So I had a conversation with the folks at a major consumer kitchen appliance company recently. I wanted to talk to them about selling small appliances online. The idea was to open a series of small niche product sites.

They refused. But not just me, they told me they’re not accepting any more ecommerce companies into the mix, from anyone. That surprised me and I asked why. The conversation went something like this:

Me: “Wow, so you’re not accepting new companies to sell online?”

Them: “No, the retailers don’t like it.”

Me: “Hmmm… interesting. I think I can understand. So what about major players like Amazon.com?”

Them: “Well, we make exceptions.”

Exceptions when a lot of dough is involved, I guess. I knew that retailers didn’t like ecommerce because they can’t compete on the same scale, but I had no idea that the manufacturers would start getting involved. Retailers will do almost anything to keep their retailers happy.

I’m guessing that this might become a trend. Anyone care to comment or have a similar experience?