There’s still a lot of work to be done to professionalize the space, but it’s getting there.
Bob Lafon, Founder & Chairman, Global Mobile Association
This is the first time you’ve joined us as a judge.
Yes though I do operate my own event, Mobile Disrupt, and have been involved in judging for 5 years for an event that draws 1,500 people so I come to the role with plenty of experience.
What do you look for when reviewing an application?
How has this individual positively disrupted their industry? What have they contributed? What are their accomplishments? Other factors may be considered depending on the specific award for which they were nominated.
What’s your view on today’s refurbished mobile industry?
It has improved. With more consistent grading standards being adopted, companies starting to stand behind their products with friendlier return/exchange policies, warranties, and even extended warranties, consumer confidence is growing and used mobile devices are now more “acceptable” than ever before. There’s still a lot of work to be done to professionalize the space, but it’s getting there.
How does the European market compare to what you’re seeing in the US?
The US market is more developed in terms of volume, cooperation with carriers, OEM’s, insurance providers, and the wholesale distributors. However, the amount of fraud in the US market tends to be higher. In part because it’s the largest market in the world, but also due to a lack of regulations that the European market has implemented. The European market is also further along from an environmental protection perspective than the US market.
What trend or change do you anticipate disrupting the global mobile industry?
The elimination of traders/brokers. These individuals/companies add no real value to the space. They just increase demand and cost and make it harder for those who have invested in infrastructure and resources to source products and make money. In time, the market will correct that, making it nearly impossible for traders/brokers to survive, but at the present time, there is more demand than supply due to the influx of the traders/brokers. E-SIM and regulations will also impact the market.