Play Meter

l ETTERS A comment Just read Valerie 's editorial CMarch '92l; good stuff! Let me add to this keep-thecustomer-happy bubble Cfor lack of a better terml. Don't you agree that a company in any industry has to have at the very least adequate service to still be in business? My point is tha t every company tries its best to service the customer and keep him happy. What really sets the operator apart from his competitors is organized league play on coin-op equipment. Why? Good question; I'll try to answer it. Run professionally, league play in the location creates a ton of goodwill for vendors. League play draws the Friday and Saturday bar bug back to that location on a slow night to participate (coin drop), drink, and eat. I don't know a location owner that wouldn't want an extra 10 to 12 people in his bar on a slow Tuesday. Most importantly, we have lost control. Location demands on the operator are the worst I've seen in my 16 years in this business. There is always a vendor that would take your location in a heartbeat if you don't respond to every childish whim for Joe the Owner. Leagues help get back the control that is vital. Leagues are run on equipment that stays, for the most part, on location for a long time. Your purchases go down, yes, but the operator that involves himself in operator-run leagues is healthy and will be able to afford the videos, music, etc. Finally, sure, do your best to keep your customer happy with service, but keep in mind it guarantees you nothing at all! Gain control of your customer by supplying him with clientele . That 's wha t locations understand and react to. Lou Larson Atlas Dist., Pittsburgh, PA F.A.B. ELECTRONICS 1 VANDERBILT AVEVUE PLEASANTVILLE, N.Y. 10570 (914) 769-5104 FAX (914) 769-0405 FAB-U-BALL Souo STATE ELECTRONICS 6' - Mini - 1 Piece Cabinet 1O' - Medium - 2 Piece Cabinet 13' - Standard - 2 Piece Cabinet Call Now For More Information! Good reading When Marcus Webb sent me a copy of"Shadows at Noon," written and published by his wife Margot W ebb, h e said it was primarily a children's book. I thoroughly agree- for children 8 to 80! PLAY METER 13 MAY 1992