Tools commonly used in the Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) industry for day-to-day tasks and operations.

• Payphone coin box
• Payphone card reader
• Payphone handset
• Payphone keypad
• Payphone booth
• Payphone signage
• Payphone power supply
• Payphone circuit board
• Payphone coin validator
• Payphone card dispenser

Common products and services typical of NAICS Code 423690-49, illustrating the main business activities and contributions to the market.

• Coin-operated payphones
• Card-operated payphones
• Payphone parts and accessories
• Payphone maintenance and repair equipment
• Payphone installation equipment

The specific certifications, permits, licenses, and regulatory compliance requirements within the United States for this industry.

• Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Certification: This certification is required for all electronic devices that emit radio frequency energy. The FCC regulates the use of radio frequency devices in the US and requires certification for all devices that emit radio frequency energy. The certification ensures that the device meets the FCC's technical standards and is safe to use.
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Certification: This certification is required for businesses that deal with hazardous materials or dangerous equipment. The certification ensures that the business is following OSHA's safety regulations and is providing a safe working environment for its employees.
• National Institute for Certification In Engineering Technologies (NICET) Certification: This certification is required for technicians who work with electronic equipment. The certification ensures that the technician has the necessary skills and knowledge to work with electronic equipment safely and effectively.
• International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Certification: This certification is required for electronic devices that are sold internationally. The certification ensures that the device meets international safety and technical standards.
• Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Certification: This certification is required for electronic devices that are sold in the US. The certification ensures that the device meets UL's safety standards and is safe to use.

A concise historical narrative of NAICS Code 423690-49 covering global milestones and recent developments within the United States.

• The Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) industry has a long history dating back to the early 1900s when the first coin-operated telephones were introduced. These early machines were simple and required a coin to be inserted to make a call. Over time, advancements were made, and the machines became more sophisticated, with the introduction of card-operated telephones in the 1980s. These machines allowed users to make calls using a prepaid card, which was more convenient than carrying coins. In recent years, the industry has seen a decline in demand due to the widespread use of mobile phones. However, the industry has adapted by offering new services such as charging stations for mobile phones and other electronic devices. In the United States, the Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) industry has a similar history to the global industry. The first coin-operated telephones were introduced in the early 1900s, and the machines became more sophisticated over time. In the 1980s, card-operated telephones were introduced, and the industry saw significant growth. However, with the widespread use of mobile phones, the industry has seen a decline in demand. Despite this, the industry has adapted by offering new services such as charging stations for mobile phones and other electronic devices.

The anticipated future trajectory of the NAICS 423690-49 industry in the USA, offering insights into potential trends, innovations, and challenges expected to shape its landscape.

• Growth Prediction: Shrinking

  The industry "Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale)" is expected to experience a decline in revenue in the coming years due to the increasing use of mobile phones and the decreasing demand for payphones. However, the industry is expected to remain relevant in certain areas such as prisons, hospitals, and other public places where payphones are still in use. The industry is also expected to adapt to new technologies and offer new services such as charging stations for mobile phones and other electronic devices. Overall, the industry is expected to face challenges but also opportunities for growth and innovation in the coming years.

Recent groundbreaking advancements and milestones in the Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) industry, reflecting notable innovations that have reshaped its landscape.

• Smart Payphones: Payphones equipped with touchscreens, Wi-Fi, and other features that allow users to access the internet, make video calls, and use other services.
• Mobile Charging Stations: Payphones that also function as charging stations for mobile phones and other electronic devices.
• Cashless Payment Options: Payphones that accept credit cards, mobile payments, and other cashless payment options.
• Remote Monitoring and Management: Payphones that can be remotely monitored and managed to ensure their proper functioning and maintenance.
• Integration with Other Services: Payphones that are integrated with other services such as public transportation, emergency services, and advertising.

This section provides an extensive list of essential materials, equipment and services that are integral to the daily operations and success of the Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) industry. It highlights the primary inputs that Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) professionals rely on to perform their core tasks effectively, offering a valuable resource for understanding the critical components that drive industry activities.

Equipment

Card Readers: Devices that read payment cards, allowing users to pay for calls, which enhances the functionality of payphones.

