Stephen,
as an example - goods bought on 01/07/08 - at peak Aussie dollar. Retailer has already imported the goods, and they have a dollar value in Australia roughly equivalent to the currency exchange rate and profit margin on top of it. I saw plenty of retailers pumping up prices on items that were *already* in stock, before the dollar crashed. If memory serves me correct, the CDK planewave @ Bintel was AU 14K pre crash, within a week of the crash, it was suddenly 17k! I stand by my words - profiteering.
True, I can vote with my wallet, and did.
Dave
Quote:
Originally Posted by redesford
I agree in part, but I have noticed BinTel have been reducing prices on some items in recent months, as the Aussie Dollar has been improving. For example the range of Meade SCT's have dropped after hitting a high earlier this year.
I do not agree with your line "when the dollar plunged, they increased their retail prices and used it as an excuse". If the Aussie dollar dropped of course their imported products are going to rise, why wouldn't they?
You simply vote with your wallet, or when you ring the business for a price or quote, and it's too high, tell them, politely. You comments may just filter through to the management, who might just listen.
Don't get me wrong I wish all astro gear was half the price it was but they are in the business of making money, not giving away telescope gear. There are bills to be paid and staff to pay.
I choose to support local businesses as much as possible and only buy overseas if I cannot get the item locally. I do not expect many to agree with me however.
This is a worn out arguement anyway and pops up on many forums with the utmost regularity.
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