Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
-
- Posts: 200
- Joined: Mon Oct 07, 2013 6:36 pm
- Reaction score: 0
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
Round and around we go again... as mentioned this topic has been covered before. However much I enjoy Coventry, I think TreeFrog hit the nail on the head. Sometimes I have a busy Sunday, taking kids to football etc.. and the item I want and ONLY interested in is within the first 10 mins of the auction, it would be great to pay and go (providing I win the thing!), I don't particularly want to hang around for several hours just to pay for the one item. Not everyone that enjoys collecting slots wants the social aspect, I have a busy social life elsewhere with family and friends!
As for the FREE entry, fantastic. It may encourage more new faces (and younger ones too) to "pop" along and just maybe become hooked by the mechanical slot machine. I do feel that sometimes regular collectors want to keep it an exclusive closed shop just for the die hard collectors.
I think Elephant has gone a way to achieving this "open house", "Everyone is welcome" attitude, as every auction has new younger faces appear, whether they are there for buying or just browsing, they may become the collectors of the future!
As always, always enjoy ANY auction that keeps the Slot alive, thanks guys!
As for the FREE entry, fantastic. It may encourage more new faces (and younger ones too) to "pop" along and just maybe become hooked by the mechanical slot machine. I do feel that sometimes regular collectors want to keep it an exclusive closed shop just for the die hard collectors.
I think Elephant has gone a way to achieving this "open house", "Everyone is welcome" attitude, as every auction has new younger faces appear, whether they are there for buying or just browsing, they may become the collectors of the future!
As always, always enjoy ANY auction that keeps the Slot alive, thanks guys!
- badpenny
- Forum Moderator
- Posts: 7221
- Joined: Thu May 05, 2005 12:41 pm
- Reaction score: 28
- Location: East Midlands
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
I disagree, those aren't The questions, those are your questions. If you won't suggest alternative options then you're not part of the solution.jukeboxjury wrote:First of all I was not commenting on how long it took to pay and get your goods for the last auction as I was not there. I was not there because of past auctions where it did take forever to pay etc.
Now I understand, you were commenting on something you didn't attend or experience.
Judging from the initial other comments, I think I would be wasting my time in explaining how you could run it, as reading from past auction comments and this recent one, I am obviously dealing with many "Died In The Wool" attitudes of "We've Always Done It This Way" quarter length coat with toggles and hood people.(well hush my mouth)
I invited you to tell us how, you'd already decided you wouldn't, all a bit pointless really. I can't help feeling you're dropping pebbles in ponds to watch the ripples.
I understand that there are many people who go to Coventry because it is not only an auction but a social event which they enjoy just as much as the auction and get pleasure from. That is fine if that is all you want it to be, "Collecting For Collectors". However there has been comments along the lines that, most people who attend are of the older generation and prompting the question where are the new younger collectors going to come from. I suggest it won't be from Coventry.
I've always found those that say "People are saying" need to realise they are only self appointed spokesmen, let the others speak for themselves.
Younger people have different priority's and attitudes to life than most of the people my age today. I have two 20+ year olds to remind me of that every day "Dad move with the times or get left behind" Some people don't have the time or inclination to wait until the end of an auction to pay and collect.
You are of course spot on there, and let's face up to the fact that being able to examine, play, bid and buy such fantastic machines is a common occurrence. Most weekends there are Slot Auctions being held on almost every street corner. Why should you travel to Coventry to attend ours? Sure beats me.
I would have attended the last Coventry auction as it looked like there was some really nice machines which I may well have bid on, but you never know how long it is going to take to pay and get away. As I was on late shift that night I decided I could not take the risk of not getting back in time.
And that is the real essence of your issue. Sadly the world doesn't cater for everybody's work demands all the time. We have attendees from North of Scotland and mainland Europe. One of our strong supporters used to rush off to milk his cows. They come if they can, that's all there is to it really.
How difficult would it be for Coventry Auction to do that? the "Collecting For Collectors" would still be able to have their day out and the social intercourse that they desire, happy as Larry, and I and other like minded people would be happy as it would mean we could arrive and depart at times that would suit without all the hassle.
I don't understand "Collecting For Collectors" We used to take a break at half time for those that wanted to pay, collect and go, but found the majority then stayed on and wanted to bid further after the break which cocked the system up no end as their account had been closed to enable them to go. Total confusion reigned
The questions are. 1. Will Coventry change and bring it's self in to the 21st Century. 2. Does it really want to attract new and younger collectors. I think I already know the answer to those two questions, however I'm prepared to be surprised . "Keep on Collecting"
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
Ah, BP. Always a pleasure to enjoy your eloquence!