Coin Boxes: Devices that securely collect coins from payphones, essential for revenue generation and ensuring the machines function properly.

Communication Modules: Devices that facilitate the connection of payphones to telecommunication networks, essential for enabling calls.

Data Collection Devices: Tools that gather usage statistics from payphones, helping businesses analyze performance and optimize operations.

Maintenance Tools: Specialized tools used for the repair and upkeep of payphones, ensuring they remain operational and meet customer needs.

Payphones: These are public telephones that accept coins or cards for operation, crucial for providing communication services in various locations.

Power Supply Units: Essential components that provide the necessary electrical power to payphones and related equipment, ensuring their reliable operation.

Security Locks: Locks designed to secure payphones against theft and vandalism, crucial for protecting the investment in these machines.

Material

Cleaning Supplies: Products used to maintain the cleanliness and functionality of payphones, which is important for user satisfaction and machine longevity.

Protective Covers: Durable covers that shield payphones from environmental elements, extending their lifespan and maintaining functionality.

Replacement Parts: Includes various components such as switches, wiring, and casings that are necessary for repairing and maintaining payphones.

User Instructional Signage: Signs that provide users with instructions on how to operate payphones, enhancing user experience and reducing confusion.

Service

Installation Services: Professional services that ensure payphones are installed correctly and in compliance with regulations, facilitating their proper use.

Logistics and Distribution Services: Services that manage the transportation and delivery of payphones and related equipment to various locations, ensuring timely availability.

Technical Support Services: Services that provide troubleshooting and repair assistance for payphones, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal performance.

Explore a detailed compilation of the unique products and services offered by the Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) industry. This section provides precise examples of how each item is utilized, showcasing the diverse capabilities and contributions of the Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) to its clients and markets. This section provides an extensive list of essential materials, equipment and services that are integral to the daily operations and success of the Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) industry. It highlights the primary inputs that Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) professionals rely on to perform their core tasks effectively, offering a valuable resource for understanding the critical components that drive industry activities.

Equipment

Card Activation Systems: Systems that manage the activation and deactivation of prepaid calling cards, these are essential for ensuring that users can access services without issues related to card validity.

Card Readers: These devices enable the use of prepaid cards for making calls, offering a convenient alternative to coins and expanding payment options for users, particularly in areas where coins may not be readily available.

Coin Boxes: Designed to securely collect coins from payphones, these boxes are crucial for the operation of coin-operated telephones, allowing for easy collection and maintenance while preventing theft.

Coin Mechanisms: These mechanisms are responsible for accepting and processing coins in payphones, playing a critical role in the functionality of coin-operated telephones by ensuring accurate transactions.

Digital Payphone Systems: Modern payphones equipped with digital technology that allows for enhanced features such as touchscreen interfaces and additional services, catering to the evolving needs of users.

Maintenance Tools: Specialized tools used for the upkeep and repair of coin and card-operated telephones, these tools are vital for technicians to ensure that the equipment operates efficiently and meets user needs.

Payment Processing Systems: These systems facilitate the processing of payments made via coins or cards, ensuring secure and efficient transactions for users of payphones.

Payphone Parts: This category includes various components such as receivers, keypads, and housing units, which are essential for the maintenance and repair of payphones, ensuring they remain functional and reliable for users.

Payphones: These public telephones accept coins or cards for calls, providing essential communication services in various locations such as streets, airports, and train stations, ensuring accessibility for users without personal mobile devices.

Power Supply Units: These units provide the necessary power for payphones to operate, ensuring that they function correctly and are available for user calls.

Prepaid Calling Cards: These cards allow users to make calls from payphones without needing coins, providing a convenient payment method that enhances user experience and accessibility.

Security Locks for Payphones: These locks are designed to secure payphones against vandalism and theft, ensuring that the equipment remains safe and operational for public use.

Signage for Payphones: Informational and directional signs that guide users to the nearest payphones, these signs are important for enhancing visibility and accessibility, especially in urban areas.

Telecommunication Cables: Cables that connect payphones to the telecommunication network, essential for ensuring reliable communication services and maintaining connectivity.

