By George Anderson
Best Buy believes it has a one-two punch combination that will put its competitors down for the count this holiday season.
First, it will take a swing with low prices on the season's most coveted consumer electronics. If that doesn't do the job, it will counter with a level of service that others playing the price game simple can't match.
Best Buy's general merchandise manager Ron Boire is looking to the "customer-centricity" initiative launched by the chain to keep customers streaming through the doors.
"Our value is in the differentiated experience," said Mr. Boire.
He also believes the consumer electronics chain will benefit from consumer demand for hot products such as Microsoft's Xbox 360, MP3 players and digital televisions.
Flat panel television sales at the chain have been growing at a triple digit rate this fall, according to Mr. Boire.
Moderator's Comment: Is Best Buy's "differentiated experience," as Ron Boire calls it, the key to the retailer's success this holiday season and beyond? Among the things Best Buy has done to differentiate itself, which is the most important in attracting and keeping customers coming back to the chain for their consumer electronics needs? - George Anderson - Moderator