store developed by of the technologies and trends that Baker lists:International. Mondelēz

Whether it is more self-service check-ou

mapping to make it easier for customer

W D M NFC tech around stores, or beacon and

self-education on products, technology

role in automating the retail experience

etailers (cont.)

Analytics Store Associates Can Focus On Customers Retailers will be able toCan takeFocus advantage of managed infrastructure at Store Associates On Customers the edge.stores This is will a vitally important enabler because having to add Brick-and-mortar use analytics to map stores that communicate relatively expensive IT staff can make deploying new technologies in 17 whereThat people and what they pickup so they can s recently wrote article “5 Tech Trends Willwalk Hit Every Retail Store By 2020.” The ones—will track an information retail environments cost prohibitive. Of course, sales associates will not Retailers will be able to take advantage of managed disappear. Rather,inwith many ofor their routine tasks automated, they will better position products the store track shoppers of the technologies and trends that Baker lists: s customers linger around. infrastructure at to the edge. This a vitally importantwith customers while be able focus more on is building relationships at the device level to target promotions toemployers. them. This push information on those increasing sales and affinity for their enabler because having to add relatively expensive data will be used to understand customers and mobile devices, allowing IT staff can make deploying new technologies in Analytics increase sales. r devices and have Brick-and-mortar will useOf analytics tosales map where people walk retail environments cost stores prohibitive. course, Analytics and what they pickup so they can better position products in the store o their homes. associates will not disappear. Rather, with many of their or track shoppers at the device level to target promotions to them. Brick-and-mortar stores will use analytics to stores that communicate This data will be used towill understand and increase sales. routine tasks automated, they be able customers to map focus more where people walk and what they pickup so they can ones—will track information on building relationships with customers while increasing Technology as a Sales Assistant better position products inemployers. the store or tracka shoppers s customers linger around. sales and affinity forwill their Technology increasingly gent Devices Technology as a Salesautomate Assistantlot of routine and mundane processes that happen in retail stores. Whether itService is more self-service at the device level to target promotions to them. This Power of In-Store (cont.) push information on those check-outs, in-store mapping to make it easier for customers data will be used to understand customers and mobile allowing to self-navigate around stores, or a beacon NFC technology that candevices, determine the Technology will increasingly automate lot of and routine Either way, consumers are much more concerned with the more concerned with the Responses from the TimeTrade 17 survey reveal that: increase sales. for greater self-education on products, technology will play aApril greater ”5 Tech Trends That Will Hit Every Retail Store by 2020,” Natasha Baker, Forbes.com, 3, 2015 r devices and have on customers and mundane happen invalue retail stores. of the in-store experience, seek superior customer seekof superior customeras they walk role inprocesses automatingthat the retail experience. • What 50% of consumers value most in a sales service and equate this with overall customer satisfaction. ol customer their homes. satisfaction. em through a video console, Whether it is more self-service check-outs, in-store associate while shopping 32is smart recommendations Sixty-four percent of survey respondents indicate that if ondents indicate that if If an item is the exact same price at four different • sdgeable beingsales developed mapping to make it easier for customers self-navigate theytoreceive help from a knowledgeable sales associate associate by retailers, 64% of consumers will decide where to shop that recommends items that they need or want based on need or want based on around stores,they orhave beacon and NFC technology for greater based on the overall customer experience what the associate knows about them, they will leave t them, they will leave in the store self-education on products, willstore play a greater the much more satisfied (Figure 8). This proves Figure Devices 8). This proves gent Technology as atechnology Sales Assistant • If an item is the exact same price at four different that personalization is highly valued by today’s y valued by today’s role in automating the retail experience. retailers, 64% of consumers will decide where to shop

customer.

that can determine the Technology automate a lot of routine based on the overall customer experiencewill theyincreasingly have in the walk store (Figure 9) they

on of customers iates Can Focusas On Customers em through a video console,

Responses from the Time

• What 50% of consumer

associate while shoppin • If an item is the exact s retailers, 64% of consum

based on the overall cu in the store

• If an item is the exact s

retailers, 64% of consum

based on the overall cu in the store (Figure 9)

and mundane processes that happen in retail stores.

