The RAM Screwing Authorised Dealers
I know RAM dealers get bad press here, and sometimes it's well deserved. But the RAM is doing their "partners" no favours with the ballot. Ballot results are announced 24 hours BEFORE authorised dealers are able to sell new releases. This is OK for in demand releases but for (frankly shit) releases like today's Australia 2026 20c 1941: Service Amid Strife Uncirculated 3 Coin Set ($50) it is a real problem. Why? Because the limited market for such a poor release has got what they want from the ballot and authorised dealers are left holding unwanted stock. And there's no returning it, ADs own the stock once it's received.
When you couple this with diminished wholesale distributions (meaning AD's get less stock) the RAM is clearly heading to a 100% self distribution approach. Which in, some regards is fine because the ballot is clearly the most equitable method of distributing in-demand products. However, it's a kick in the teeth for the remaining AD's with bricks and mortar stores who have built up a local following of customers who like to buy over the counter.
What do you think?