Sales job: Businessland founder struggles to pull firm out of a deep slide; PC retailer David Norman is up against nimble rivals in a low-margin industry; missteps by pioneering chain

Article Abstract:

Businessland CEO David A. Norman is faced with bringing the largest computer retailer in the U.S. out of a financial nose-dive. Businessland faces tough financial times in Mar 1991 after reporting five consecutive quarters of losses and sagging sales. Businessland stock has declined from about $11.50 per share in Mar 1990 to $2.75 on Mar 15, 1991. The large retailer is having problems typical of the computer retailing industry, where profit margins are shrinking and retailers are forced to create rapid turnover and trim overhead costs. Norman is cutting costs and streamlining operations, but critics say the emergency measures come too late. Norman has offended some of his suppliers, including Compaq and Apple, and some industry observers believe he has lost his credibility. The company's history is detailed.

Computers, peripherals & software, Management, Business planning, Computer stores, Company Profile, Retailing, Vendor Relations, Financial Stability, Businessland Inc., BLI, Norman, David A.

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Seagate Technology to unveil products in bid to renew disk-drive lines' shine

Article Abstract:

Seagate Technology Inc plans to deliver a new line of hard disk drives that will help it regain some of the market share it lost in the late 1980s. Analysts say that Seagate waited too long to employ emerging technologies such as 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch hard disk drives. Most microcomputer makers prefer smaller drives because they keep costs down by taking up less room and using less power. Industry observers note that Seagate must be able to deliver the smaller drives if it is to catch up with rivals Conner Peripherals Inc and Quantum Corp. Seagate is also expected to introduce high-end drives for mainframe computers and minicomputers, including a 1.6Gbyte 5.25-inch drive.

Computer storage devices, Product development, Disk drives, Hard disk drives, Computer storage device industry, Strategic Planning, Hard Disk Drive, Seagate Technology L.L.C., SGAT

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