It is important to fully understand your options when shopping for outdoor awnings in NZ for home and commercial purposes. This will allow you to find the best awning for you and ensure that there are awning services, warranty, and repair availability.
THREE AVENUES ARE AVAILABLE IF YOU BUY AWNINGS
WHOLESALE TO RETAILER
If you purchase wholesale sun control products from a retailer, installation is not included or warranted by either the manufacturer or the retailer. Although the manufacturer may offer a limited warranty for certain products, retailers often rely on overseas suppliers or external wholesalers for materials. Although the initial cost might seem low, additional charges for repairs or replacement parts may exist. Also, availability may not be guaranteed.
MANUFACTURER TO INSTALLER
This tier provides standard reliability and quality. However, it has limited or no customization of awnings and is still indirect. It requires an intermediary to complete the job.
MANUFACTURER DIRECT TO CONSUMER
Accent Awnings offers awnings that are made-to-order in California using the highest quality materials and installed by the same team as the manufacturer. You also get a comprehensive warranty that covers both manufacturing and installation, as well as ongoing support from a trusted company.
We now have a better understanding of the various options for purchasing awnings. Let’s look closer at the many benefits of buying direct from the manufacturer.
SHOPPERS CAN ACT DIRECTLY WITH BRANDS
Consider the difference between reading a book or meeting the author. You’re more likely to purchase the product if you have a personal connection.
Buying DIRECT REDUCES ANXIETY AT THE CONSENT OF A KNOCK-OFF DISSTRIBUTOR
One major footwear manufacturer stopped selling on Amazon because it was impossible to prevent other companies selling knock-offs at low prices and thereby reducing the brand’s reputation.
Shoppers can shop directly at the manufacturer’s site or store to ensure that they are purchasing authentic, high-quality products.
BRANDS CAN RETAIL EVERY PRODUCT. RETAILERS TYPICALLY DO NOT
Customers who are already familiar with the brand will find this especially useful. You will want to know what other products are available if you trust the product. The brand’s website is the best place to find out more about its entire product line.
BRANDS ARE ABLE TO SELECT ANY COLOR, SIZE OR STYLE
Manufacturers have the most in-demand sizes and colours. You can shop the entire range and make your own customizations by purchasing directly from the manufacturer. This is particularly important for those who want to avoid standardization.
DIRECT TO-CONSUMER SHOPPERS GET DIRECT ACCESS to THE MOST ACCURATE INFORMATION & BRAND SUPPORT
You can shop on the manufacturer’s site or in their storefront. This gives you direct access to those who know the brand inside and out. You can shop on the retailer’s site and get access to their customer service.
People who don’t know much about the brand. More reliable and accurate information can be gleaned from the company website or customer service department.
BRANDS HAVE A HIGHER RISK OF STOCKING WHAT YOU NEED
It can be frustrating to spend time looking for the right product. You have a better chance of finding what you want, and with transparent delivery times.
REPLACEMENT PARTS ARE EASIER – FIND THEM ON THE BRAND WEBSITE
It may be difficult for you to find parts or repair services if the retailer ceases selling the model you have purchased. Parts will be kept by the manufacturer for longer periods than other outlets. They might also be able sell them without an excessive mark-up.
ADD-ON ACCESSORIES EASIER TO REQUEST & INSTALL
You can shop directly with the manufacturer to get accessories that will work exactly as you need them.
DIRECT TO-CONSUMER (DTC), CUSTOMER SERVICE ISSUES ARE VERY Often WAY BETTER HANDLED
If you complain about a purchase from a retailer, they might return your money or take back the product based on their retailer returns policy. If you shop directly with the brand, there will likely be more incentive to resolve the problem as quickly as possible in order to keep you returning.
The GENERAL CONSENSUS FROM CUSTOMER SENSITMENT IS THAT BRANDS are MORE LIKELY to “DO THE RIGHT ThING”
A retailer can pass a customer’s complaint to the manufacturer if they sell a product manufactured by another company. All issues can be resolved in-house if a manufacturer sells you an in-house product. Because there is no room for passing the buck, consumers can feel more comfortable dealing directly with manufacturers.
