The general purpose of the study was to determine, analyze, and evaluate the basic nature of the distribution processes involved in the marketing of antique furniture in Dallas, Texas. The study utilizes the marketing mix components as a framework for understanding the nature of the industry. Various aspects of the channels of distribution and physical distribution, the products themselves, pricing mechanisms, and the promotion methods, as well as the market itself and distribution problems, were examined. The primary data were gathered from 29 retail antiques dealers in the Dallas metropolitan area.
Three subject areas and pertinent components of each were utilized to gain a better understanding of the antiques industry in Dallas. The subject areas of (1) the composition of the industry, (2) the demographic characteristics of the market, and (3) the marketing mix elements served as the bases for data collection and presentation of the study findings.
A review of the pertinent literature concerning various marketing facets of antique furniture is presented in Chapter II. Chapter III contains an explanation of the research methodology and the presentation and analysis of the first three parts of primary data. Chapter IV is a continuation of the data presentation and analyses, and it focuses on information pertaining to the four marketing mix elements as managed by the Dallas retailers. Chapter V consists of a summary of the study, 27 conclusions from the analyzed data, and 15 recommendations for the industry members.