lnstant d-i'y lines sell big

G OCIETY is looking for instant tJ gratification, according to the behavioral scientists. and manufacturers of outdoor amenities are working hard to pleasethem.

Instant decks, gazebos, lattice panels, outdoor furniture, children's play equipment, planters, fences, posts and trash can corrals are among the basic items coming in a box or bag. The ready-to-assemble components, packaged for easy handling, are good d-i-y products. Some of the box kits are complete down to the screws and drill bits needed for assembly.

Convenience comes in two forms. Some products are packaged as kits. Others come as single components to allow the homeowner to pick and choose and assemble as he wishes. Either way, the products are aimed at making the do-it-yourselfer's job easier. Minutes instead of hours or hours instead of days are the norm for putting together projects using either a kit or pre-manufactured parts.

l'-or example, a western cedar gazebo in a choice of 10 ft. or 12 ft. diameter comes in a neat, knockdown packaged kit, easy to handle, stock and display. F-ully pre-cut, it can be assembled by two d-i-yers in less than half a day. A pre-fabricated pressure treated southern pine deck put together with already assembled slat panels is equally fast. These panels also can be used for steps, benches and spa surrounds.

Many dealers have set up a system to utilize their own employees to cut and assemble materials for decks and other outdoor projects. They package these inhouse manufactured kits with plans in various sizes and configurations and materials. The additional amount they are able to charge for the preparation makes it more profitable for them. The buyer who finds it a convenience and timesaver is willing to payextra.

Story at a Glance

How dealers are getting lnvolved in a number of various products in the exploding outside market... some examples and howthey can tie in with merchandising and marketing plans.

Dealers find it easy to erect a sample display showing just what the assembled product will look like. A look, touch, tryout model attracts lots of attention and sales, according to dealers.

Dealers interested in merchandising packaged kits and components can investigate those offered by Universal Forest Products. T. R. Miller. Nulines, Inc., Liberty Lumber Co. and Weyerhaeuser, among others. Dealers interested in making their own kits can obtain plans from the various associations or plan books to use as patterns.