At Acumen, as a proud brand manufacturer dedicated to designing and producing innovative rearview mirror camera systems and accessories, we are committed to fostering a transparent and efficient partnership with our valued dealers. These guidelines establish a structured framework to align our business objectives, maintain the highest professional standards, and reinforce our dedication to delivering top-quality products and services. By prioritizing transparency, credibility, and effective inventory management, we aim to cultivate a collaborative relationship that benefits both Acumen and our partners. Let’s explore how we can work together to achieve mutual success.
1. Definition of Channel Roles
1.1 Manufacturer
- Manufacturer: Acumen, a company that brings high-quality manufactured goods to market, driving innovation and excellence in vehicle safety technology.
1.2 WD
- Wholesale Distributor (WD): A business that purchases directly from manufacturers like Acumen, storing goods in warehouses, and distributes them to jobbers and retailers at wholesale prices via a 3-Step Distribution process.
1.3 Jobber
- Jobber: An installer or retail shop buying Acumen goods at wholesale prices and selling to consumers at retail prices, following 2-Step (buying direct) or 3-Step (via WD) distribution.
1.4 Retailer & eTailer
- Retailer: Refers to national auto parts chains, distributing Acumen products.
- eTailer: An online-only retailer, such as Amazon, specializing in e-commerce sales of Acumen goods.
2. Definition of Distribution Channel
2.1 3-Step Distribution:
Manufacturer (Acumen) sells to WD, WD to Jobber, Jobber to consumer.
2.2 2-Step Distribution:
Manufacturer (Acumen) sells directly to Jobber, Jobber to consumer (also called Buying Direct).
2.3 1-Step Distribution:
Manufacturer (Acumen) sells directly to consumer (Selling Direct or Buying Direct).
3. Definition of Price
3.1 MSRP (Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price):
The recommended retail price set by Acumen as the manufacturer.
3.2 MAP (Minimum Advertised Price):
The lowest price Acumen products can be advertised.
3.3 Jobber Price:
An industry-standard wholesale price for Acumen goods, typically between MSRP and WD price.
3.4 Bulk Price:
A discounted rate for large-quantity purchases of Acumen products, encouraging bulk buying.
3.5 WD Price:
The price WDs pay Acumen for direct purchases.
4. Dealer Qualification Requirements
4.1 WD Qualification Requirements
- Distributors need over 5 years of automotive accessory distribution experience and must sign a 1-year probationary contract with Acumen.
4.2 Retailer Qualification Requirement
- Chain retailers distributing Acumen products need at least $100 million in annual revenue or 50+ company-owned stores.
4.3 Jobber Qualification Requirements
- Jobbers require at least 3 years of resale experience, an in-house technician, and must:
a. Achieve a minimum 3.8-star rating on Yelp, Google, and BBB.
b. Maintain well-equipped stores for Acumen product management.
5. Dealer Territory Regulations
5.1 WD Dealer Territory Designation
- U.S. distributors of Acumen products can operate nationwide without exclusivity, unlike international distributors who face higher commitment standards.
5.2 Jobber Dealer Territory Designation
- Small Cities: One authorized Jobber for exclusive representation of Acumen products to avoid competition.
- Larger Cities: 2-3 authorized Jobbers to meet higher demand and diverse needs for Acumen goods.
6. Inventory and Shipping Regulations
6.1 Minimum Free Shipping Order Quantity
- California dealers’ orders and returns of Acumen products have shipping covered by Acumen. Out-of-state dealers cover shipping for orders below 3 sets; Acumen covers return shipping to dealers, while dealers handle return-to-sender costs.
6.2 Upgrade or Buy Back
- Wholesalers with unsold Acumen inventory over 18 months can request a buyback to make room for faster-moving stock. Upgrades replace old Acumen models with new ones.
7. Payment Terms
All dealers are required to make payment before shipment of Acumen products.
8. Warranty and Return Policy
8.1 Warranty:
Acumen provides dealers with a 1.5-year warranty on products sold. During this period, dealers should offer customers a minimum 1-year warranty covering both the product and installation. Dealers are required to issue official purchase receipts or invoices to consumers and guide end users to register on the Acumen website for an additional year of extended warranty (totaling a 2-year warranty period from the date of the sales receipt). Acumen supports dealer customers only for product-related issues; installation concerns should be resolved directly between dealers and customers.
8.2 Return:
Products should be returned within 30 days of the RA request, ensuring trust and accurate replacements.
We’re thrilled to partner with you, our dedicated dealers, and these guidelines pave the way for a relationship rooted in trust and excellence. By aligning with Acumen’s vision as a brand manufacturer, maintaining professional standards, and leveraging our support, you’ll thrive in delivering quality to your customers. Reach out with any questions or ideas—we’re here to help you succeed. Let’s drive innovation and safety together!
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