Klarinet Archive - Posting 001083.txt from 2004/07

From: "R. Williams" <rwilliams@-----.net>
Subj: [kl] Forcing Change was Re: [kl] A Phone call from FIRST ACT
Date: Fri, 30 Jul 2004 08:04:39 -0400

I'm sorry I'm coming to this late, but since I was one of the first people
to contact COSTCO when that issue came up and I reprinted my letter to them
on this list; I thought I'd comment on a strategy to approach
Wal-Mart. You can find my original letter to COSTCO on the archives by
searching with "COSTCO."

Contrary to common perceptions, most companies are fairly sensitive to
consumer complaints, but the issue is the number and nature of complaints
because, to be blunt, the world is full of cranks who do nothing but
complain. I know because as the former VP and GM of a multi-national I've
read the letters.

What needs to be done is a multi-front approach pointed at both local Wall
Marts and the national office. I would suggest that everyone who can,
contact both individually and express your "concerns." I would further
suggest that the issue be kept simple. The theme that seems most
appropriate to this situation is; "you are hurting our children's musical
education by selling these instruments." Then explain why it is harming
the children and doing a disservice to the customer and community. If you
are a music teacher, band director, be sure to use your title and
those letters after your name if you have them.

Step 2 Organize: It would appear to me that this is a perfect issue to be
discussed at Band Boosters. If an organization which represents
100-200-300+ parents presents a letter in person to the local manager, then
"trust me" you will get their attention! Forward a copy to the national
office as well. Address it personally to the President and or CEO.

Now, if Wall Mart fails to respond or blows you off, now it is time to get
a bit more pointed. Take your case to the media. Letters to the editor,
contact a reporter etc. A good approach is always; "we can't understand
how a company that claims family values would continue to hurt a child's
musical education!"

Organize Nationally: With the Internet, it is just too easy to organize to
not do so. If it comes to it I'll even donate the web space! Get on
lists, contact different organizations and make it easy for people to take
action!

Here is where to send the letters.

H. Lee Scott, Jr.
President and Chief Executive Officer
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
702 S.W. 8th Street
Bentonville, AR 72716

1-800-WALMART

Best
R. Williams

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