What does it cost to be an ICE member?

The first thing ICE does when reviewing a potential member is to make sure that the financial benefits exceed membership cost.  If ICE is an expense to your business, then ICE membership is not offered.

 

So ICE is a buying group?

Kinda, but not really.  Due to a lack of an exact category, the industry has associated ICE with being a buying group.  Most buying groups are designed to buy collectively in order to achieve a lower price.  While ultimately paying less for many products occurs, that is not the main focus of ICE.  ICE is much more of a marketing and selling group.  ICE is focused on new customers and increased sales.  ICE uses the economies of scale power of the group along with vendor support to get this done.

 

Does ICE act as or replace a manufacturer's rep?

No - In fact, ICE works very closely with its vendor partner's representatives.  These reps are in retailers' stores regularly and in turn have the pulse of both the retailers and the local market.  The rep's feedback and assistance is an invaluable ICE tool.

 

Do I buy product from ICE?

No - ICE does not handle any product.  All existing channels of distribution and relationships remain the same.

 

What exactly is an "ICE Preferred Vendor"?

ICE Preferred Vendors are those vendors who believe the independent retailer is a vital part of both the industry and the vendor's success.  These vendors support the marketing and services that ICE conducts on behalf of the member.  The support comes in the form of enhanced marketing and programs designed to offset the cost of ICE membership.  In many cases, these preferred vendors will directly reimburse you for ICE membership.  

 

What if I already get "good deals" from my vendors?

Great! - You will continue to get "good deals" from your vendors.  ICE programs are "on top of" and "in addition to" your already existing vendor programs.  In most cases the additional savings provided to ICE members by ICE vendors comes out of a marketing budget and not the sales budget.

 

What if I do not sell any ICE Preferred brands?

ICE does not control a vendor's distribution and does not require that you do business with an ICE Preferred Vendor.  ICE does ask that if an ICE Preferred Vendor or their reps contact you that you give them the courtesy of a meeting to bring you up to speed on what their company offers.

 

What if I become a member and decide that ICE is not the right fit for my business?

All ICE relationships must be win-win.  If you are not benefiting from being part of the group, you can discontinue your membership at anytime.  In most cases you will be asked to leave if ICE has become an expense for your company.

 

Is it true ICE drives customers to my store through national advertising?

Yes - This is a major component of ICE.  www.incarexperts.com receives thousands of new visitors each month. The key is the type of customer that is delivered to our members.  The site does not attract and in turn does not send DIYers, low price shoppers and internet buyers.  It attracts customers who specifically indicate that quality installation, buying authorized and touching before buying is what is important to them.

 

Can I still get customers from incarexperts.com even if I don't have a website?

Yes.  The customers are directed to you via phone, email, map, direct chat and/or website link.  In fact, if you don't have a website or are not happy with your current one, ICE will provide you a website at no charge.  We even cover the hosting and maintenance costs.

 

What makes ICE different than other mobile electronics groups and associations?

ICE is professional organization with offices, departments and staff.  There are no volunteers and no politics.  ICE employs full-time industry veterans.  Most importantly, ICE is focused on selling more, not just buying more.

 

What is the typical profile of an ICE retailer?

ICE retailers are known in their respective area as the best.  The average ICE retailer has been in business over 20 years and has transitioned from hobbyist to businessman.

 

I am very busy.  How much time does it take to be engaged enough to see benefits from ICE?

Almost zero. One of the great things about ICE is that everything is turn-key.  ICE does the work so you don't have to.  No one understands the hectic life of a mobile electronics retailer better than ICE.