Never been and am considering making the trip. I will mainly be looking at the vendor sections for a few maintenance tools, cases and cues. What kind of prices am I to expect? The same one I see online? Any small discounts applied? Full prices?
What kind of prices can be expected at the SBE?
- Thread starter Positively Ralf
- Start date
I've found that most venders want to sell as much merchandise as possible, so most are open to giving good deals if asked. Just make an offer and haggle a little. Good people there.
I would agree that most vendors will negotiate on bigger ticket items. Don't expect discounts on repair work.
Bring plenty cash. Even though a lot will probably have phone-linked credit card access nothing talks like Mr.Benjamin. Be direct and don't waste a sellers' time. I do a few gun shows and tire-kickers drive me nuts. They want to talk for twenty minutes and have ZERO intent on buying. Let 'em know you're a possible buyer and get 'er done.
The Expo is a great place to buy stuff and pick up supplies. Many vendors return year after year. I was able to meet Jack Justis, Ron Thomas, & John Barton in person. Bama cues, Don Sherman and others sellers from AZ as well.
J&J, Omega, and Muellers sold at the same price as their online stores. It was great, able to buy a gross of Masters without paying a hefty shipping charge.
I usually stock up on supplies while at SBX. One year I brought back a dozen racks from Muellers. These racks eventually ended up the founder of Megabucks league. I feel like I help kick start their tournaments by supplying them with good racks.
Discounts
If you're looking for Predator products, be aware authorized Predator dealers can't sell openly below a retail floor from manufacturers suggested retail. It will be the same price online.
Discount on Cases
Omega may discount their ACME cases. I picked up one two years ago when they were blowing these out. These cases with dual shoulder straps look very similar to what John Barton produces. I recently heard they discount at every show where Omega and John Barton are vending.
J&J, Omega, and Muellers sold at the same price as their online stores. It was great, able to buy a gross of Masters without paying a hefty shipping charge.
I usually stock up on supplies while at SBX. One year I brought back a dozen racks from Muellers. These racks eventually ended up the founder of Megabucks league. I feel like I help kick start their tournaments by supplying them with good racks.
Discounts
If you're looking for Predator products, be aware authorized Predator dealers can't sell openly below a retail floor from manufacturers suggested retail. It will be the same price online.
Discount on Cases
Omega may discount their ACME cases. I picked up one two years ago when they were blowing these out. These cases with dual shoulder straps look very similar to what John Barton produces. I recently heard they discount at every show where Omega and John Barton are vending.
May I suggest if you see something you like buy it immediately . It will be gone when you walk away. I wanted a case that someone was holding and considering.. I told the vendor I'll take it if they put it down. They did and I bought it. Was a JB 4/8 hybrid.
If you bought from them before...have any of their products...mention that....it might get you a loyalty discount.
If you bought from them before...have any of their products...mention that....it might get you a loyalty discount.
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You can find seconds and used stuff at a pretty good discount. Last one I went to I got a $400 retail McDermott for 240 because it had two very small flaws in the inlay material.
Thanks for the replies. Anyone know if any conversion sellers will be there? Would love to see some titliest conversion and others old cues.
This is very good advice. Years ago, I remember John Barton had a one off 2x4 case. I hesitated, came back and it was gone.
I bought a cue there last year. Having CASH was imperative to the deal.
