Date: Fri, 14 Apr 2000 00:45:41 -0400
From: Alan B Johnson <alanj@modempool.com>
To: balloon deco list <balloondeco@fooledya.com>
Subject: RE: Pioneer

What it all comes down to is Simple...  You must do what is best for
your own business.  I does'nt matter whether you are a Street Vendor,
Entertainer, Retailer, Decorator, Distributor or Manufacturer it all
boils down to that one simple statement.  Pioneer is no different than I
am in that respect.  If buying BSA was best for their business than that
is what they need to do.  I recently had to make new choices as far as a
distributor goes.  I could not rely upon them to be the best for my
business anymore, so I did what was best for my own business and created
some new relationships with other distributors.

I have a retail storefront, in addition to balloons I carry party goods,
novelties, gifts, collectibles, candy etc...  I have to say that no
other vendor offers me the kind of retailer support that Pioneer does.
I do not always agree with Pioneer, but I am always listened to and I do
feel that care about my thoughts.  I have had Dan Flynn come to my store
to discuss my thoughts and issues, I have had discussions with Tim
Vlamis both on the phone and at IBAC. I also have a wonderful Pioneer
Rep, Chris Hennesy, who comes to my store regularly to show me new
product, bring me samples & has offered his help and advice many times
No other vendor of mine has opened that kind of  open communication with
me. I share my thoughts and ideas with them and they share with me
through Images Magazine, IBAC, QBN etc...
I try to do what is best for my business.  I use Qualatex latex because
I can stake my reputation on it, however, I do try new things and try to
keep an open mind. but it still comes down to doing what is best for me.

Just my Thoughts

Alan Johnson
The Balloon Emporium, Ltd.
Jackson  MI  USA