Perhaps because we elicited responses from every segment of the industry, the feedback was all over the map. We heard gripes about direct-to-consumer marketing, "meaningless warranties," hidden costs, lack of competition among manufacturers and even a demand that retailers demonstrate "an aptitude for business management" before they are allowed to sell a given product line.
The responses touched on prominent issues as well as those that scarcely receive mention. Generally speaking they were thought provoking, imaginative and, at times, passionate. While some answers suggest strained relationships in the supply chain, they all seem to reflect genuine concern and a willingness to address some of the industry's nagging problems head-on.