- Report: #100236
Complaint Review: American Entertainment Dirtributors, Inc.
| American Entertainment Dirtributors, Inc. 2514 Hollywood Blvd. Suite 200
Hollywood, Florida U.S.A. |
|
American Entertainment Dirtributors, Inc. Stay away from AED. They are a ripoff fraud DVD vending machines distributors Hollywood Florida
*UPDATE EX-employee responds: I just want to make it absolutely clear that UTS and AED were owned by the same people, there for one and the same.
*UPDATE EX-employee responds: Ex Employees that are bitter
*UPDATE EX-employee responds: UTS, was not even a company, how can a company run out of a warehouse, and under the leadership of a bunch of idiots be consider a great company?
*Consumer Suggestion: Is anyone interested in purchasing my machine?
*Consumer Comment: Alternative DVD vending machine source ..put 15,900 down on an Israeli machine from oneforce marketing with 10,000 due on delivery
*Consumer Suggestion: What to do from here...
*Consumer Comment: Need help
*Consumer Suggestion: START THINKING SMART
*UPDATE EX-employee responds: Ready for more bad news?
*UPDATE EX-employee responds: Soar technicians
*UPDATE EX-employee responds: employees of utech were not laid off for lack of money we were let go because they were going to go with a machine made in texas
*UPDATE EX-employee responds: employees of utech were not laid off for lack of money we were let go because they were going to go with a machine made in texas
*UPDATE EX-employee responds: Undelivered machines
*Consumer Suggestion: Not sure FTC is involved
*Consumer Comment: What about those who haven't gotten machines yet?
*Consumer Suggestion: Technical Support Needed
*UPDATE EX-employee responds: Support this has been a horror story for us all.
*Consumer Suggestion: DISTRIBUTORS UNITE
*Consumer Comment: Interested in new machines
*Consumer Comment: Where did AED go? FTC closing them down
*Consumer Comment: If you saw my machine....
*Consumer Comment: If you saw my machine....
*Consumer Comment: If you saw my machine....
*Consumer Comment: If you saw my machine....
*Consumer Suggestion: Someone got there way!
*UPDATE EX-employee responds: Any distaste with the DVD Machines
*UPDATE EX-employee responds: Any distaste with the DVD Machines
*UPDATE EX-employee responds: Any distaste with the DVD Machines
*UPDATE EX-employee responds: Any distaste with the DVD Machines
*Consumer Suggestion: once a technician is contacted they have been very helpful in fixing any problems and have found them very knowledgeable
*Author of original report: I have reached satisfactory agreement with AED
*Consumer Comment: DOING WELL - PLEASE EXPLAIN
*Consumer Comment: DOING WELL - PLEASE EXPLAIN
*Consumer Comment: DOING WELL - PLEASE EXPLAIN
*Consumer Comment: This a very new concept which requires operators to have patients
*Consumer Comment: Response to negative comments
*Consumer Comment: a new enterprise is the same as separating cats in a bag...
*REBUTTAL Owner of company: Many, Many Successful Distributors
*Consumer Comment: There are many who have been ripped off by AED not 1 or 2
*Consumer Comment: Patent Infringement
*Consumer Comment: Just Curious... I just could not fathom how these could make any money
*Consumer Comment: Growing Pains!
*Consumer Comment: False advertisng, false business claims, no distributor support
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Corporate Advocacy Program™
American Entertainment Distributors is a DVD vending machines distributors. They ask for money ahead of time. Once they recieve your money they stop responding to your phone calls or emails. When you get serious with them and try to take legal action against them, they buy time and ship an empty box to you. So, please be aware of the fraud. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sayed
Pleasanton, California
U.S.A.
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This report was posted on Ripoff Report on 07/23/2004 11:52 AM and is a permanent record located here: http://www.ripoffreport.com/r/American-Entertainment-Dirtributors-Inc/Hollywood-Florida-33020/American-Entertainment-Dirtributors-Inc-Stay-away-from-AED-They-are-a-ripoff-fraud-DVD-100236. The posting time indicated is Arizona local time. Arizona does not observe daylight savings so the post time may be Mountain or Pacific depending on the time of year.
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Search Tips#1 UPDATE EX-employee responds
I just want to make it absolutely clear that UTS and AED were owned by the same people, there for one and the same.
