| Article Number : 4036 | 
| Article Detail | |
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| Date | 1/2/2009 9:51:16 AM | 
| Written By | LGM & Associates Technical Flooring Services | 
| View this article at: | //floorbiz.com/BizResources/NPViewArticle.asp?ArticleID=4036 | 
| Abstract | After months of planning and a four-month execution, Armstrong’s “What’s the Big Deal” promotion is in the books. And to say it was a success would be an understatement. When all was said and done, more than 7,000 retail sales associates participated in the promotion and hundreds became winners... | 
| Article | After months of planning and a four-month execution, Armstrong’s “What’s the Big Deal” promotion is in the books. And to say it was a success would be an understatement. When all was said and done, more than 7,000 retail sales associates participated in the promotion and hundreds became winners. “Everyone is sorry to see the ‘What’s the Big Deal’ promotion come to an end,” said Carlene Moloney, Armstrong’s residential consumer, trade and environmental marketing, floor products. “We have received numerous communications from sales associates who praised the program for its value, ease of participation and timeliness.” FCNews recently had the opportunity to talk to three November winners of $1,000: Justin Y. of Montana, Tim G. of California and Donna W. of Illinois. What made you enter the “What’s the Big Deal” Contest? Justin Y: I do everything, I enter everything. I like the idea of free money. It’s also good participation and I’ve picked up a lot of information from the [Armstrong] Web site. Tim G: We sell a lot of Armstrong products. I entered because Armstrong does very well in our town. Donna W: The incentive made me want to enter. I also really believe in the Armstrong product. I have it in my own home. Tell me about selling Armstrong products in your market. Justin Y: Armstrong is a brand people know and are very comfortable with. Because people know it, it’s easy to sell. Tim G: If customers are looking for quality, they’ll be happy with Armstrong. If they’re looking for a lower price, they’ll probably go with another product. Donna W: We haven’t noticed a decrease in our [Armstrong] business. What we’re finding is that remodeling is picking up where new homebuyers are leaving off. People are fixing up what they have rather than buying new. What Armstrong products sell best in your market? Justin Y: People here tend to like the oak—it’s tried and true. It can change the entire room but is not overwhelming like some of the exotics. Tim G: We’re in a town with a lot of kids and dogs, so laminate sells very well here, particularly Grand Illusions. Donna W: Bruce Park Avenue and Armstrong Grand Illusions do the best. They are really strong products in terms of visuals and warranty. The customers like the way they mimic real wood. What tools does Armstrong provide to help you sell its products? Justin Y: Our local rep is amazing. We have in-store training, and the Web site is very helpful. Tim G: I do a lot of my own research on the [Armstrong] Web sites. Donna W: Literature, incentive programs, good advertising and great reps. We even have Armstrong executives come in the store at times. What do you plan to do with your winnings? Justin Y: Bills! Just like every other salesperson. Tim G: I’m using my points for Christmas gifts and will probably pay bills with the cash. Donna W: A little vacation. |