I did do some research on a few companies and you're right, at least about Innsbrook (I haven't looked into the QPS). They aren't affected by giftco and I even asked about their prizes and they said that nothing is affected, not items in catalog or prizes. Just do your research.
I've heard that only two fundraising companies aren't affected by Giftco going out of business:
QSP and Innisbrook
Most of the smaller, independent companies will be greatly hurt. Some of the larger companies will be unable to get a number of items in their catalogues. Most of the Prize Charts that fundraising companies use are all giftco items, so they will be rushing to find replacements for their prizes.
As I've read in other parts of this site - just call and ask your representative how the Giftco situation will affect their catalogue and your sale. If you aren't comfortable with the information that you get - you know there are companies that are solid enough to do all their own purchasing and are able to stock exactely what is in their catalogue call one of them.
We have used your company for the past three years, and at this point we are 80% sure we will go with you again. However, why do you not have your brochure or prize flyer on your web site anymore?
In response to your comment about prizes we, at Innisbrook, do not buy from giftco, prizes or product. Our suppliers are listed on our website and we're proud that 83% of our catalog is made in the U.S.A.
It may be true that Innisbrook does not carry any Giftco items in their catalog, but how about their prize program. Giftco was also the main source for prizes. Another thought, I can bet there will be many smaller regional companies saying, "Oh, those are not Giftco items in our catalog", when just the opposite is true. Or worse, that they tell customers that changing out the Giftco items will be no problem, It will be a major problem! For twenty years, nothing has stood in the way of getting a sale. Why should it change now!
I am glad Jeanine Fundraising contacted you upfront to let you know that information. Our Innsbrook rep contacted us as well and let us know that NONE of there products are affected by the giftco thing. We haven't made a decision yet, but I think this might be icing on the cake to go with Innsbrook.