For me, I have never been to Coventry simply because I have never been lucky enough to experience all those 'go' factors I needed; a spare day, an allwin there that I really want and enough spare cash to have a reasonable chance to buy it. For me, it is just too far to go window shopping.
But when I do go and I do win that machine, I will be very happy to sit and drink tea until I can pay and take my new 'baby' home. It will be worth it.
PS: living in the 21st Century is not all it is cracked up to be. Personally, I would like to live in the early '70s (or Normandy, which is pretty close to how England was in the 1970s).
For me, I have never been to Coventry simply because I have never been lucky enough to experience all those 'go' factors I needed; a spare day, an allwin there that I really want and enough spare cash to have a reasonable chance to buy it. For me, it is just too far to go window shopping.
But when I do go and I do win that machine, I will be very happy to sit and drink tea until I can pay and take my new 'baby' home. It will be worth it.
PS: living in the 21st Century is not all it is cracked up to be. Personally, I would like to live in the early '70s (or Normandy, which is pretty close to how England was in the 1970s).
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
Oh, it would be the sixties for me please!
Are you really putting up the buyer's commission to 10%? The 6% rate is a great attraction for me and I'm sure for many others. Personally I'm not bothered about waiting until the end to pay. I regard the auction as a day out. It's a two hour drive for me but I figure it's worth it even if I do always get lost finding my way in and out of that dreadful ring road and its constant roadworks. There's not much I like about the 21st century but my beloved satnav is one of them.
Are you really putting up the buyer's commission to 10%? The 6% rate is a great attraction for me and I'm sure for many others. Personally I'm not bothered about waiting until the end to pay. I regard the auction as a day out. It's a two hour drive for me but I figure it's worth it even if I do always get lost finding my way in and out of that dreadful ring road and its constant roadworks. There's not much I like about the 21st century but my beloved satnav is one of them.
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
I went to the auction last week. Driving up from London just to take the time to look at some of the machines I played when much younger and some I had never seen before. A great opportunity that only this auction offers. Paid my entrance fee, took the time to see if there were any machines I wanted to bid on. As I didn't want to bid I left prior to the auction starting. I will be there next time and appreciate the time and effort that goes into these auctions. Please keep up the good work. If you can't make it for personal reasons, whatever they are, I see no benefit in moaning about it. Just get on with your busy lives elsewhere.
-
- Posts: 144
- Joined: Wed Aug 12, 2009 7:46 pm
- Reaction score: 0
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
I think Coventry depends on whose point of view you are looking at it from.
As a buyer I would be happy the way it is currently set up. Not particularly user friendly and not fabulously well advertised. A good opportunity to purchase something without having to bid against a group of people sitting in their living rooms using an internet auction site to dip in for five minutes on the one item they want and pushing the price up horrendously.
As a seller you take the chance that, although the machine you are selling has not been spread far and wide the "real" buyers are going to be there and are going to go up against each other to take your prized possession home. Generally works well with the most sought after times for sale. The football machine is an ideal example of that. Although personally I think that sold quite cheaply.
I haven't been for the last couple of auctions because there has been little that I would have wanted to bid on and like a few others didn't want to wait right to the end to buy. everybody knows the rules before they attend and we are all adults so can make our minds up before going whether we are going to take a packed lunch and sit it out.
Coventry filled a gap. It allowed the opportunity for machines to come to the market again away form eBay. Elephant House exploited that gap and put a real commercial twist on it. It just depends what people want. I like the collecting for collectors idea personally and I think Coventry's success lies in its quirkiness, providing of course that sellers are going to continue using it. No sellers no auction...
on another note. Has anyone had any success in being re-united with their deposits after using Elephant House's absentee bid system? i'm still waiting and its impossible to get hold of anyone. i know, fool and money easily parted etc...
As a buyer I would be happy the way it is currently set up. Not particularly user friendly and not fabulously well advertised. A good opportunity to purchase something without having to bid against a group of people sitting in their living rooms using an internet auction site to dip in for five minutes on the one item they want and pushing the price up horrendously.
As a seller you take the chance that, although the machine you are selling has not been spread far and wide the "real" buyers are going to be there and are going to go up against each other to take your prized possession home. Generally works well with the most sought after times for sale. The football machine is an ideal example of that. Although personally I think that sold quite cheaply.
