|
The developments at the CES show in Las Vegas provide food for the industry’s debates for several weeks afterwards (it is a bit like an annual prom ball at which every manufacturer displays its best assets and promises that there’s more to come…). This year, this most hotly discussed issue is likely to be the progress of 3D television, and in particular, the 3D eyewear – the relative merits of active-shutter versus passive glasses, which some commentators have already labelled as a new format war.
However, a development which should appeal to consumers is increasingly ‘smart’ television – as all the big names expand their internet-enabled TV content and facilitate its usage. The choice of services and programmes accessible through the main home set will soon be enormous. The question is, of course, whether customers will have time to take advantage of such choice and whether this service is going to improve their lives – offering them more things to enjoy together with their families or whether this will only escalate the competition for the remote control.
Returning to the IER home front, I would like to remind you that February is the time to prepare and submit your nominations for the Independent Business Awards – both for the manufacturer awards as well as for the Best Independent Retailer category, that over the last two years has brought to the industry’s attention the achievements of the best independent dealers in this country.
Finally, Barry Street who has been writing the Service Matters column for 18 years wishes to hear from you (see page 38). Whether you would like him to explore more of the service bench issues or focus on the challenges of new technology – please let him know.
Anna Ryland, Editor
