The Edison phonograph monthly (Jan-Dec 1913)

10 EDISON PHONOGRAPH MONTHLY FOR FEB., 1913 SHOWING THE BLUE AMBEROLS To the Editor: No, this is not another tale of woe — I am writing to tell you about a window which arrested my attention the other day. And I am sure that the Edison Dealer who trimmed that window is going to make a big thing of the Blue Amberol Records, for he has started right and that is half the battle. In the first place the window was as clean and dustless as good hard scrubbing could possibly make it. The entire floor of the window was covered with white crepe paper which gave it a bright, cheerful and very clean appearance. The white paper also formed the background, and against it was placed the two placards "The Edison Blue Amberol Record can be played," etc., and "Mr. Edison announces his new Cylinder Record," etc. The blue in these placards made a striking contrast to the white so that they stood out like the bay window on a New York Policeman. In the center of the window stood a mahogany Amberola, and though the combination of red and blue probably might not pass muster in an art school, still it certainly impressed me as being decidedly effective. On each side of the Amberola was a small pyramid of Blue Amberol Cartons and in front were a few of the first Blue Supplements and some Blue Amberol Records. As you see, that window was simplicity itself, the only accessory being the white paper, and yet it -caught the eye and held it. The cheerful brightness suggested the pleasantness of Edison music, and the Blue Amberol was indelibly impressed upon the mind both by the color scheme and the placards. The statement that it can be played three thousand times cannot escape notice, and is sure to make an impression. So, there we have an excellent display at the cost of a few cents. Of course, it could have been more artistic and more elaborate, but it was effective, and that is all any one can ask of an inexpensive display. I will watch for other displays and matters of general interest, and drop you a line concerning them from time to time. The simplicity of the display referred to here seems to me to make it worth while considering. The Vagabond. DELIGHTED! FRANK E. BOLWAY, Oswego, N. Y., writes enthusiastically of a recent sale to Willard D. Straight. So delighted was the new owner with his Edison that he returned to Mr. Bolway's and purchased another Edison which he very kindly presented to the local branch of the Young Men's Christian Association. The Association is enthusiastic over its new acquisition, and a special concert was given on New Year's Day, for which an excellent program was arranged. The Association is now advertising for more Records, a note on the bottom of the program reading as follows: " The Association will appreciate the gift of Records or contributions toward their purchase. The gift of the instrument has made it possible to supply good music and the addition of new selections will greatly increase the educational and entertaining value of the Phonograph." Aside from the genuine enthusiasm which the qualities of the Edison have inspired in the owners of both machines, the advertising which the Edison has received — and will continue to receive — will be valuable to the Dealer. We expect to hear of more sales growing directly out of this one. RECORD RETURN GUIDE FOR FEBRUARY, 1913 AFTER February 1, 1913, U. S. Jobbers (M to Z) may return to the factory for credit under the conditions stipulated in Phonograph Sales Department Bulletin No. 118, dated September 17th, 1912, such wax Records as may be in stock to the extent of 15 per cent, of their Blue Amberol Record purchases and 7% per cent of their machine purchases. It is understood that any Wax Records may be returned under this agreement regardless of numbers and without reference to their being Amberol or Standard. Jobbers are also cautioned that the return allowance on machine purchases extends only over a period of six months from the time of the initial shipment of Blue Amberol Records. MAKE UP AND KEEP REVISED MAILING LISTS ONE of the most profitable methods that a Dealer can employ is that of going after prospective customers. Start a mailing list to-day! In fact make two lists in one. That is use two cards, one tinted and one white. Let the tinted card carry the names of those who already own Phonographs; let the white card carry the addresses of those who can be considered "prospects." Send each month a copy of the Phonogram and list of new Records to all on the tinted card; add also a card of invitation to call and hear some of the newest Records. The other list should include every family in your neighborhood who might be induced to own a Phonograph, and these should be followed up with a letter. Those who have given mailing lists a good trial find them very profitable in increasing their Edison business.