|
Best Buy removes part of rebate hassle |
|
|
|
|
Wednesday, 08 February 2006 |
Best Buy is replacing the mail-in rebate process with an easier on-line process, but only for rebates offered by Best Buy itself, not for all those rebates offered by the various manufacturers. And, this only applies to computers and computer accessories -- although that is a large chunk of the rebate market.
Noting that consumers unanimously detest the hassle of filling out all those mail-in forms, cutting apart thick carboard boxes to remove UPC codes, and keeping track of multiple bits of paperwork, Best Buy decided to eliminate their own brand of mail-in rebate forms -- and replace them with on-line rebate forms.
Best Buy cannot force companies like Dell and HP/Compaq to instantly change their mail-in rebate procedures, and they won't. So, the vast majority of rebates consumers find in Best Buy -- the ones offered by manufacturers -- will remain ungodly hassles for the foreseeable future.
The people at Best Buy say they're going to try to work with these other companies to convince them to get on-board with this customer-friendly approach, which includes on-line forms and payments that actually reach customers with a week or two instead of a year or never.
However, manufacturers would be giving up large amounts of revenue if they bought into the Best Buy strategy, because the current, old-fashioned rebate philosophy makes money for the manufacturer specifically by making the process as difficult and confusing as possible for the consumer. Suddenly making it easy and quick, and actually trying to pay the consumer would go against the whole idea of today's rebate programs at most large corporations.
So, while Best Buy has made a very helpful step for consumers, and will likely earn new, loyal customers as a result, there are still challenges ahead for everyone involved.
Best Buy eliminates mail-in rebates on laptops (PC Magazine)
|
|
Last Updated ( Wednesday, 08 February 2006 )
|
|
|
Who's Online
We have 16 guests online
|