IF A KNOWLEDGEABLE SALES ASSOCIATE

Whether it is more self-service check-outs, in-store ITEMS YOU MAY NEED OR RECOMMENDS

WANT BASED ON WHAT THEY KNOW ABOUT Figure 9. If an item is th IF AN ITEM IS is THE EXACT SAME PRICE sles being developed mapping to make it easier for customers to self-navigate Figure 8. If a knowledgeable sales associate take advantage ofby managed Figure 9. If an item the exact same price as four associate YOU, WHAT KIND OF IMPACT WOULD THAT AS FOUR DIFFERENT RETAILERS, HOW recommends you may need or want based on HAVEdifferent retailers, how w retailers, how will you decide where or to shop? d or want based on around stores, beacon and NFC technology foritems greater ge. This is a vitally different important kind of impact would

SHOPPING whatON theyYOUR know about you, whatEXPERIENCE? kind of impact would

WILL YOU DECIDE WHERE TO SHOP?

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64%

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ery Retail Store by 2020,” Natasha Baker, Forbes.com, April 3, 2015

t prohibitive. Of course, sales

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067

ery Retail Store by 2020,” Natasha Baker, Forbes.com, April 3, 2015 17

mobile device. However, mobile devices are being used to compare prices (61%), research products (50%) and look for the nearest store location (46%) (Figure 10).

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to actually make purchases than consumers 35 and older. Nearly 62% are using mobile devices to research products before buying. And, nearly 70% use their mobile devices to compare prices.

WHEN I’M LOOKING TO BUY SOMETHING, I USE MY MOBILE DEVICE MOST OFTEN TO... Figure 10. When I’m looking to buy something, I use my mobile device most often to...

Research different products

Compare prices

50%

61%

Find the nearest store location

Make my purchase

46%

13%

OVERALL FINDINGS Baker adds: “E-commerce has certainly revolutionized the way we shop, but brick-and-mortar stores are far from dead. Increasingly, online retailers have begun opening physical stores for the first time, which signals that there may be a return to real world shopping — only this time, reinvented for the digital age.” In order for retailers to survive and retain market share, they must be progressive in how they create the in-store experience, using modern-day technology while providing prompt service, all the while knowing a customer’s Demographics (cont.) needs before they even enter the store. Though this seems like a tall order, leading retailers are doing all of the above and are aware of consumers ever changing needs.

Figure 13. When being helped by an associate, I expect them to know (please check all that apply):

WHEN BEING HELPED BY AN ASSOCIATE, I EXPECT THEM TO KNOW ( PLEASE CHECK ALL THAT APPLY ): (Respondents Age 55-64) [ RESPONDENTS AGE 55-64 ] 56%

Which product is the best value Which product has the highest quality Which product is the most popular Which product is the most reliable The best product for my specific needs and budget

57% 25% 59% 64%

Copyright © 2015 by TimeTrade Systems, Inc. State of Retail 2015 is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ the same time, of TimeTrade respondents However, one statistic that stands out is that 64% of To view the full copy of theirAtreport, please visit89% http://www.timetrade.com/gated_content/form?destination=node/3976 between the ages of 55 and 64 indicate they like to shop survey respondents ages 55-64 want store associates

068

in the store because they like to ‘touch and feel’ products

to know the best product for their specific needs and

before they decide what they want to buy. This is 4%

budget (Figure 13). This is 17% more than global

higher than the survey’s global result.

respondents, indicates that while Baby Boomers have

And, 60% of this survey segment values smart

a lot of disposable income, they are still budget-minded and, at the same time, want stores to know their needs.

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Plug charger that comes with device in through pre-cuthole in acrylic

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

See it in action at: http://palmerretailsolutions.com/security.html Run cord down through fixture to power source

Cellmate Device Security Simple and Strong • 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-

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

• No Special Cords or Connectors The CELLMATE family of holders (CELLMATE, TabletVAULT, and PhabletVAULT) allow you to use your own OEM power cord. No special cables, connectors or alarm modules to buy.

800.444.1912

sales@palmerpromos.com

Everything Wireless!

