The top three biggest local competitors in my opinion are Kijiji, Bargain Hunter, and Facebook groups such as Sudbury Swap and Buy and Sudbury Buy and Sell. Pricing on all three platforms varies based on a number of factors such as year of the product, condition, presentation etc. As such, I am more focused on quality of the unit, how it’s presented, ease of purchase for the consumer as well as piece of mind rather than competing solely on price.
User can determine if they want to look for product outside of Sudbury
Potentially unsafe to meet with seller
Kijiji is Canada’s largest classified ads site since launching in 2005. They have an online presence on multiple social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube. I believe that Kijiji is my biggest competition because of the use of multiple platforms.
Bargain Hunter Magazine/Online Subscription
Locally owned and operated
Magazine is highly visible in areas consumers visit every day (convenience stores, grocery store, gas station etc.)
Must subscribe to view content online
Must purchase the magazine (not free)
Like Kijiji regarding buyer beware
The Bargain Hunter is an established magazine in Sudbury that is trusted among residents. However, with the availability of searching for almost anything online for free, I feel as though this avenue may not be frequented as often by potential consumers because of the required subscription and fee.
Local Facebook groups (Sudbury Swap and Buy, Sudbury Buy and Sell etc.)
You are notified if friends or family are selling items
You can research a little bit about the seller
Huge amount of time is spent on this forum
Anything you post or like can be seen by your friends (privacy issues)
Difficult to coordinate with seller
The Facebook groups are considered competition because people are on this platforms for hours on end each day, thus being more likely to come across a used appliance they may need, or this may be the first place they look. However, in my experience, it is quite difficult to reach the seller if you are not friends with them, as well the quality of the item you want to purchase may not be accurate.
Overall, I feel that the Notre Dame Girl Pre-Owned Appliances provides customers with a unique experience where they can frequent a place of business rather than meeting with a stranger in an unfamiliar location. This business is also unique from the competition by providing customers with a warranty and a guarantee that all units are in working order when purchased.