User Interface Panels: Panels that provide users with instructions and options for making calls, enhancing the overall user experience by making the process straightforward and intuitive.

Weatherproof Enclosures: These enclosures protect payphones from environmental elements, ensuring durability and functionality in various weather conditions, which is essential for outdoor installations.

Service

Consultation Services for Payphone Placement: Advisory services that help businesses and municipalities determine optimal locations for payphone installation, ensuring maximum visibility and usage based on traffic patterns.

Field Support Services: On-site support services that assist in the maintenance and troubleshooting of payphones, ensuring they are operational and addressing any issues that may arise promptly.

Installation Services for Payphones: Professional installation services for setting up payphones in various locations, ensuring they are properly connected to communication networks and comply with local regulations.

Repair Services for Payphones: This service includes troubleshooting and fixing issues with payphones, ensuring they remain operational and accessible to users, which is crucial for maintaining public communication infrastructure.

A thorough examination of the Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) industry’s external dynamics, focusing on the political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental factors that shape its operations and strategic direction.

Political Factors

Economic Factors

Social Factors

Technological Factors

Legal Factors

Economical Factors

An in-depth look at the Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) industry's value chain, highlighting its role, key activities, and efficiency strategies, along with its unique value drivers and competitive strengths.

Value Chain Position

Category: Distributor
Value Stage: Intermediate
Description: This industry operates as a distributor within the value chain, focusing on the wholesale distribution of electronic parts and equipment used in coin and card-operated telephones. The industry plays a crucial role in connecting manufacturers of these devices with various end-users, ensuring that the necessary equipment is readily available for maintenance and installation.

Upstream Industries

Downstream Industries

Primary Activities

Inbound Logistics: Inbound logistics involve the careful receiving and handling of electronic components and materials from suppliers. Distributors implement inventory management systems to track stock levels and ensure timely replenishment. Quality control measures include inspecting incoming goods for compliance with specifications, addressing challenges such as supply chain disruptions through diversified sourcing strategies.

Operations: Core operations include the assembly and configuration of telecommunication devices, ensuring that all components function correctly. Quality management practices involve rigorous testing of equipment before distribution, adhering to industry standards to maintain reliability. Standard procedures include maintaining detailed records of inventory and sales to optimize operational efficiency.

Outbound Logistics: Outbound logistics encompass the distribution of finished products to various customers, utilizing efficient transportation methods to ensure timely delivery. Quality preservation during delivery is achieved through careful packaging and handling practices, minimizing the risk of damage during transit. Common practices include establishing partnerships with reliable logistics providers to enhance delivery performance.

Marketing & Sales: Marketing strategies often involve targeted outreach to telecommunications companies and institutional buyers, emphasizing the reliability and quality of the products. Customer relationship management practices focus on building long-term partnerships through consistent communication and support. Sales processes typically include personalized consultations to understand customer needs and provide tailored solutions.

Support Activities

Infrastructure: The organizational infrastructure includes management systems that facilitate inventory tracking, order processing, and customer relationship management. Common structures involve dedicated teams for sales, logistics, and customer support, ensuring efficient operations. Planning systems are essential for forecasting demand and managing stock levels effectively.

Human Resource Management: Workforce requirements include skilled personnel for sales and technical support, with training programs focused on product knowledge and customer service excellence. Development approaches may involve ongoing training to keep staff updated on industry trends and technological advancements, ensuring a knowledgeable workforce.

Technology Development: Key technologies include inventory management software and customer relationship management systems that streamline operations and enhance customer interactions. Innovation practices focus on adopting new technologies to improve distribution efficiency and product offerings, ensuring competitiveness in the market. Industry-standard systems often involve data analytics for optimizing inventory and sales strategies.

Procurement: Sourcing strategies involve establishing strong relationships with reliable suppliers for electronic components and materials. Supplier relationship management is crucial for ensuring consistent quality and timely delivery, while purchasing practices emphasize cost-effectiveness and sustainability.

