There are times when it is actually less expensive to produce fixtures in the U.S. and ship them to other countries. And if the value of the dollar is less than local currency, production costs may be less. Huey Johnson, president of Spacewall International, says that he and his international partners help each other find different materials around the world. Based on availability and pricing, we determine the best deal. Of course, if a retailer wants consistent quality and graphic conformity, cost may not be the determining factor.
Numerous members say that they are exporting fixtures on a regular or occasional basis.
Manufacturers have used a number of strategies to gain a foothold in international markets. The most popular method is to follow a retail client. Darling Store Fixtures began sending fixtures to Europe eight years ago, after its client moved there, says Kent Toomey, president. The long-standing contact with Japan and the general international movement of U.S. businesses has caused Darling to increase its global focus. Thomas Keen, president of HGA Products, relates that HGA expanded overseas through a request of one of its client's divisions.