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Post by Richie3Jack on Jan 22, 2013 14:40:51 GMT -5
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Post by cwdlaw223 on Jan 22, 2013 17:06:25 GMT -5
How can they compete against Edel regarding customization AND fitting?
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Post by Richie3Jack on Jan 22, 2013 18:55:59 GMT -5
How can they compete against Edel regarding customization AND fitting? Edel and Scratch are in similar markets, but have different business models. As far as customization goes, Scratch is more about customizing everything to what the customer wants. Edel is more about customizing everything MORE towards what the customer needs. For example, anybody with the money can go to Scratch and get a set of irons made and designed about exactly as we would like. If I wanted a set of Scratch irons designed just like the Hogan Bounce Sole 1+ with a certain degree more bounce angle, forged with an antique finish with the logo in a certain spot, Nippon shafts and GripMaster USA leather grips, I can get that. If I go to Edel, the customization is more geared towards performance. Getting the irons with the right bounce angle for my swing, the right lofts, grips, shafts, etc. You can get some nice customization if you have the money, but you're not going to get a Bounce Sole 1+ replication For long term growth, I think Edel is in much better shape. The problem they face is that since they do such a good job with fitting, they do not get a lot of repeat business. Thus, they charge more...but, the customers generally find it's worth it and Edel does put in a ton of labor in building each club. Scratch probably gets a higher rate of repeat business because their customer base probably has more much more money and is fanatical about equipment. And granted, they charge more at Scratch because the materials and labor are more expensive. But, you do have two companies that are different in products and profile. Also, Scratch is a bit of an internet darling. Edel has gotten a bit of a bad rep because of the situation with James Harrington. Which is too bad because I was at the 2011 PGA Show when Harrington told me personally that the wedge design was Mike Adams' brainchild (Adams has been grinding wedges for decades and was a big fan of the Ping Eye 2 wedge design). But, perception often dominates reality. I like both companies, a lot. But there's enough difference there for both companies to exist. However, I can't imagine Scratch is doing well since they are not on the Exhibitor List at the PGA Show. 3JACK |
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Post by cwdlaw223 on Jan 22, 2013 19:48:12 GMT -5
Good points Richie. I don't think it's a good sign if you aren't at the show. I suspect money is tight and they're saving on marketing. Just get a small booth, but show up and meet everyone.
I think Scratch should stick with irons and/or drivers. I still prefer the Mizuons butter forgings. I'll be tempted with the Miuras this winter since my fitter is a rep. I need to see some Tman info before I consider switching. The C Taper really tightened up my dispersion and I love the feel. DGs seem too soft now and PX feel too hard. C Taper is just right.
It seems like 98% of those in the golf business don't make money or are always hanging on for dear life. I now the 2nd or 3rd owner of a golf course has the best chance to make money. The 1st? Forget it (although Bandon Dunes might be the exception).
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Post by Richie3Jack on Jan 22, 2013 21:59:27 GMT -5
Scratch says that the driver business is too expensive to get into. I know Wishon has done very well with their drivers, but it takes a lot of R&D and the right type of marketing to work. I know they were really pressing to get a forging house in Chicago to do their forgings for them. That would allow them to get better inventory and quality control and to better do their finishes. But that fell thru.
As far as golf courses go, I was told by a well-known consultant that golf courses won't make it unless they own the land. Just no way possible.
3JACK
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jamo
'88 Apex Redlines
Posts: 142
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Post by jamo on Jan 22, 2013 23:59:30 GMT -5
I've actually got a Scratch custom putter that I won in a contest through MyGolfSpy a few years ago. I asked for and got a smaller-than-normal Anser-style blade. It's nice (especially the fact that the only things written on it are the Scratch logo and my name), and the magnetic headcover is awesome, but it's nothing all that special. I certainly wouldn't pay $999 for it. It lost the space in my bag to an older Nike Unitzed last year and I don't see that changing.
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