In the past, it would search in phone books or directories to find a supplier. In September 2000, Shipwreck Beads owner Glenn Vincent typed in the keywords bagging and/or packaging on Apple Computers Internet search engine, Sherlock. Vincent found Sharp Packaging Systems Web site (www.sharppackaging.com) and researched its bagging machinery. Sharp (Sussex, WI) includes a photo and video of its machinery, explanations of standard features, specifications and options, and lists the base retail price. I really spent quite a bit of time on the site, Vincent told Net Sourcing. He then contacted Sharp over the telephone for specific information on its products. [After researching online], I was more informed and able to make a purchasing decision a lot faster than if I had to wait for information via the mail or even fax, he says. Shipwreck Beads bought a BPS-2 bagging machine with a thermal-transfer imprinter. The purchase was made offline. I spent $27ꯠ before I even saw the machine, says Vincent. I had to wait 40 days for the equipment because Sharp builds each machine to order. When asked why he decided to purchase offline, Vincent replied, This is new territory. I am much more familiar now, but there are specific questions that come up that I would not know how to ask online. You need someone who is an expert and who is live . . . and I hate to type! Nevertheless, Vincent estimates that researching the equipment purchase via the Web saved about a weeks worth of sourcing time. E.F.
New Bagging Machine Sourced Online
Shipwreck Beads, Olympia, WA, a major supplier of beads and associated products to the jewelry and clothing accessories industries, needed a new bagging machine.
Jan 31st, 2001
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