Steiner launches academy for sales reps - Industry News

Shooting Industry, Nov, 2003

Steiner Optics has launched the "Steiner Academy" to better prepare sales representatives in servicing its network of independent retailers. The training program is a primer on optics technology, along with a detailed look at Steiner product development.

Steiner is a specialist in the manufacture and development of binoculars, and produces only binoculars for various applications ranging from birding to hunting and marine to military.

"Because of our specialization in this field, we think it's important to show our sales team and our customers what we do and how we do it--exactly how a Steiner binocular goes from an initial concept to a completed product," said Sven Harms, Steiner's U.S. vice president of sales and marketing, who developed the academy along with Michael Guerra, Steiner's North American training manager.

The two-day Steiner Academy offers a day of instruction as well as field tests comparing Steiner binoculars to those of other manufacturers. The program also includes a virtual-factory tour that details the entire production process, from raw materials to glass production, assembly and testing, as well as a complete review of optics terminology, technology and the latest details about the entire Steiner line.

"By providing our sales representatives with a comprehensive overview of our product design, we're helping them bring the most essential information to retailers," said Harms. "We will hold the academy annually so our sales representatives are among the most informed in the industry."

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Steiner held an awards dinner during this year's program to recognize the company's top U.S. sales representatives.

Awards were presented to John Goplin, Sokol Associates--Representative of the Year; and Tony Dupre, Mid-South Sports Sales--Rookie of the Year.

Awards for outstanding sales and service were also presented to Frank Brady, of FX Marketing; Darrell Toliver, of Sokol Associates; Tim Conroy, of Commar Sales; and Steve Ickowicz, of SI Sales.

For more information, contact Pioneer Research at 1-800-257-7742, or visit Steiner Website: www.steiner-binoculars.com.