I haven't been for the last couple of auctions because there has been little that I would have wanted to bid on and like a few others didn't want to wait right to the end to buy. everybody knows the rules before they attend and we are all adults so can make our minds up before going whether we are going to take a packed lunch and sit it out.
Coventry filled a gap. It allowed the opportunity for machines to come to the market again away form eBay. Elephant House exploited that gap and put a real commercial twist on it. It just depends what people want. I like the collecting for collectors idea personally and I think Coventry's success lies in its quirkiness, providing of course that sellers are going to continue using it. No sellers no auction...
on another note. Has anyone had any success in being re-united with their deposits after using Elephant House's absentee bid system? i'm still waiting and its impossible to get hold of anyone. i know, fool and money easily parted etc...
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
I have been interested in the never ending story ( like to queue to pay at the end ) and the usual comments and criticisms of out of date practices, I was especially intrigued by the story of having a break midway through, the best idea that unfortunately seems to have been dropped due to people paying, closing their account then buying something else later, confusion and more waiting around!
Other auctions I've attended in the past who have employed this method, when paying at this time the cashier always asks whether you are going to continue to bid, If yes hang on to your bidding card, if no hand it in, collect your purchase and clear off...............simples!
Perhaps a word with your own auctioneer might advise you on his own procedure if he is a professional and not some bloke down the pub. ( mind you I did wonder a couple of auctions ago when we timed 68 lots an hour, he couldn't do that down here if you can't do at least a 100 lots an hour you would be strung up by the feet!)
I digress, hopefully the powers to be might reconsider introducing your payment in the break scheme again even if its a one off, this will help everyone and perhaps stop the moaning as well, its all very well to say if you don't like it don't bother coming but that really isn't encouraging new members to what seems like a closed shop.
Other auctions I've attended in the past who have employed this method, when paying at this time the cashier always asks whether you are going to continue to bid, If yes hang on to your bidding card, if no hand it in, collect your purchase and clear off...............simples!
Perhaps a word with your own auctioneer might advise you on his own procedure if he is a professional and not some bloke down the pub. ( mind you I did wonder a couple of auctions ago when we timed 68 lots an hour, he couldn't do that down here if you can't do at least a 100 lots an hour you would be strung up by the feet!)
I digress, hopefully the powers to be might reconsider introducing your payment in the break scheme again even if its a one off, this will help everyone and perhaps stop the moaning as well, its all very well to say if you don't like it don't bother coming but that really isn't encouraging new members to what seems like a closed shop.
-
- Posts: 762
- Joined: Thu Feb 02, 2006 6:05 pm
- Reaction score: 0
- Location: staffordshire
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
is the solution to bring back pay and take away half way through the auction !!! it worked before and leave everything else as it is ?? the queue at the end would less....... Coventry is not your normal auction it is a collectors run one........ there is no other auction you can get paid cash on the day if your sell a lot, it can only work if cash in then cash out.... so there will be some waiting..... but I think the half way pay and go would please a lot of people...... ohhhhhh that's me
- coppinpr
- Posts: 5139
- Joined: Sun Oct 10, 2010 2:01 pm
- Reaction score: 27
- Location: Lewes, East Sussex
- Contact:
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
Reading ALL the posts, it's clear that everyone would like to see some changes to the auction, however, these changes fall into three groups: those that are practical and helpful, those that are not practical even if helpful, and those that are wrong.
From the posts above and not always my view:
Practical
Wider advertising
Better social links for those who want to meet up with new faces.
Not practical
Pay as you go (this, sadly, can not work at this auction. The movement of cash would be a security risk; the people who do the pay in/out are busy during the auction; people who sold items would see items being collected and want their money so they could leave as well; removing machines from a venue where the crowd stand amongst the machines would be a hassle and a safety risk.
Moving the venue this, although it would I think increase the numbers is, perhaps, not on. The auction has become a Coventry regular and the organisers have more than enough to do without looking for suitable venues.
Half time pay break a good idea but raises more problems - accounts have to be calculated (which is why there is a long gap at the end before payments begin), also sellers would want their money too if they wanted to leave; the time this would take would, of course, make the final auction end much later, allowing the casual buyer to get all the benefits while the dedicated buyer has to pay the penalty.
Getting JC to stop playing that music - impossible.
Wrong
Leaving the thing totally unchanged With respect to those who do so much work on the auction, it's clear from most posts that some things need to be at least tweaked, and some things mentioned could be improved at no extra cost or time.