INCREASE YOUR PROFIT MARGINS We Oﬀer Remanufactured Brand Names For Less We specialize in the brands your customers want. Remanufacture your defective & trade-in phones/tablets to like-new condition and get 30%-50% higher resale. That’s the diﬀerence between C-Grade and A-Grade products. We turn USED GOODS “Used, abused products with limited use and low resale value”. Into LIKE NEW PRODUCTS “Beautiful, sellable items that can bring your business added revenue”.

WE WILL BUY YOUR USED EQUIPMENT, WORKING OR NOT!

Reduce Scrap—Increase Revenue We offer complete, cost-effective remanufacturing services! 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 return.

CONVENIENT HUB LOCATIONS IN EL PASO TEXAS, CALEXICO CALIFORNIA & SAN BERNARDINO CALIFORNIA

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 CTIA BOOTH #368

Technology Solutions & Services, Inc. a reverse logistics company

WE WANT TO BUY YOUR EXCESS DEAD OR ALIVE! TSSI is always looking for product! We can refurbish it for you or buy it from you! TSSI is a full service reverse logistics company. In addition to being a true service partner, we oﬀer a wide variety of asset recovery solutions speciﬁc to Mobile, IT and consumer electronics industries. We provide lean, low-cost solutions that allow you to focus 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 constant, 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

• Customized Reporting • Systematically Controlled Process Flows • Focused Reuse Initiatives • Environmentally Sound Recycling • Complete Data Transparency

WE REPAIR SCRATCHED GLASS & BROKEN SCREENS

WE ARE LOCAL—NOT OVERSEAS We oﬀer the same competitive advantages within close proximity of your core markets here at home. TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS & SERVICES, INC. Los Angeles, CA - Mexicali, Mexico - Juarez, Mexico - Calexico, CA - El Paso, TX

Call us toll free: 866-447-6872 or visit our website: www.tssius.com ISO 9001:2008 / ISO 14001:2004 / C-TPAT / MS-TPI

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Available Colors Light Blue, Yellow, White, Purple, Silver, Blue, Red, Pink, Green, Gold, Black with more to follow.

MSRP Cable Keeper M $9.99 Cable Keeper M w/ Micro USB $14.99 Cable Keeper M w/ Apple MFI $24.99

Cable Keeper M

POP Displays

Cable Keeper M w/ Micro USB

Cable Keeper M w/ Apple Lightning

Reviewed & Featured on: “a convenient and practical product.”

“destroy wiry mayhem on your desk.”

“this little item offers a handy, NEET solution.”

“elegant and simple solution to a never-ending problem”

www.geardiary.com

www.blogcritics.org

www.appledailyreport.com

www.soundandvision.com

- Gear Diary

- Blog Critics

- Apple Daily Reprot

- Sound & Vision Magazine

Available now on:

NEET Products Tel (909) 350-0010 www.neetproducts.com world wide patent pending

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RESOURCE DIRECTORY

Abmnus abmnuswholesale.com | 877.275.7778 Accessory Export accessoryexportwholesale.com 951.687.1140

Consumer Electronics Assoc. / CES 2016 ce.org/Training/wiredintowireless 866.858.1555 Cowboy Banners cowboybanners.com | 713.900.9012

Accessory Lab accessorylab.co.uk | +44 844.409.8775

CTB Wireless ctbwireless.com | 626.345.9705

AIMO aimowireless.com | 877.687.6688

CTIA ctiasupermobility2015.com | 202.469.9406

AMGOO amgoo.com | 786.483.8630

CVE Technology nukousa.com | 973.835.7074 ext. 206

AmTrust Mobile Solutions/ Warrentech Corporation warrantech.com | 817.785.6106 Amzer amzer.com | 866.663.2693 anb Components anbcomponents.com | 800.859.7816

Digital Treasures digitaltreasures.com | 248.969.7800 Dog and Bone dogandbonecases.com | 800.233.0013

iShieldz ishieldz.com | 866.323.9330 Item Electronics itemelectronics.com | +852.6956.2825

KCI Wireless kciwireless.com | 713.524.2727 KIKA ENTERPRISES kikaenterprises.com | 800.338.1160

LCDcycle LCDcycle.com | 256.881.7255 Lunex Telecom lunextelecom.com | 888.333.2404 Lux Wireless luxwireless.com | 855.589.9473

