Hello, I am an associate in the R&D section of Summit Racing. I can clarify that we don't outsource our associates. I can confirm we have four very large brick and mortar locations full of enthusiasts who have dedicated their careers to serving racers.
In addition to R&D, much of my job entails tutorials, how-to's and new product announcements. I work with many forums and their members to problem-solve....and here I am! :)
2020 was pretty brutal on all of us. We at Summit have always prided ourselves on carrying the most inventory and continue to do so. Our many suppliers have been working to come back from component shortages needed to make their products. They are bringing their workforces back to the factory floors as quickly as their state legislatures will let them. Summit has placed many large orders with these folks which not only serves our customers - it also serves as a life-line to these factories.
Material costs have gone up, no surprise there. We absorbed a lot of the tariffs have passed on to us over the last few years and will continue to do so.
As for pricing, we adhere to the manufacturer's MAP pricing which they've deemed the minimum required to service the sale. We continue with free freight, price matching and sales whenever they are possible. It's true our advertised prices may not be the lowest every time - but in the vast majority of cases they are. We appreciate our customers who give us the opportunity to price match. We will make it worth their while with the best service after the sale and our handshake guarantee return policy.
At any rate, we appreciate your feedback and support. I'll continue to monitor this thread and I'll do my best to get you answers and get you in touch with the appropriate folks within our company to solve problems.
Thanks, Brian Nutter