Not allowing people outside the current group to help This always surprises me - we hear about the mass of work involved (and I'm sure this is true) but if you ask if they need any help, you are soon sent packing.
Online catalogues I don't know if JC is really considering this but, (and this is only my view so far) this would be a mistake. It would narrow the fan base even further and reduce the attendance. How many times have you first looked at the catalogue, thought there is nothing of interest, then picked it up days later only to find just what you wanted? The trouble with online catalogues is you look through them then only print it if you see something you want there and then.
Bottom line is, things will not change... at least not much. Improvements need to be made if the boys intend to continue far into the future, but it is what it is. If you don't like it, don't go... and miss a good day!
And remember, nothing is impossible... JC might at least turn the music down, after all BP DID change his T shirt (although the choice of a Rolf Harris one was a little odd).
From the posts above and not always my view:
Practical
Wider advertising
Better social links for those who want to meet up with new faces.
Not practical
Pay as you go (this, sadly, can not work at this auction. The movement of cash would be a security risk; the people who do the pay in/out are busy during the auction; people who sold items would see items being collected and want their money so they could leave as well; removing machines from a venue where the crowd stand amongst the machines would be a hassle and a safety risk.
Moving the venue this, although it would I think increase the numbers is, perhaps, not on. The auction has become a Coventry regular and the organisers have more than enough to do without looking for suitable venues.
Half time pay break a good idea but raises more problems - accounts have to be calculated (which is why there is a long gap at the end before payments begin), also sellers would want their money too if they wanted to leave; the time this would take would, of course, make the final auction end much later, allowing the casual buyer to get all the benefits while the dedicated buyer has to pay the penalty.
Getting JC to stop playing that music - impossible.
Wrong
Leaving the thing totally unchanged With respect to those who do so much work on the auction, it's clear from most posts that some things need to be at least tweaked, and some things mentioned could be improved at no extra cost or time.
Not allowing people outside the current group to help This always surprises me - we hear about the mass of work involved (and I'm sure this is true) but if you ask if they need any help, you are soon sent packing.
Online catalogues I don't know if JC is really considering this but, (and this is only my view so far) this would be a mistake. It would narrow the fan base even further and reduce the attendance. How many times have you first looked at the catalogue, thought there is nothing of interest, then picked it up days later only to find just what you wanted? The trouble with online catalogues is you look through them then only print it if you see something you want there and then.
Bottom line is, things will not change... at least not much. Improvements need to be made if the boys intend to continue far into the future, but it is what it is. If you don't like it, don't go... and miss a good day!
And remember, nothing is impossible... JC might at least turn the music down, after all BP DID change his T shirt (although the choice of a Rolf Harris one was a little odd).
- bryans fan
- Posts: 822
- Joined: Mon Feb 03, 2003 10:15 pm
- Reaction score: 7
- Location: Somerset
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
I, like many others, have followed this saga for the past few years. The posts seem to just go round in circles. I have hesitated to post anything because it seems to be just repeating what has already been posted. Also I sometimes fear voicing an opinion, as occasionally when people offer an opinion it seems to cause a lot of angry retorts.
However, there are points I would like to make.
1. Steve ( EH ) runs an Auction house, holding regular auctions in a building used solely for that purpose, with all the advantages of a proper auction house. This leads to increased costs, in that the commission is 10%. Having watched several machines of the Bryans variety go through "proper" Auction houses recently, (Cornwall and Canterbury), their commission is 20%!
To bid on line is a FURTHER 3%! I do not know if there is a charge for telephone bidding.
2. Jerry and Jeremy started this "Annual" Auction off their own bat. Done solely for the benefit of regular subscribers. It was a meeting of slotties, with tables available to rent, to sell from, and with the added attraction of an Auction. Although they must make some money doing the Auction, I would guess it is more a question of covering their expenses. Steve is running a business.
3. The Auction has evolved, but I think there needs to be some changes. Nothing should just stay the same for the sake of it. I think the two J`s need to listen to the opinions of the majority and see if they can tweak it a bit.
4. Simply moaning does nothing to help. It is not an Auction house nor a business. I don`t agree with the attitude of "if you don`t like it tough!" But I do think if the event is to continue, it needs to change/ evolve.
To sum up, I go to Steve's Auction, or any other Auction for that matter, if there is a machine I am interested in.