Anchor Graphics AnchorGraphics.com | 800.875.7859 eTech Parts etechparts.com | 913.839.1718 B2B Soft b2bsoft.com | 212.742.2301 Bandshell / TJM Innovations bandshellcase.com | 866.766.3442

ETrade Supply etradesuppy.com | 972.850.3910 EXPO Mobile ExpoMobile.COM | 800.818.1597

Maya Cellular Parts mayacellularparts.com | 424.248.3896 MegaTel Wireless MEGATELWIRELESS.COM | 877.350.5999

Beyond Cell beyondcell.com | 877.580.9880 B-Stock Solutions sourcing.bstocksolutions.com | 866.993.6757

Hashtag Cube hashtagcube.com/wholesale | 650.567.9995

BodyGuardz bodyguardz.com/thecrown | 801.495.3514

H2O Wireless H2OWirlessNow.com | 800.643.4926 Hookup Cellular hookupwholesale.com | 855.427.6534

CaseCo caseco.ca | 800.961.4767 CellularRepairTools.com cellrepairtools.com | 702.891.0377

ICE Mobility / Celluphone icemobility.com | 800.276.8700

CF Repair Center CFRepairCenter.com | 310.453.3606

iDroid idroidcorp.com | 215.589.7118

Collateral Now collateralnow.com | 877.370.8737

iFixit ifixit.com | 805.540.6320

Conplex America conplexamerica.com | 516.942.2300

Incomm incomm.com | 305.381.7729

078

Masterfone master-fone.com | +852.3590.6675

Mengtor Mobile Device Training MengtorMDTraining.com | 702.338.1588 Mengtor Inc. mengtor.com | 888.683.7306 Mobile Defenders mobiledefenders.com | 616.551.2286 Mobile-net mobile-net.us | 888.979.3155 Mobilio mobilio.me MYBAT / Valor Communication mybat.com | 877.369.2088

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

NEET Products neetproducts.com | 909.350.0010

Red Pocket Mobile RedPocket.com/dealers | 888.958.5946

Ultra Mobile ultra.me | 888.777.0446

NE Partz nepartz.com | 603.858.4436

Reiko reikowireless.com | 718.418.0077

Unnecto unnecto.com | 212.683.1817

NUU Mobile us.nuumobile.com | 507.529.0041

RepairQ repairQ.io | 877.230.6317

US Connections usconnections.net | 310.358.1920

Repair Solution Co., Ltd. repairsolution.com | 562.421.3931

US Drone Repair usdronerepair.com

OEM Source oemsourceinc.com | 718.965.6230 Ontrion ontrion.com | 972.497.9933

RepairTRAX repairtrax.com | 303.933.7300 ReVamp Electronics ReVampElectronics.com | 312.450.7265

Plum Mobile plum-mobile.com | 305.640.1803 PTEL ptel.com/r | 877.551.1122

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VoiceComm myvoicecomm.com | 800.803.1321

Walls+Forms wallsforms.com | 972.745.0800 We Sell Cellular, Inc. wesellcellular.com | 516.334.6400 Wholesale Gadget Parts, Inc. wholesalegadgetparts.com | 918.895.9105 WHOOSH! whoosh.com | 866.631.1116 Wireless Need wirelessneed.com | 678.644.2786 Wireless Repair EXPO WirelessRepairEXPO.com | 561.713.4394 Wireless Xcessories Group wirexgroup.com | 215.322.4600 Worth Ave Group worthavegroup.com | 614.454.3818

Teleforce USA teleforceusa.com | 972.243.6313 TFX Tech Inc. phonepartswholesale.com | 213.316.6888

QJO Mobile QJO.net | 212.213.1902 Qpay qpaynet.com | 305.895.1115 QUE queproducts.com | 855. QUE.4999

The Ear Phone Connection bluewicomm.com | 888.372.1888 TSSI INC. USA tssius.com | 866.447.6872 TX Parts txparts.com | 281.565.0112 Trident tridentcase.com | 215.322.4600

079

In partnership with

Las Vegas | Sands Expo | Sept 9-11

PRODUCED BY

PREMIER PARTNER