eMachines? I thought they were out of business (ggg).
Honestly, do you know anyone who has ever purchased one? I'm sure they make perfectly good machines, but I just took a peek at their site. Prices are good, but not overwhelmingly so, particularly when you consider it isn't top notch stuff.
That said, it is a compelling argument for someone on a tight budget. I just happen to think (primarily due to experience) that people would rather pay 2-300 more for a name they know and trust. I'm not sure eMachines engenders that kind of feeling.
Gateway (oddly) has 3 stores in a 20 mile radius of my house. I can't believe they have that many, and they are still open. That had to be one of the worst ideas they ever had. The cost of opening and maintaining stores is so high, you're better taking the retail approach if you want to get into stores...and build little "branded stores" within the retail outlets (like Apple did).
Still, I was very anti-Gateway due to machine failures suffered by several of my friends. Lately, however, I've heard all these same people talk about how GOOD(?) Gateway's service has been. Nothing but great things to say about their phone support, and willingness to replace broken machines (with ones that actually work).
Don't know if that's going to help them in the long run, but who knows? I happen to think the way to develop loyalty is to have strong service. Doesn't say much for Dell, if that's the case. |