Value Chain Efficiency

Process Efficiency: Operational effectiveness is measured through metrics such as order fulfillment rates and inventory turnover. Common efficiency measures include tracking delivery times and customer satisfaction levels to identify areas for improvement. Industry benchmarks are established based on performance metrics from leading distributors in the telecommunications sector.

Integration Efficiency: Coordination methods involve regular communication between sales, logistics, and procurement teams to ensure alignment on inventory levels and customer needs. Communication systems often include integrated software platforms that facilitate real-time updates and collaboration across departments, enhancing overall efficiency.

Resource Utilization: Resource management practices focus on optimizing inventory levels to reduce holding costs while ensuring product availability. Optimization approaches may involve implementing just-in-time inventory systems to align stock levels with demand, adhering to industry standards for efficient resource use.

Value Chain Summary

Key Value Drivers: Primary sources of value creation include strong supplier relationships, efficient logistics operations, and a deep understanding of customer needs. Critical success factors involve maintaining high-quality standards and responsiveness to market changes, ensuring competitiveness in the wholesale distribution landscape.

Competitive Position: Sources of competitive advantage include the ability to provide a diverse range of high-quality telecommunication equipment and exceptional customer service. Industry positioning is influenced by the distributor's reputation for reliability and the strength of its supplier relationships, impacting market dynamics.

Challenges & Opportunities: Current industry challenges include navigating supply chain disruptions and maintaining competitive pricing in a fluctuating market. Future trends may involve increased demand for advanced telecommunication solutions, presenting opportunities for distributors to expand their product offerings and enhance service capabilities.

A focused SWOT analysis that examines the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing the Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) industry within the US market. This section provides insights into current conditions, strategic interactions, and future growth potential.

Strengths

Industry Infrastructure and Resources: The industry benefits from a robust infrastructure that includes specialized warehouses and distribution centers tailored for electronic parts and equipment. This strong infrastructure facilitates efficient logistics and timely delivery to clients, ensuring that businesses can maintain operational continuity and meet customer demands effectively.

Technological Capabilities: The industry possesses significant technological advantages, including proprietary systems for inventory management and distribution. Companies often hold patents for innovative components that enhance the functionality of coin and card-operated devices, which supports competitive differentiation and market leadership.

Market Position: The industry maintains a strong market position within the broader electronic parts distribution sector, characterized by a stable customer base that includes telecommunications providers and service operators. Brand recognition and established relationships with key clients contribute to its competitive strength, although emerging technologies present ongoing challenges.

Financial Health: Financial performance across the industry is generally strong, with many firms reporting consistent revenue growth driven by ongoing demand for maintenance and replacement parts. The financial health is supported by stable profit margins, although fluctuations in raw material costs can pose risks to profitability.

Supply Chain Advantages: The industry enjoys well-established supply chain networks that facilitate efficient procurement and distribution of electronic components. Strong partnerships with manufacturers and logistics providers enhance operational efficiency, allowing for timely delivery and reduced costs, which is critical in a competitive marketplace.

Workforce Expertise: The labor force in this industry is skilled and knowledgeable, with many employees having specialized training in electronics and telecommunications. This expertise contributes to high standards of service and operational efficiency, although there is a continuous need for training to keep pace with technological advancements.

Weaknesses

Structural Inefficiencies: Some companies face structural inefficiencies due to outdated inventory management systems or inadequate logistics frameworks, leading to increased operational costs. These inefficiencies can hinder competitiveness, particularly when compared to more agile competitors who have modernized their operations.

Cost Structures: The industry grapples with rising costs associated with sourcing electronic components and compliance with regulatory standards. These cost pressures can squeeze profit margins, necessitating careful management of pricing strategies and operational efficiencies to maintain competitiveness.

Technology Gaps: While some companies are technologically advanced, others lag in adopting new distribution technologies. This gap can result in lower productivity and higher operational costs, impacting overall competitiveness in the market and limiting the ability to respond to customer needs swiftly.

Resource Limitations: The industry is vulnerable to fluctuations in the availability of electronic components, particularly due to global supply chain disruptions. These resource limitations can disrupt production schedules and impact the ability to fulfill customer orders in a timely manner.

