On 30 Dec 2005 19:12:08 -0800, wrote:

If you get a chance there is a great article in the current issue of
FastCompany called "The Man Who Said No to Wal-Mart". The article is on
why the CEO of Snapper mowers (US made), Mr. Jim Wier, said NO and the
reasons behind it. Quite interesting.

Personally, I would have done the same thing. Maintain superior quality
with a name behind the brand, support local service and repair and keep
the integrity of the manufacturing business. Walmart suggested a
cheaper model, even outsourcing to a cheaper manufacture, while
maintaining a Snapper brand name. Mr. Wier made the right choice and
will not be known for tarnishing the Snapper brand name by introducing
a low quaility model.

http://www.fastcompany.com/magazine/

gary

"Pax Americana is a philosophy. Hardly an empire.
Making sure other people play nice and dont kill each other (and us)
off in job lots is hardly empire building, particularly when you give
them self determination under "play nice" rules.

Think of it as having your older brother knock the **** out of you
for torturing the cat." Gunner