Centrotec Bit Asst

[bill-e]

Just a comment on the kit.  I think it a bit odd that two Centrotec chucks are included since all drivers purchased since Centrotec was introduced included the chuck.

Thinking about this kit I've come up with an idea that I'm going to send off to Christian and I'd like your feedback.

My thought is to let the dealers sell custom kits.

Festool knows exactly how much profit both the company and the dealer make on this kit and for the sake of argument let's just say it's 10%

So why not allow the dealers to create some kits which are discounted and still provide the same profit margins?

The price range of the kit will be established.  Say the kit must total out after discount to between $200-$400 (or whatever)

There are probably items which Festool will want in every kit.  Systainer, foam inserts, maybe some high profit margin stuff.

But it seems to me that a few custom kits could be put together which would more closely match the US market.  Maybe even include some of the other chucks in the more expensive variants.

All the work would be on the Dealer (make them earn their money)

Comments?

 

[Dave Ronyak]

And time to add the square (Roberts) drivers!

Dave R.

 

[Dan Clark]

Initially, I was very interested in this set.  Then when I looked closer I realized that I had already purchased most of what was included in the set and didn't need much of the rest.   Although the set looks great, it has only about $100 worth of incremental value to me.   I.e., not worth the bucks given my situation.

I agree with Bill, it would be nicer to have sets more customized for my needs.  The systainer and inserts are very valuable to me.   I have a large number of drill bits in imperial sizes that are close enough to metric sizes that it's good enough.   My bit holders handle all of bits available.   Another couple of Centrotec chucks would be nice, but my original one is still going strong.   So it leaves the screw bits...

This brings us to the crux of the issue - user needs and size/availability of fasteners in this (US) market.   The set includes Torx, Pozidrive, and Phillips bits.  The problem for me is that my first choice is always Torx.  However, many (most?) pocket hole screws are available in square drive only.   Most special purpose screws like drywall screws and screws that come in a fixture package are Phillips and maybe a few are slotted slotted.    I haven't seen too many Pozidrive drive screws available, and don't see the reason to choose them over Torx or Square drive.   So where does that leave us?

I already have maybe 50 or so Torx bits, a bunch of square drive bits, a bunch of Phillips bits, a few Pozidrive bits, and a few slotted screw bits.  I bought them as I needed them. and the number, size and length match my needs.   

According to the product description, about 1/2 of the set value is in bits.  Unfortunately that combo doesn't match my needs. 

A better path...

I think a better path would be to sell the Systainer + insert as an option.   Then offer a package that included the Systainer\insert plus a "Chinese Menu" of drill bit packs, drive bit packs, and bit holder packs.  Let the Festool Dealers integrate the packs, but keep the packs "packaged" so it won't overburden the Dealer.   Keep the pricing simple.   Full price for the Systainer/insert, then 5% off for the Systainer/insert plus one or two packs, and maybe 10% off for the Systainer/insert plus three or more packs.   

The key to any packaging scheme is that it provides value for the customer at a reasonable cost, and provides a fair return for both Festool and the Dealers, and doesn't overburden the Dealers.  If there's no value for users, they won't buy it.  If there's limited return for Festool, they won't create it.   If there's limited return for Dealers or it's a hassle to package and sell it, they won't sell it. 

It's like a three-legged stool.  Take away one leg and it will topple over.   Right now, we have a two legged stool.  The set provides value to Festool and the Dealers, and is easy to sell, but it doesn't provide enough value to users.   Change the last part and keep the first two parts, and you have a winner.

All of the above is obviously "IMO".

Dan.

p.s. Yes, the packs should offer square drive bits.

 

[Dave Ronyak]

Good ideas, Dan.  Are you sure your not a marketing man?  (Just kidding!!)

Dave R.

 

[Eli]

That logic could be called the "Fes-Stool" theory....

 

[Dan Clark]

Good ideas, Dan.  Are you sure your not a marketing man?  (Just kidding!!)

Dave R.

15 years (not kidding)