It seems that it is getting to more routine for manufacturers to require certain standard requirements for dealers. We've seen that on a number of product lines such as motorcycles, many/most new car dealers, etc.. Dealers were required to meet certain standards such as displaying just about all models of a product line, allowing a specific minimum floor space, not allowing competitive products to be sold along with their product line.
In addition to making their product more prominent, a secondary effect is that it pushes out the small independent dealers. Usually, requiring standard sales area formats will end up with major cost for the dealers, eliminating the ability the smaller independent dealers to comply. Much, much larger inventory of parts is also practically required, which of course is yet another cost factor. Another, perhaps unintended effect, is that it eliminates non-standard pricing made possible for the small low investment dealers.
Sadly, this change kills the homey-like atmosphere of the small local dealers. No more having a friendly, sit down and have a cup of coffee type of atmosphere. It usually ends up feeling like an 'forget the friendliness, collect the money, and all business' atmosphere, which most of us definitely don't like. Before long I would not be at all surprised to see tractors and implements being sold only online like that Car-Vanna company sells cars basically out of a vending machine. For me however, buying a tractor or an implement takes a LOT more consideration than something like shoving a coin in a vending machine like buying a soft drink.
Their 'new' selling format make be great for them. But it's sure not for me.
