what’s going on with suppliers

Been in the business for long time and dealing with suppliers is get worse.

When was the last time you were shipped a complete order?  How long till back orders filled?

May be its just me, but backordering 4 and 8 g wire kits?

We've been getting "name" brand product that doesn't function properly, amps with one channel down, dvd players that freeze.

And with this they exspect use to cut 10 points off our margin to keep their prices compedative.

Not even gonig in to those companies that set a market price, exspect us to display and promote product for next to nothing(satilite radio, navi unit)

Anyone else frustrated, or is it just me?

All of your statements are true my friend. Some manufacturers and distributors are worse than others.

Stocking distributors are on a shoe string budget. holding minimum inventory levals. The back orders snowball.

Copper, good God man, copper will change price and availabilty almost overnight. The cost of a war, the cost of fuel......

There are some that will sit back and say "it's getting stronger" (the economy) well....it's not. OH.... BUT.....

Thank the world leader (GW Bush) for the economic stimulation package.  600.00 don't buy much gas.

Things are changing, and they will continue to change.