Pre internet I have been up at 5am, driven three and a half hours, attended the auction (at a racecourse , got home at 9pm or 10pm at night. It was a test of endurance rather than a pleasure! I think with ebay peoples' expectations have changed. I prefer to deal with real people face to face.
I go to Coventry to meet people, and perhaps buy a machine / spares/ books if there is something there I want. We know the date(s ) far in advance and surely can clear our diaries for them. Steve continually chooses significant dates to hold Auctions, i.e. Mother's Day etc.
I think the main complaint appears to be the queue to pay in and out, and that would seem to be the problem to address. If people lose confidence in the Auction then they will be reluctant to enter lots, and then people will not bother going. It is a vicious circle. The Cast Iron Football Game and the collector selling his Bryans machines at the last two, are surely the exception. The Auction relies on Collectors putting in the odd machine or two.
I do hope it can continue
Please excuse the spelling mistakes! I rely on spell check and can`t find one on here!
However, there are points I would like to make.
1. Steve ( EH ) runs an Auction house, holding regular auctions in a building used solely for that purpose, with all the advantages of a proper auction house. This leads to increased costs, in that the commission is 10%. Having watched several machines of the Bryans variety go through "proper" Auction houses recently, (Cornwall and Canterbury), their commission is 20%!
To bid on line is a FURTHER 3%! I do not know if there is a charge for telephone bidding.
2. Jerry and Jeremy started this "Annual" Auction off their own bat. Done solely for the benefit of regular subscribers. It was a meeting of slotties, with tables available to rent, to sell from, and with the added attraction of an Auction. Although they must make some money doing the Auction, I would guess it is more a question of covering their expenses. Steve is running a business.
3. The Auction has evolved, but I think there needs to be some changes. Nothing should just stay the same for the sake of it. I think the two J`s need to listen to the opinions of the majority and see if they can tweak it a bit.
4. Simply moaning does nothing to help. It is not an Auction house nor a business. I don`t agree with the attitude of "if you don`t like it tough!" But I do think if the event is to continue, it needs to change/ evolve.
To sum up, I go to Steve's Auction, or any other Auction for that matter, if there is a machine I am interested in.
Pre internet I have been up at 5am, driven three and a half hours, attended the auction (at a racecourse , got home at 9pm or 10pm at night. It was a test of endurance rather than a pleasure! I think with ebay peoples' expectations have changed. I prefer to deal with real people face to face.
I go to Coventry to meet people, and perhaps buy a machine / spares/ books if there is something there I want. We know the date(s ) far in advance and surely can clear our diaries for them. Steve continually chooses significant dates to hold Auctions, i.e. Mother's Day etc.
I think the main complaint appears to be the queue to pay in and out, and that would seem to be the problem to address. If people lose confidence in the Auction then they will be reluctant to enter lots, and then people will not bother going. It is a vicious circle. The Cast Iron Football Game and the collector selling his Bryans machines at the last two, are surely the exception. The Auction relies on Collectors putting in the odd machine or two.
I do hope it can continue
Please excuse the spelling mistakes! I rely on spell check and can`t find one on here!
- badpenny
- Forum Moderator
- Posts: 7221
- Joined: Thu May 05, 2005 12:41 pm
- Reaction score: 28
- Location: East Midlands
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
Good comments all round, thanks.
However we're still hearing "Whats" and not "Hows"
It is tempting to say "That's the way we run it, if you're not happy don't bother coming" However I do believe 99% of you all are well meaning and offer your suggestions not solely from a "What's in it for me" angle.
So I shall share a few lessons we have learnt the hard way, how many other sales events would do that?
Paying before the auction is finished and leaving with your new toys = Elected Members of Parliament reflect the needs of their constituents.
It's an ideal and very easy to say..
Paying and leaving before the end.
The person inputting onto the laptop needs to be close to the auctioneer because the sheets need to be passed manually. It's too distracting for everybody in the room to have others up there talking. Not acceptable.
The more observant will notice occasions when reference needs to be made back to the auctioneer to clarify something, so sitting anywhere else only causes added work. Plus of course would be a security worry. The system is interrogating several spreadsheets continuously, in order to work out somebody's account the system needs to be closed down and restarted in a different mode, and then restarted back in input mode to continue updating. Guess what's going to happen then? ..... yup another early leaver is going to pop along with the vendor in tow who's going to want their money also, which is yet another different part of the system. This is really not practicable whilst the auction is continuing, plus we'd now be several sheets behind in the update, what are the chances then of somebody wanting to pay and the details are on one of the sheets awaiting input? Very high I'd guess. Far too much aggravation for everyone.
