We are writing to inform you that Circle D Specialties has recently adopted a unilateral Minimum Advertised Pricing (MAP) policy for all Circle D Specialties branded products. This decision has been made to preserve the premium reputation of our transmission and off-road equipment, which are renowned for their performance and quality. We have invested substantial resources in product development and marketing to build and maintain this reputation, and to foster goodwill toward the Circle D Specialties brand.
The MAP policy is designed to prevent price-based advertising that could undermine or degrade the image of our products in the marketplace, thereby preserving the value and reputation of our brand.
As an Authorized Distributor of Circle D Specialties, you are required to comply with this policy. This policy stipulates that Circle D Specialties trademarks and intellectual property—including the Circle D Specialties name, trademarks, logos, images, part numbers, descriptions, advertising copy, drawings, specifications, test results, instructions, vehicle application data, and other marketing information—may only be used as outlined in this policy.
Under the MAP policy, any consumer or public advertisement of Circle D Specialties branded products must not result in a net price below the established MAP price (LIST PRICE) for each part number. These MAP prices are communicated via pricing data notifications and are available to both direct customers and authorized distributors. The net price is defined as the price after any advertised discounts. Free shipping or installation may be included at the MAP price.
This policy applies to all forms of public or consumer advertising, including but not limited to television, radio, print, catalogs, letters, coupons, internet advertising, email solicitations, websites, and online auctions. Advertisements must not suggest that a lower price than the MAP is available. Violations include displaying a lowest price with a strikethrough or obliteration or indicating that a lower price is obtainable. For internet advertisements or auctions, the price shown must be at or above MAP unless the consumer cannot click through to see the actual price.
In the event of a policy violation, Circle D Specialties will issue a notice of violation to the distributor. If corrective action is not taken within the stipulated time, we will suspend the distributor's account and restrict purchasing rights until further notice.
It is the responsibility of each distributor to monitor price changes and review all advertisements to ensure compliance with this policy.
As an Authorized Distributor, you are also expected to promote Circle D Specialties products effectively, respond promptly to customer requests, represent our products positively and professionally, and adhere to all Circle D Specialties policies. We reserve the right to revoke Authorized Distributor status or discontinue sales to any distributor at our discretion, should we determine it is in the best interest of our company.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter. Should you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us.