Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM MAY 2019 52 Mike Whitaker Consumer Electronics Trends C onnected homes have long passed the first-adopter stage as they continue to grow exponentially. Connected homes are the new norm, and the tentacles of connection have spread far beyond the basics. Dealers in almost every category have seen a flood of connected innovations come to market. From appliances, to climate control, home security, lighting, and even bedding, our industries are enjoying unprecedented success through connectivity. And consumer electronics dealers and custom integrators are front and center in almost every conversation about connection. As a result, CE and CI dealers have become valued for their expertise and comfort with advanced electronics, and this confidence has generated high levels of trust among consumers. Of course, this represents an immense opportunity, and many dealers have taken advantage of the insatiable appetite for connectivity. However, there's an important aspect of the connectivity puzzle that we've too often overlooked. In the average household today, the bandwidth requirement is greater than ever. In many homes, the total number of connected devices can easily exceed a dozen. Tablets, smartphones, virtual assistants, doorbell cameras, speakers, an appliance or two, and an array of smart TV's and streaming devices create a huge burden on the often sub-standard Internet connection. The connected home requires a robust connection to allow consumers to enjoy the full connected experience, while avoiding the frustrations that can arise when the connection is inadequate to handle the load. Many dealers regularly face these bandwidth challenges today, and are unable to offer solutions. Isn't it time to shift the dynamic in our favor? Instead of depending on third-party providers to help the consumers solve their bandwidth issues, why not equip your business to address those issues yourself? Today, it's not only possible, but the path is clearer and easier than ever. Not so long ago, it seemed quite daunting to become an authorized dealer for a communications company such as AT&T. But in 2019 the ability to provide connectivity is a hurdle that your buying group can help you navigate with ease. Imagine being able to offer your customers not only the most advanced home theater equipment, but also the best connection and programming possible – all delivered from a one-stop shop? Imagine becoming the customer's indispensable resource when it comes to expanding their array of connected devices – even beyond the products you offer. The possibilities are exciting and potentially very profitable. If you're in the CE space, you're in the connected home, and today is the day to become the customer's best connectivity source as well. If you haven't made the connection, maybe it's time to get in touch with your buying group, or explore joining one in 2019! CONNECTION IS THE KEY Mike Whitaker, Nationwide Primemedia RO

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