Changing rooms?

I’m not saying that some of the networks are right to restrict their consumer products and services to only certain channels, but they do. And on the one hand we need to fight to change this. But on the other, independent mobile retailers need a strategy that can allow them to grow their business despite this. Too many have been closing their doors for good as they see the industry turn against them and no path for the future.

[pause for dramatic effect and ideally some really sad music]

Here at HSC towers we’ve been scratching our heads on this one for a while. What is a realistic step to make, that customers would buy into, that can open up new retail sales opportunities? What could go in the window to make people pop in next time they are passing rather than walk on by? We think we may have finally identified a little gap in the market which may suit some dealers. Maybe not all, but some mobile dealers with certain skills.

We’re talking about the home of the future.

Well when is the future and why can’t it be now? With many homes now happily using wi-fi for their home computing requirements the potential exists to expand this ‘home network’ to enhance communication and access to music and video amongst other home content. With a small investment in digital storage and routing equipment we could very quickly transform our homes into modern media centres all managed by central remote controls. It can be done lavishly to meet a premier league footballer’s every whim or it could be done in a controlled and cost-effective manner. The technology is all out there but where do you go to learn more about it and make it happen?

If your local retail parks and high streets are anything like ours there is no obvious starting point for this. You could while away some hours on Google and probably make a reasonable stab on your own but wouldn’t it be great to get a local specialist to pop round to your house and show you what could be done and how? I reckon I could spend some money on this if the right salesman got me. I’m even thinking of getting @hsctechsupport (using their Twitter name) to come round and give me some pointers. I’ll keep you informed.

Could this be an option for some independent mobile retailers feeling frustrated that they can’t get competitive mobile pricing? Or is this a leap too far? Who will emerge to fill this gap? CPW are certainly looking at it with their wireless world roll-out so there is a template to work towards.