AUTHOR: Kevin - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
#2 UPDATE EX-employee responds
Ex Employees that are bitter
AUTHOR: Semon - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
Dont be bitter, I encourage you to continue to try to contact Dispenser owners, and help them out. I mentioned opening a company to service these owners but 3 different attorneys pointed out the ways that a class action lawsuit could take my home. I know more than dvd machines, so I'll move on. Its unfortunate to see the little minds on here bashing anyone they can try to, without even the manliness to put their first name on their rantings.
I know why you don't , cause you would be called out for the loser that you were. Enough of the mud slinging, help out the BOE owners you can, they deserve it, and I hope you dont get caught by a class action lawsuit from the dissatisfied dispenser owners ( the ones who support IS owed to)
Have a nice life.....I hope we may never meet again.
#3 UPDATE EX-employee responds
UTS, was not even a company, how can a company run out of a warehouse, and under the leadership of a bunch of idiots be consider a great company?
AUTHOR: EX WORKER - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
UTS knew that VNL machines did not work for months and continued to sell them and install them, I could gone forever, but I don't think there is need to say more.
#4 Consumer Suggestion
Is anyone interested in purchasing my machine?
AUTHOR: John - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
#5 Consumer Comment
Alternative DVD vending machine source ..put 15,900 down on an Israeli machine from oneforce marketing with 10,000 due on delivery
AUTHOR: Jim - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
I paid 36,900 to AED for a Riello from AED onAugust 4. I also put 15,900 down on an Israeli machine from oneforce marketing with 10,000 due on delivery. I was never comfortable with the attitude or professionalism of AED and figured that there would be dificulties (late shipment, poor support, unspecified expenses, etc.) but I never dreamed I could be out 37k. I would count myself fortunate to get half my money back at this point.
All of my dealings with Nick at 1force have been more than satisfactory. They are small and just getting started. I expect delivery in the last week of this month and could have gotten it sooner, but I was not ready. At this point I can't vouch for it's reliability, but I have been servicing medical equipment for 17 years and don't anticipate anything I can't handle. There are several machines listed on Ebay also.
#6 Consumer Suggestion
What to do from here...
AUTHOR: Ken - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
Now I know the company is under FTC investigation and most likely will not be opening up again. So my question is, how will I get my money back? monies that I have saved since I was 16 years old. My life time savings to start a business to support my new family and new born. 40,000 may not be alot of money for some of you but it is my LIFE.
I really need your help out there if you have any suggestions or ideas.
What if we contact the company in Italy and purchase the machines from them directly? Although there is an exclusive contract with AED, AED does not exist anymore.
If you have any suggestions for me, I would really appreciate your help.
PS: does anyone know another company other than DVDplay that sells vending machines for DVDs?
Please post below!
sincerely,
Sales have been slow, but I haven't started marketing do to some inventory issues. However, rentals have been increasing organically, probably do to the machine's location in the middle of a large college population.
Nonetheless, the apparent demise of AED and Utech is very troubling. Obviously I'm not going to be making use of the 1 year support agreement, and would like to be reimbursed, but concede that this probably isn't going to happen. I doubt that much will be gained by a lawsuit, but I sure don't blame those who have faulty or no equipment for trying. If asked, I suppose that I would sign on to a class action lawsuit.
But more pressing, I have a few simple questions regarding the software, and the location of the Windows Authenticity Certificate. They can most likely be addressed in one email. If there is anyone out there who I can email my questions to, please email me at
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Thanks. And don't worry, I won't sue you.
Once again, those of you that do have dispensers should be looking to find a group of techs that will organize and help maintain your machines. Yes, the original deal was free tech support for a year....give it up. Everything has changed. If you don't want to write off your $35,000 investment start looking for a way to save it....that is by finding a group of techs that will support you. Otherwise you are doomed to financial loss!!
To those techs that are trying to organize. It is a honorable idea. If I can help, I'll certainly do so.
my e-mail address will be replaced when I pay Rip-off Report for the use of this space..
#9 UPDATE EX-employee responds
Ready for more bad news?
AUTHOR: Semon - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
People that just set us back weeks and will increase any type of consultation costs as we now have to hire attorneys to make sure that we are not linked to companies that are shut down and that our scope of support is not misunderstood.
The former employees of UTECH felt bad for you guys, we still feel that way for those of you who are trying to make your business a success, however we will not jeopardize what we own for the few out there who are looking to sue everybody.
We are techs people, diversified and not "locked in" to having to support dvd dispensers, so depending on our next meeting we shall see what part of this nightmare we want to be associated with. I assure you we do not want any part of it, we are honest hard working people, we will move on if we have to.
