Manufacturer accounts

Hi,
    I have a fairly new tennis store (6 months old), although I have been in
the sporting goods business for years and own other another specialty
sporting goods store (that is one of the largest of its type in the state).
We have had great difficulty with racquet manufacturers (and a few clothing)
not wanting to open accounts with us because of what they term "too much
competition" on our area. Since there is no other store within 5 miles of us
we are amazed at the way the manufacturers try to control sales. Is this
prevalent among many accounts? Do many accounts buy products from wholesalers
instead of distributors directly. We have felt they are antitrust actions in
nature since everyone knows you can buy racquets from wholesalers at a higher
price? Any comments/suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
TVladimir_at_aol.com.
                                  Tom Vladimir


Received on Tue Apr 25 2000 - 20:31:13 CDT