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October 9, 1943
SHOWMEN'S TRADE REVIEW
27
DEALER-EXHIBITOR RELATIONS
THE theatre equipment dealers, who deserve far more prominence than they have been given for their work in supplying theatres with the necessities of operation during a period of supreme test of their intelligence and willingness to serve unselfishly, came into the spotlight briefly a couple of weeks ago at the convention of the Theatre Equipment Dealers Protective Association at Chicago.
This journal has consistently urged the recognition due the established dealers by theatremen, so it is with no desire to underestimate one whit the outstanding contribution of the dealers that we point out here a fact of which this industry can be very proud. That fact is that, assured by leading manufacturers and distributors of theatre equipment early in the days after Pearl Harbor that the government meant to keep theatres operating, the exhibitors have cooperated with their dealers by restricting their buying to necessity only.
That there has been a highly expert job done by the manufacturers and dealers in maintaining a flow of equipment necessary for replacement is a truth demonstrated by the records showing that no theatre has been darkened because of any lack of necessary apparatus.
But, fine as has been the record of the manufacturers and dealers in this respect, the results achieved would not have been possible without a most cooperative attitude on the part of the vast majority of theatremen. These theatre owners might have succumbed to a perfectly natural urge for self-preservation of their business by over-stocking, at least a little sparepart buying for protection's sake, but there has been no such "hoarding" and selfishness displayed by theatremen — more power to them for their patriotic motives in this respect.
One of the most important improvements this department looks for as a result of the trials of wartime operation after the victory is won, is that there will exist such a wholesome, and well merited, attitude within the industry as regards the relations of the equipment manufacturers and dealers and the theatre owners. The post-war era, we are convinced, will find those established dealers who know their field so well and have served it so faithfully during the war enjoying a confidence and respect of theatremen which will greatly affect the whole good cause of theatre equipment design and supply.