Re: Oz to USA Price Parity...
I disagree.
There were points regarding set up of productions lines to suit 110v vs 240v and the numbers produced at each.
The cost of establishing distribution and warranty/support networks where there is a lower volume of sales (i.e. cost per unit could be much higher to establish).
Advertising costs.
Dont get me wrong, it annoys me too - especially when we are talking EXACTLY the same product. I.e. no factors of modified production line due to different specs for different markets etc to push the price per unit up. And there are certainly aspects of both at play (economies of scale, AND "because they can"). The fact is, were a fraction the size of the USA or Europe. Somehow I dont think a big global brand would lose too much sleep over losing the Aussie market.
In fact, even Breville (an Aussie company) has launched the best product in their history (coffee related, anyway) and stated the fact that the Australian market isnt their #1 priority. Theyre chasing the US and Europe. Good for them, but proves how highly valued, or otherwise, the Aussie market is...
For me, the biggest shame is that it will continue to drive consumers towards purchasing online for items that are practical to do so. It will get to the point that we notice a significant impact on our local retail industry... then well lament the lack of small businesses and competition in the retail industry, which in the end, could result in higher prices again. All to save a few bucks on some clothes, designer perfume and a few blurays!
Originally posted by 585E4942585F47452C0 link=1305923402/29#29 date=1306123584
There were points regarding set up of productions lines to suit 110v vs 240v and the numbers produced at each.
The cost of establishing distribution and warranty/support networks where there is a lower volume of sales (i.e. cost per unit could be much higher to establish).
Advertising costs.
Dont get me wrong, it annoys me too - especially when we are talking EXACTLY the same product. I.e. no factors of modified production line due to different specs for different markets etc to push the price per unit up. And there are certainly aspects of both at play (economies of scale, AND "because they can"). The fact is, were a fraction the size of the USA or Europe. Somehow I dont think a big global brand would lose too much sleep over losing the Aussie market.
In fact, even Breville (an Aussie company) has launched the best product in their history (coffee related, anyway) and stated the fact that the Australian market isnt their #1 priority. Theyre chasing the US and Europe. Good for them, but proves how highly valued, or otherwise, the Aussie market is...
For me, the biggest shame is that it will continue to drive consumers towards purchasing online for items that are practical to do so. It will get to the point that we notice a significant impact on our local retail industry... then well lament the lack of small businesses and competition in the retail industry, which in the end, could result in higher prices again. All to save a few bucks on some clothes, designer perfume and a few blurays!



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