As for those techs that were let go, business owners know if your cashier cant count or operate the cash machine, its time for the cashier to change positions in the company or be let go. AED didn't pay UTS either and some guys did get moved , the ones who got laid off were really not that good for a chance. So you band of "lets sue everyone" your broken machines will stay that way for some time to come.
I think we need to stick together and try to seek legal action together and go after AED
Lissa
Spring, Texas
U.S.A.
I don't know if any body else is in the same boat but 2 hours is hardly a drop in the bucket when it comes to figuring out how to operate this machine. As of October 8 the machine is stil not operating. If anybody knows how to operate this machine please let me know.
Rick
Torrance, California
U.S.A.
I suggest we get organized, possibly prematurely, possibly not, by following the link on the home page of www.ripoffreport.com as follows:
AS STATED ON THE HOME PAGE OF RIP-OFF REPORT.COM
ORGANIZING CLASS ACTION LAWSUITS
VICTIMS & LAWYERS, WHO WANT TO SUE COMPANIES OR INDIVIDUALS REPORTED
Harold
Edmond, Oklahoma
U.S.A.
I also have looked into a suit against these companies.
BRANDI - ERIE, Colorado
U.S.A.
want my money back, and would be willing to support a class action case.
Gerald - Saint Marys, Florida
U.S.A.
All victims like myself, don't listen to what Stephen has to say. We don't need negative ignorant people. Just file your complaint with the FTC, and they will pick up our case.
Stay positive. It's very important.
#10 UPDATE EX-employee responds
Soar technicians
AUTHOR: Umemployed Tech - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
For those customers out there that feel that UTS ripped them off, think again, Like Semon said, think about how much it cost for airfare 1 day before the flight, think of the stress it places on a tech to when he is told at 6PM today that he has to fly to God knows where tomorrow at 7AM to fix your machines. There is a customer out in Pheonix, AZ that has had his fair share of issues. He has posted on here how we have not helped him. Whenever he had an issue, some has gone out every single time to upgrade memory, operating system, replacing databases, whatever his issues were they were fixed, but was he greatful, no not at all, all he could do is complain that his machine was not making any money.
People, open your eyes and realize that this is not a turn-key business. It takes time, and dedication. Shit if I invested 30,000 I damn sure gonna put in the time to ensure my business survives. If you are in location that is not profitable, move the damn machine. Advertise, market, market, market. It is not that hard. Then to those people that never ever touched a computer before buying this machine, you mess something up, don't know what you did and expected us to fix it? Come on now, be real, but what UTS still sent a tech out to fix the issue, I personally have been sent on repairs and all I had to do was to reboot the machine, come now!!! Now each trip cost airfare, hotel, rental car and food for that tech. Is this fair to those that have real issues that I could have gone to take care of, but this person was so sure the machine had burnt out, and guess what were they charged for my trip no, UTS paid the bill.
It is sad what has happened to UTS, it is sad what has happened to you who have machines or those waiting on machines, but what takes the cake, is that now you all have caused many people to be without jobs, many of which has kids, congratulations, you all have earned you one way ticket hell.
#11 UPDATE EX-employee responds
employees of utech were not laid off for lack of money we were let go because they were going to go with a machine made in texas
AUTHOR: Do Not Wish To Disclose - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
who knows. this job was like being back in high school if you were not in the in crowd you were out! they turned techs into sales people and cut their saleries in more than half from $650/week to $250/ week paid under the table if they got paid at all ..what kind of sick joke is that for a company to do to its so call well oiled machine
and great place to work. you people can draw your own conclusions but listening to any of that mess will only cloud the truth ..enough of the lies utech and try something new for a change like the truth . better to hear it from you now , then to listen to u mumble some excuse after the court rules on all of you!!!
#12 UPDATE EX-employee responds
employees of utech were not laid off for lack of money we were let go because they were going to go with a machine made in texas
AUTHOR: Do Not Wish To Disclose - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
who knows. this job was like being back in high school if you were not in the in crowd you were out! they turned techs into sales people and cut their saleries in more than half from $650/week to $250/ week paid under the table if they got paid at all ..what kind of sick joke is that for a company to do to its so call well oiled machine
and great place to work. you people can draw your own conclusions but listening to any of that mess will only cloud the truth ..enough of the lies utech and try something new for a change like the truth . better to hear it from you now , then to listen to u mumble some excuse after the court rules on all of you!!!