Taking a break half way.
As I said we tried this maybe three times if I remember correctly. Despite the fact we pointed out to everyone that to do so would mean closing the account .... "so only do so if you're leaving" it merely caused a mountain of additional work. We'd obviously been making our announcements in Vietnamese. Also remember that although we're not an auction house we do need to make as many sales as possible. What's in it for us to discourage impulse bidding? Be honest, who amongst us hasn't suddenly thrown a bid at an item we originally had no intention of buying? Would you want to then be told, "No, you can't bid, you're no longer registered" ?
Things are always more complicated than appear, and are done for a reason.
We want an easy enjoyable day, and so do you, the word is "Compromise" if that's not good enough for you, you have options.
One of which of course is run your own auction, JC and I can then have a Sunday off.
BP
However we're still hearing "Whats" and not "Hows"
It is tempting to say "That's the way we run it, if you're not happy don't bother coming" However I do believe 99% of you all are well meaning and offer your suggestions not solely from a "What's in it for me" angle.
So I shall share a few lessons we have learnt the hard way, how many other sales events would do that?
Paying before the auction is finished and leaving with your new toys = Elected Members of Parliament reflect the needs of their constituents.
It's an ideal and very easy to say..
Paying and leaving before the end.
The person inputting onto the laptop needs to be close to the auctioneer because the sheets need to be passed manually. It's too distracting for everybody in the room to have others up there talking. Not acceptable.
The more observant will notice occasions when reference needs to be made back to the auctioneer to clarify something, so sitting anywhere else only causes added work. Plus of course would be a security worry. The system is interrogating several spreadsheets continuously, in order to work out somebody's account the system needs to be closed down and restarted in a different mode, and then restarted back in input mode to continue updating. Guess what's going to happen then? ..... yup another early leaver is going to pop along with the vendor in tow who's going to want their money also, which is yet another different part of the system. This is really not practicable whilst the auction is continuing, plus we'd now be several sheets behind in the update, what are the chances then of somebody wanting to pay and the details are on one of the sheets awaiting input? Very high I'd guess. Far too much aggravation for everyone.
Taking a break half way.
As I said we tried this maybe three times if I remember correctly. Despite the fact we pointed out to everyone that to do so would mean closing the account .... "so only do so if you're leaving" it merely caused a mountain of additional work. We'd obviously been making our announcements in Vietnamese. Also remember that although we're not an auction house we do need to make as many sales as possible. What's in it for us to discourage impulse bidding? Be honest, who amongst us hasn't suddenly thrown a bid at an item we originally had no intention of buying? Would you want to then be told, "No, you can't bid, you're no longer registered" ?
Things are always more complicated than appear, and are done for a reason.
We want an easy enjoyable day, and so do you, the word is "Compromise" if that's not good enough for you, you have options.
One of which of course is run your own auction, JC and I can then have a Sunday off.
BP
-
- Posts: 200
- Joined: Mon Oct 07, 2013 6:36 pm
- Reaction score: 0
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
Hear everything you say...
But it sounds like the computer system needs setting up. If your using Excel (or similar) I don't understand the "having to restart" to view different aspects during the auction?
Most of the main arguments seem to be around the inconvenience of the current way the program is used or set up, but then I'm looking at the software side of things because that's my job, a developer of Microsoft applications.
But it sounds like the computer system needs setting up. If your using Excel (or similar) I don't understand the "having to restart" to view different aspects during the auction?
Most of the main arguments seem to be around the inconvenience of the current way the program is used or set up, but then I'm looking at the software side of things because that's my job, a developer of Microsoft applications.
-
- Site Admin
- Posts: 6650
- Joined: Wed Nov 06, 2002 12:12 am
- Reaction score: 59
- Location: The Black Country
- badpenny
- Forum Moderator
- Posts: 7221
- Joined: Thu May 05, 2005 12:41 pm
- Reaction score: 28
- Location: East Midlands
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
Probably a capital investment in a new laptop plus dedicated software, and another networked laptop to allow different activities to happen while results are inputted, oh and another somebody to be drive that one would do the trick. All for one or two days a year.
Looks like commission is now going up to 15%
In the 1990s when I was working with Derby Chamber of Commerce I was on a team funded by The DTI encouraging small companies to embrace the quality standards of BS 5750 (precursor to ISO 9001) We'd encouraged a family owned business that employed 12 to be the first in The East Midlands to spend 18 months going for accreditation.