Regulatory Compliance Issues: Navigating the complex landscape of telecommunications regulations poses challenges for many companies. Compliance costs can be significant, and failure to meet regulatory standards can lead to penalties and reputational damage, impacting overall business viability.

Market Access Barriers: Entering new markets can be challenging due to established competition and regulatory hurdles. Companies may face difficulties in gaining distribution agreements or meeting local regulatory requirements, limiting growth opportunities and market expansion.

Opportunities

Market Growth Potential: There is significant potential for market growth driven by increasing demand for coin and card-operated devices in public spaces and transportation systems. The trend towards modernization of these systems presents opportunities for companies to expand their offerings and capture new market segments.

Emerging Technologies: Advancements in payment technologies, such as mobile payment systems and contactless transactions, offer opportunities for the industry to innovate and enhance product offerings. Companies that adapt to these technologies can improve customer satisfaction and expand their market reach.

Economic Trends: Favorable economic conditions, including increased consumer spending and urbanization, support growth in the demand for public telecommunication services. As cities expand and modernize, the need for reliable coin and card-operated devices is expected to rise.

Regulatory Changes: Potential regulatory changes aimed at promoting digital payment solutions could benefit the industry. Companies that adapt to these changes by integrating new technologies may gain a competitive edge and enhance their service offerings.

Consumer Behavior Shifts: Shifts in consumer preferences towards cashless transactions create opportunities for growth. Companies that align their product offerings with these trends can attract a broader customer base and enhance brand loyalty by providing modern payment solutions.

Threats

Competitive Pressures: Intense competition from both domestic and international players poses a significant threat to market share. Companies must continuously innovate and differentiate their products to maintain a competitive edge in a crowded marketplace, where new entrants may disrupt established players.

Economic Uncertainties: Economic fluctuations, including inflation and changes in consumer spending habits, can impact demand for coin and card-operated devices. Companies must remain agile to adapt to these uncertainties and mitigate potential impacts on sales.

Regulatory Challenges: The potential for stricter regulations regarding telecommunications and electronic payments can pose challenges for the industry. Companies must invest in compliance measures to avoid penalties and ensure product safety, which can strain financial resources.

Technological Disruption: Emerging technologies in alternative payment systems and communication methods could disrupt the market for traditional coin and card-operated devices. Companies need to monitor these trends closely and innovate to stay relevant in a rapidly changing environment.

Environmental Concerns: Increasing scrutiny on environmental sustainability practices poses challenges for the industry. Companies must adopt sustainable practices to meet consumer expectations and regulatory requirements, which may require significant investment.

SWOT Summary

Strategic Position: The industry currently enjoys a strong market position, bolstered by ongoing demand for coin and card-operated devices in various sectors. However, challenges such as rising costs and competitive pressures necessitate strategic innovation and adaptation to maintain growth. The future trajectory appears promising, with opportunities for expansion into new markets and product lines, provided that companies can navigate the complexities of regulatory compliance and supply chain management.

Key Interactions

Growth Potential: The growth prospects for the industry are robust, driven by increasing demand for modernized coin and card-operated devices. Key growth drivers include advancements in payment technologies, urbanization, and favorable economic conditions. Market expansion opportunities exist in both domestic and international markets, particularly as public spaces seek to enhance their telecommunications infrastructure. However, challenges such as resource limitations and regulatory compliance must be addressed to fully realize this potential. The timeline for growth realization is projected over the next five to ten years, contingent on successful adaptation to market trends and consumer preferences.

Risk Assessment: The overall risk level for the industry is moderate, with key risk factors including economic uncertainties, competitive pressures, and supply chain vulnerabilities. Industry players must be vigilant in monitoring external threats, such as changes in consumer behavior and regulatory landscapes. Effective risk management strategies, including diversification of suppliers and investment in technology, can mitigate potential impacts. Long-term risk management approaches should focus on sustainability and adaptability to changing market conditions. The timeline for risk evolution is ongoing, necessitating proactive measures to safeguard against emerging threats.

Strategic Recommendations

An exploration of how geographic and site-specific factors impact the operations of the Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) industry in the US, focusing on location, topography, climate, vegetation, zoning, infrastructure, and cultural context.

