Quoted from TimeBandit:"for profit" Mod makers..
We make a profit? It will be years before I get my R&D back.
Bottom
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Hence my "for profit" qualifier....
Mike, you, and several people on here do it for the community and love of Pinball....Pushing the envelope to better the game. Not even a break even scenario.If you make a buck doing it, you'll be lucky (but really hope you can). Our hobby thrives w people like you, on the innovation front.
There are many others that are "for profit" however, and while passion decided their path, the goal is to turn a profit.Absolutely understand this model and support it.
The point:
Manufacturers have BOM, R&D, etc. and target a "x" percentage net profit to remain solvent, based on # of machines sold, warranty, etc.
Operators have to buy, route the machines, also targeting "x".
" For profit" Modders would also use this approach to remain fiscally solvent. Some make it, some don't...Just like the Manufacturers.
Just wanted to see some dialogue in this area, as while the volume of net cash may be lower, I'd be willing to bet the markup on some of this stuff is staggering, and going up, just like the machines...
I still think personally Ops are on the bottom. Who gets best return on investment ( most $$ in pocket for least spent)....That's the discussion.
Ultimately, I would want everyone to make money (Lloyd's point). I just don't think the manufacturer's are the only one benefiting from price hikes.