Q: I have a newly patented floor tile topped with carpet, turf, or cork. I want to sell it to Home Depot and other DIY companies, but the Home Depot on-line submittal got me an automated rejection, and there seems to be code for preferred suppliers. How do I get through?
A: Trying to break through the barrier created by an online application process can be exasperating, but we’ll help you gain some insight into what’s going on behind the scenes.
Jerry Shields, a spokesperson for Home Depot, says that when a supplier is rejected by the company’s online supply center, a buyer will send him an explanation of what they’re looking for and why the supplier didn’t meet the it. The code, he adds, is for Home Depot merchants, not suppliers.
Shields suggests that you sign up to attend Home Depot’s next Open to Buy Day (July 15 and 16) in Atlanta, where you can bring samples of your floor tile for the company’s consideration.
It may be better to use a middleman. Companies like Home Depot and Lowe’s prefer to deal directly with marketing consultants, rather than inventors, because they can speak their language.
Photo by Home Depot.
Overcoming Rejection
January 22, 2008 by Rich | 1 Comment
In Innovation, Invention, Patents
Brian Tindall on January 22nd, 2008 at 7:43 am
If you are looking for a consultant, try making contact through a current flooring supplier or ISS group. Also consider a marketing agreement with a current supplier. Many of which would rather work with you than against you.