Upon successfully passing their final audits The Chamber set up a public presentation with TV and local radio in attendance.
The MD tuned up on his own to receive the certificate, in his acceptance speech he told us all that due to everybody concentrating so hard on the procedures, policies and operating systems for BS 5750 they'd all forgotten that they came to work each day to make and sell Left Handed Metric Hammers. Consequently they'd gone bust, Quality Accreditation achieved ... 15 people out of work.
Looks like commission is now going up to 15%
In the 1990s when I was working with Derby Chamber of Commerce I was on a team funded by The DTI encouraging small companies to embrace the quality standards of BS 5750 (precursor to ISO 9001) We'd encouraged a family owned business that employed 12 to be the first in The East Midlands to spend 18 months going for accreditation.
Upon successfully passing their final audits The Chamber set up a public presentation with TV and local radio in attendance.
The MD tuned up on his own to receive the certificate, in his acceptance speech he told us all that due to everybody concentrating so hard on the procedures, policies and operating systems for BS 5750 they'd all forgotten that they came to work each day to make and sell Left Handed Metric Hammers. Consequently they'd gone bust, Quality Accreditation achieved ... 15 people out of work.
- bryans fan
- Posts: 822
- Joined: Mon Feb 03, 2003 10:15 pm
- Reaction score: 7
- Location: Somerset
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
I have been pondering this topic on a walk to the village to get a paper, and have put on my thinking cap, just as well as its raining!
Jeremy asks for" HOWS" so here goes.
I regard the Event as a chance to meet people and talk. I use the paying in and out queueing time to chat. Before the Auction I am looking at lots, during the auction I concentate on what is being sold, after the auction is the time to chat, or get off home if you can. Name badges is certainly worth considering.
This is a "one off " yearly event mostly, at a hired venue, so the paying in and out of cash suits both vendor and buyer. Where else does this happen? Remember this is an event organised purely voluntarily by the two J`s. This is a minority hobby and I feel always will be.
Unless the vendors choose to be paid by cheque after the auction, I cannot see anything obvious to reduce the queueing.
The area ripe for improvement is in the "marketing" for want of a better word.
The Auction is usually annual, we all have weeks to prepare, so it always annoys me that we get the catalogue a few days before the event. Leaving little time to decide on wether to attend or not.
Jerry has all our email addresses, so I think a block send to all interested parties leading up to the event, would help tremendously, both in getting lots promised and in creating an air of excitement before the event, with tasters of what has been entered. Regular updating of the lots already entered, with pictures where possible in the lead up to the Auction on Jerrys website as well as PennyMachines creates a buzz.
Unlike the rest of the eccentric millionaires who attend, I have to spend a bit of time getting cash in order to bid, so knowing whats been entered, and getting the catalogue earlier would be helpful.
Would it pay to put an advert for the event in the local Coventry newspaper?
It would be such a shame for this event to cease to be.
Jeremy asks for" HOWS" so here goes.
I regard the Event as a chance to meet people and talk. I use the paying in and out queueing time to chat. Before the Auction I am looking at lots, during the auction I concentate on what is being sold, after the auction is the time to chat, or get off home if you can. Name badges is certainly worth considering.
This is a "one off " yearly event mostly, at a hired venue, so the paying in and out of cash suits both vendor and buyer. Where else does this happen? Remember this is an event organised purely voluntarily by the two J`s. This is a minority hobby and I feel always will be.
Unless the vendors choose to be paid by cheque after the auction, I cannot see anything obvious to reduce the queueing.
The area ripe for improvement is in the "marketing" for want of a better word.
The Auction is usually annual, we all have weeks to prepare, so it always annoys me that we get the catalogue a few days before the event. Leaving little time to decide on wether to attend or not.
Jerry has all our email addresses, so I think a block send to all interested parties leading up to the event, would help tremendously, both in getting lots promised and in creating an air of excitement before the event, with tasters of what has been entered. Regular updating of the lots already entered, with pictures where possible in the lead up to the Auction on Jerrys website as well as PennyMachines creates a buzz.
Unlike the rest of the eccentric millionaires who attend, I have to spend a bit of time getting cash in order to bid, so knowing whats been entered, and getting the catalogue earlier would be helpful.
Would it pay to put an advert for the event in the local Coventry newspaper?
It would be such a shame for this event to cease to be.
Last edited by bryans fan on Sat Mar 28, 2015 6:30 pm, edited 1 time in total.