#13 UPDATE EX-employee responds
Undelivered machines
AUTHOR: Semon - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
#14 Consumer Suggestion
Not sure FTC is involved
AUTHOR: Stephen - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
Lets get organized. I suggest we contact the largest newspaper in Florida and get a reporter involved. I also support hiring a PI to track these SOB's down and find out the truth. Let us put together a list of all the names that we have come in contact with. I'll start - Jim MacAuthor, Mike Menkes, Thomas Kling.
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#15 Consumer Comment
What about those who haven't gotten machines yet?
AUTHOR: Gene - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
Its great to hear that UTS might be up and running again to support those with technical issues on their machines. Do you have any informatiion or recommendations for those of us who have paid the big bucks, but haven't gotten a machine delivered yet?
You also reported that the FTC shut down your company and AED. It seems the FTC knows nothing about this (or isn't talking). Do you have any additional information regarding WHY the companies were shut down?
Any help would be appreciated. I understand that you are out of a job - I am out just about everything I had.
#16 Consumer Suggestion
Technical Support Needed
AUTHOR: another creep - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
To those of you at UTech looking to find a way to help us....we really appreciate it!!
THANKS.
my e-mail address will be replaced when I pay Rip-off Report for the use of this space..
#17 UPDATE EX-employee responds
Support this has been a horror story for us all.
AUTHOR: Semon - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
I have been in contact with a few business owners and can give you the following information.
A contingency plan is in place. UTECH may be up and running in the near future, however that is a best case scenario, worst case scenario holds that court proceedings may drag this out.
We want you to know that we are trying to make sure that we can set up some type of support for you.
Now we do not have the necessary infrastructure to give full support, however we are working out plans to offer some type of support and we will be contacting all owners in the very near future to see what we can do.
Thanks for your patience, this has been a horror story for us all.
Phil or Darrell...do either of you have any additional locations you'd like to place your machines? My "real" business took a turn and requires my full attention...I'd be interested in selling my dispensers at a very reasonable price.
#19 Consumer Comment
Interested in new machines
AUTHOR: creep - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
I would be interested in purchasing your Riello machine assuming that is can be installed and comes in good working condition. I currently have one other machine. Please contact me and we can talk about it. Have a good day.
my e-mail address will be replaced when I pay Rip-off Report for the use of this space..
#20 Consumer Comment
Where did AED go? FTC closing them down
AUTHOR: Stephen - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
Have I just been duped?
Any information on this subject would greatly be appreciated.
(If it is true about FTC closing them down, how would I go about getting information)
#21 Consumer Comment
If you saw my machine....
AUTHOR: Gordon - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
If you saw what they shipped me and claimed it was new you would have a different story.
#22 Consumer Comment
If you saw my machine....
AUTHOR: Gordon - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
If you saw what they shipped me and claimed it was new you would have a different story.
#23 Consumer Comment
If you saw my machine....
AUTHOR: Gordon - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
If you saw what they shipped me and claimed it was new you would have a different story.
#24 Consumer Comment
If you saw my machine....
AUTHOR: Gordon - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
If you saw what they shipped me and claimed it was new you would have a different story.
#25 Consumer Suggestion
Someone got there way!
AUTHOR: Philip - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
This is a NEW VENTURE, a business oppertunity-not a get rich quick scheme, not an overnigh success! Like any business, you need to MARKET IT, PROMOTE IT, and work at it...success will come. If you bought a unit, and expected the EXACT results that AED Sales Reps promised, than that is YOUR mistake...any responsible and intelligent person would take that information, and disect it....in a new business, hope you can make 1/3 of what they predict! Then decide, can you AFFORD to lose your investment, or only regain a portion of it for the first year?
What if we gave up on ATM MAchines, and the Banks did not force us to change our habits..WE WOULD BE STUCK IN LONG LINES. That is what this unit does, in the right place, it forces people to change their habits, and it is up to the owner to teach them. This is not the field of dream "Build it and they will come!" YOU Need to teach them and show them. I guarantee, once a customer tries the unit, they will love the unit-convienance, that is what human beings want.
I am sorry for those of you that had problems with AED, or the V & L Machine. I am sorry for those who had no problems and wanted to make an attempt at extra income, I feel sorry for myself that had faith in a company and am now possibly left to fend for myself!
For those of you that set out to SCREW IT UP for the rest of us, congradulations you pitiful and sad people! Try working out your problems with words and reason, not with hate and vindication! YOU WON!
