[Harp-L] Hohner USA response re: prices, blister packs etc.

["Andy Garrigue" <AGarrigue@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

On behalf of Hohner USA, I would like to respond to the recent posts on Harp-L about Hohner's prices and blister packs. We have read all the posts, and would like to set the record straight, as there is some inaccuracy in some of the posts, and curiosity about our decisions. We hope the comments below will be helpful to all.

 

1.       Even with rising prices, the harmonica remains the lowest priced professional musical instrument available in the market today.

2.       Yes, there is a price increase effective 2/15/10 of 9 to 10% on most harmonica products, and Hohner is increasing prices on other instruments (accordions, ukuleles) as well. Whether, and when, this will translate into higher prices online and at stores is up to those dealers.

3.       We held off on a price increase as long as possible, but increased raw material costs and an unfavorable exchange rate with the Euro - which increased our costs -- required this decision.

4.       This price increase is Hohner's first since April 2008, i.e. its first rise in 22 months, and is 10% or less.

5.       Hohner is not increasing prices on the Marine Band Crossover. Retail will remain at $88 and Minimum Advertised Price, i.e. a rough guide to a "street" price,  is $59.

6.       The Marine Band Crossover is here to stay, and we are trying to replenish stock as fast as possible so that all dealers will be able to stock them if they wish. We are very gratified with the response from the playing community.

7.       Hohner offers premium harmonicas made in Germany since 1857 as well as a selection of value priced harmonicas made from the company's own factory in China. The Big River is the lowest priced MS series harmonica made in Germany, with retail rising to $32 from $29, and "street" price left up to the dealers. 

8.       Retail price for Marine Bands, Special 20s and Blues Harps will be $47-48, which puts them below the list price of some of the featured harmonicas of other brands. These are list prices; selling price varies.

9.       Blister packs are a new commitment by Hohner to offer tamper-proof packaging, store visibility and self service product information (i.e. a customer can learn about the products without needing a sales clerk), and soon - value-added content.

10.   Less than ½ of 1% of all harmonicas are ever returned as defective at time of purchase. Our rapid response warranty offers 2 day turnaround on harmonicas returned to us with a receipt within 30 days of purchase, for repair or exchange. Because the reliability of our products has improved over the years, we feel guaranteeing a harmonica has not been played or tampered with is more important than offering a product which must be tested before purchase. We also offer rapid response repair and replacement. Please see www.hohnerusa.com for info on both of these programs.

 

In closing, I'd like to say that Hohner greatly appreciates the support of the harmonica community, and Hohner will continue to make quality products, offer innovative new products, and where possible improve our products.

 

Andy Garrigue

Harmonica Marketing Manager

Hohner, Inc  USA