- bryans fan
- Posts: 822
- Joined: Mon Feb 03, 2003 10:15 pm
- Reaction score: 7
- Location: Somerset
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
I was surprised to see how badly the bandit spares did, many remaining unsold. If only there were similar amounts of Bryans spares!pennymachines wrote:Full results with pictures now in the Arena.
-
- Posts: 1130
- Joined: Thu Sep 10, 2009 8:13 pm
- Reaction score: 4
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
https://pennymachines.co.uk/arena/vaa-22-03-2015/
Thanks for that - some interesting pricing.
Thanks for that - some interesting pricing.
- coppinpr
- Posts: 5139
- Joined: Sun Oct 10, 2010 2:01 pm
- Reaction score: 27
- Location: Lewes, East Sussex
- Contact:
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
My final comment on the auction this year.
As I said earlier, there are things that can be done and things that (although would be good) can't, and BP's answer seems to agree with this. The easiest and most likely things to improve would seem to be in advance of the auction (earlier catalogues, better advertising etc.)
As to BP's comment "we are still hearing what's rather than hows", first I don't think that is strictly true, although I do suspect comments tend to be a little tentative because of what's happened in the past. When people make remarks about the auction they tend to
(a) get shouted at (don't say this has never happened - it has, and SOMETIMES with good reason),
(b) get threatened with "OK we won't do it again",
(c) get told why their ideas won't work.
(a) and (c) are sometimes justified, but not always. Often they are used like (b) just to shut down the idea. For example, in past auctions (not the latest) we have been angrily told that there is more than enough work to do already without us asking for more things then when members offer free help they are quickly told help is not wanted(?)
We love the auction and would hate to lose it. Perhaps that is why we like to comment on it so much, but the replies we get are sometimes as as bad as some comments and there is always, and I think others will agree, an underlying feeling that none of our ideas will ever be considered anyway.
If it stays as it is. I'll be happy, but that doesn't mean it couldn't or shouldn't improve.
I know the two "J's" only slightly but hope I can call them friends and that they realise that mine, and all the comments above, are meant in a positive way, because we don't want to lose that auction...ever.
As I said earlier, there are things that can be done and things that (although would be good) can't, and BP's answer seems to agree with this. The easiest and most likely things to improve would seem to be in advance of the auction (earlier catalogues, better advertising etc.)
As to BP's comment "we are still hearing what's rather than hows", first I don't think that is strictly true, although I do suspect comments tend to be a little tentative because of what's happened in the past. When people make remarks about the auction they tend to
(a) get shouted at (don't say this has never happened - it has, and SOMETIMES with good reason),
(b) get threatened with "OK we won't do it again",
(c) get told why their ideas won't work.
(a) and (c) are sometimes justified, but not always. Often they are used like (b) just to shut down the idea. For example, in past auctions (not the latest) we have been angrily told that there is more than enough work to do already without us asking for more things then when members offer free help they are quickly told help is not wanted(?)
We love the auction and would hate to lose it. Perhaps that is why we like to comment on it so much, but the replies we get are sometimes as as bad as some comments and there is always, and I think others will agree, an underlying feeling that none of our ideas will ever be considered anyway.
If it stays as it is. I'll be happy, but that doesn't mean it couldn't or shouldn't improve.
I know the two "J's" only slightly but hope I can call them friends and that they realise that mine, and all the comments above, are meant in a positive way, because we don't want to lose that auction...ever.
-
- Posts: 1130
- Joined: Thu Sep 10, 2009 8:13 pm
- Reaction score: 4
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
I noticed there were a number of passed lots in the results, in the Arena. Can someone confirm - if a lot doesn't sell, is there a charge to the seller? If so, is this a fixed fee or percentage of the reserve, or is there no charge, as I may decide to enter a few machines in the auction later in the year.
Thanks,
GP.
Thanks,
GP.
- badpenny
- Forum Moderator
- Posts: 7221
- Joined: Thu May 05, 2005 12:41 pm
- Reaction score: 28
- Location: East Midlands
Re: Coventry Auction Sunday 22nd March 2015
There is no charge to enter lots.aristomatic wrote:I noticed there were a number of passed lots in the results, in the Arena. Can someone confirm - if a lot doesn't sell, is there a charge to the seller? If so, is this a fixed fee or percentage of the reserve, or is there no charge, as I may decide to enter a few machines in the auction later in the year.
Thanks,
GP.
There is no charge for lots that don't reach reserve.
BP
Who is online
Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 7 guests