Nakamichi appointed as National Sales Manager industry veteran Robin McNeal, a former manager at Clarion, PowerBass and most recently, Retro Manufacturing.
Nakamichi is distributed by Diplomat Trading, Doral, FL, which announced the return of the brand to the US market in July. It was once one of the most admired suppliers in car audio.
McNeal said, “We feel we have a strong line up that is positioned to go head-to-head with the other Japanese brands. The head unit offering will be simple and focused without overlapping models/features.”
As for distribution, the company’s focus is on dealers, with limited two-step distribution and limited Internet sales. It will follow a Minimum Advertised Price policy. “Our intentions are to keep it clean–we are fortunate to be in a position where the factory is not pushing us for huge numbers which is what ultimately leads to price erosion,” said McNeal.
His first task will be to assemble a manufacturer’s rep force.
The brand currently offers 7 head units in the US. “I don’t see a need for 10 single DIN CD receivers,”said McNeal.
Nakamichi marine product will be on display at CES.
“Over the next several months you will see some interesting and unique products from us,” McNeal said. He claims the brand has been popular around the globe and the time was right to bring it to the US.
The NA3605 is the brand’s flagship multimedia model featuring a 6.8-inch capacitive touch screen with a 1080p wide viewing angle LCD with enhanced smart phone connectivity that supports Apple CarPlay and wireless connectivity for Android Auto at an MSRP of $469.95.
Nakamichi car audio will be on display at the SEMA Show November 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center booth #11632 (North Hall).
For additional information visit www.nakamichicaraudio.com or contact Robin McNeal directly at [email protected]
Nakamichi has a great brand image and if the product Lineup is good Robin has what is needed to do a successful launch. Robin has both the education and experience with the retail market as well as a good working relationship with the retailers to do a great job. Congrats to You Robin.
Nice move Robin! We all know that it takes great product, great marketing and great relationships to kickstart a relaunch a brand that was held in high esteem. They have the right man for the job with the knowledge and drive it takes!
Love to hear that you’re going to do a great job for Nakamichi I have known you for a long time and you dedicate yourself to a company. Keep up the great work Rob
Great to hear you are back in the 12V groove! Look forward to seeing you at SEMA and CES.
John Pavlik,
Electronic Outlet, Lansing, MI
It is so unfortunate Nakamichi did not take the high road. With Hi-Res on the incline, I believe they would have had a great position in the independent retail chain because there are still quite a lot of consumers that see Nak as a high end brand. But the price point on Amazon does not demonstrate high end. Congrats to Robin and good selling, I’m sure there’s still room for plenty of sells.
Excellent point Mike. Agree 100%.
Congrats Robin!!!! Great to hear!