Location: Operations are most effective in urban areas with high foot traffic, where demand for payphones and related equipment is greater. Regions with a history of public telecommunication infrastructure, such as New York and California, provide a supportive environment for these operations. Accessibility to major transportation routes enhances distribution efficiency, allowing wholesalers to reach a broad customer base quickly. Additionally, proximity to service centers and repair facilities can streamline maintenance operations, which are critical for sustaining equipment performance.

Topography: Flat urban landscapes are ideal for the installation of payphones and related equipment, as they facilitate easier access for maintenance and servicing. Areas with significant elevation changes may pose challenges for installation and accessibility, potentially increasing operational costs. The presence of public spaces, such as parks and plazas, enhances the viability of these operations, while regions with rugged terrain may limit the placement of equipment, affecting overall service availability.

Climate: Mild climates are advantageous for outdoor equipment, as extreme weather conditions can lead to increased maintenance needs and equipment failures. Seasonal variations, such as heavy snowfall or intense heat, can impact the functionality of payphones and card-operated devices, necessitating climate-resilient designs. Regions with consistent weather patterns allow for more predictable operational planning, reducing downtime caused by adverse weather conditions and ensuring reliable service delivery throughout the year.

Vegetation: Urban vegetation can impact the visibility and accessibility of payphones and card-operated equipment, necessitating careful site selection to avoid overgrown areas that may obscure devices. Compliance with local environmental regulations regarding vegetation management is essential, particularly in maintaining clear sightlines for public safety. Additionally, the presence of trees and other landscaping can influence the placement of equipment, requiring strategic planning to ensure optimal functionality and accessibility for users.

Zoning and Land Use: Zoning regulations in urban areas typically dictate where payphones and card-operated equipment can be installed, often requiring permits for placement in public spaces. Compliance with local land use regulations is crucial, as some municipalities may have restrictions on the installation of outdoor equipment to maintain aesthetic standards. Variations in zoning laws across regions can affect operational flexibility, necessitating thorough research and planning to navigate local requirements effectively.

Infrastructure: Robust infrastructure is essential for the effective operation of this industry, including reliable electrical supply for card readers and communication systems. Transportation infrastructure plays a critical role in ensuring timely distribution and maintenance of equipment, with access to major roadways facilitating efficient logistics. Additionally, communication networks must be reliable to support the functionality of card-operated devices, requiring ongoing partnerships with telecommunications providers to ensure service continuity.

Cultural and Historical: Community acceptance of payphones and card-operated equipment varies, with urban areas often showing greater tolerance due to their historical presence in public spaces. However, as mobile technology becomes more prevalent, some communities may express resistance to the installation of new equipment. Historical trends in telecommunications can influence local attitudes, with regions that have a strong legacy of public telephony being more supportive of these operations. Engaging with local communities through outreach initiatives can help address concerns and foster positive relationships.

A detailed overview of the Telephone-Coin & Card Operated (Wholesale) industry’s market dynamics, competitive landscape, and operational conditions, highlighting the unique factors influencing its day-to-day activities.

Market Overview

Market Size: Medium

Description: This industry focuses on the wholesale distribution of electronic parts and equipment specifically designed for coin and card-operated telephones, including payphones, coin boxes, and card readers. Operations encompass sourcing, warehousing, and logistics management to supply these products to various retail and business clients.

Market Stage: Mature. The industry is in a mature stage characterized by stable demand for maintenance and replacement parts for existing coin and card-operated systems, with limited growth due to the decline in new installations.

Geographic Distribution: National. Operations are distributed across major urban centers where coin and card-operated telephones are still in use, with a concentration in areas with high foot traffic such as transportation hubs and tourist attractions.

Characteristics

Market Structure

Market Concentration: Fragmented. The market is characterized by a fragmented structure with numerous small to medium-sized wholesalers competing for market share, each specializing in different aspects of the product range.

Segments

Distribution Channels

Success Factors

Demand Analysis

Demand Drivers

Competitive Landscape

Entry Barriers

Business Models

Operating Environment