Manufacturers and retailers who sell computers directly to consumers via the Internet have lower operating costs than stores such as Comp USA, whose primary business is in traditional retail stores. A special area will be created for hip, smart toys such as hand-held computers such as the Palm Pilot, as well as an arcade with video games in hopes of driving up traffic. The new site replaces CompUSA Direct, which combined mail-order and Internet sales. CompUSA does not break out sales, but its traditional retail sector has been struggling. As consumers learned more about technology, they became more knowledgeable than many sales clerks in traditional retail stores.
Costs are lower than the store owning the inventory and paying for moving it around.
Some have taken the online route outright. It sells computers, software and more. CompUSA has an issue because it needs to be all things to all people. CompUSA is gearing up for the expected wave by improving customer service. Sales associates undergo an online training program in order to meet consumers' concerns from a variety of skill levels.