#26 UPDATE EX-employee responds
Any distaste with the DVD Machines
AUTHOR: Semon - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
1. There are two versions of the machine, an Italian one and an American one.
2. The American made one became a pile of crap after their chief engineer left V&L Tool in May 2004, none of their machines arrived in an undamaged state or should I say that their machines had a 95% installation failure rate.
Nothing our support company did helped, even paying the highest cost (out of our own pocket) to the owner of V&L Tool son to ship it. The machines he shipped also did not work properly out of the box.A surprise visit by UTS's GM to V&L Tool found 8 out of 11 machines already inspected by V&L and ready to be shipped were not totally assembled, missing parts etc.
3. The Italian machines had a 95% success rate of installation.(end of story)
4. UTS is not owned by AED (as far as anyone knows) and AED was not paying UTS all the money UTS was owed.
5. Most of the problems owners had included them trying to manipulate the software in ways it should not have been and damaging it themselves and instead of reformatting and getiing up and running asap, they wanted to WAIT and have UTS rebuild their databases (which is a time consuming process that takes away from other support that could be given).
6. I mentioned UTS was not being paid by AED and that a lot of the costs of repair and installation happened to come out of UTS's pocket? well guess what a lot of owners also got onsite services for software they broke on their machine or hardware they broke by moving the machine thmselves. Guess how much a plane ticket costs when you buy it at the last minuite.
7. With over 300 customers installed by UTS how many complaints can you find???????? What do you say to THAT SUCCESS RATE? A success rate because of the superb service of one company, UTS and its management.
8. I told our GM we should have said something sooner, but the "lawyers" wouldn't let us.
9. Well as I indicated I am a former employee because the FTC has shut down both companies. I think it is because of the stink of a few, for the majority were being helped and getting somewhere, now what? What happens to all of the customers who needs the software upgrade or some emergency support for their business? At this time there is none.
10. UTS laid off half it's technicians because the cost was too great to continue with the amount of techs on hand, but still was dedicated to the Business Owners whom we wanted to help.
11. Until this situation is resolved, guess what, youre on youre own.
12. Pity is I feel sorry for those people who would have benefitted from our existence, the naysayers have condemned your business.
I say find out who caused it (the naysayers) and sue their asses off for affecting your business.
#27 UPDATE EX-employee responds
Any distaste with the DVD Machines
AUTHOR: Semon - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
1. There are two versions of the machine, an Italian one and an American one.
2. The American made one became a pile of crap after their chief engineer left V&L Tool in May 2004, none of their machines arrived in an undamaged state or should I say that their machines had a 95% installation failure rate.
Nothing our support company did helped, even paying the highest cost (out of our own pocket) to the owner of V&L Tool son to ship it. The machines he shipped also did not work properly out of the box.A surprise visit by UTS's GM to V&L Tool found 8 out of 11 machines already inspected by V&L and ready to be shipped were not totally assembled, missing parts etc.
3. The Italian machines had a 95% success rate of installation.(end of story)
4. UTS is not owned by AED (as far as anyone knows) and AED was not paying UTS all the money UTS was owed.
5. Most of the problems owners had included them trying to manipulate the software in ways it should not have been and damaging it themselves and instead of reformatting and getiing up and running asap, they wanted to WAIT and have UTS rebuild their databases (which is a time consuming process that takes away from other support that could be given).
6. I mentioned UTS was not being paid by AED and that a lot of the costs of repair and installation happened to come out of UTS's pocket? well guess what a lot of owners also got onsite services for software they broke on their machine or hardware they broke by moving the machine thmselves. Guess how much a plane ticket costs when you buy it at the last minuite.
7. With over 300 customers installed by UTS how many complaints can you find???????? What do you say to THAT SUCCESS RATE? A success rate because of the superb service of one company, UTS and its management.
8. I told our GM we should have said something sooner, but the "lawyers" wouldn't let us.
9. Well as I indicated I am a former employee because the FTC has shut down both companies. I think it is because of the stink of a few, for the majority were being helped and getting somewhere, now what? What happens to all of the customers who needs the software upgrade or some emergency support for their business? At this time there is none.
10. UTS laid off half it's technicians because the cost was too great to continue with the amount of techs on hand, but still was dedicated to the Business Owners whom we wanted to help.
11. Until this situation is resolved, guess what, youre on youre own.
12. Pity is I feel sorry for those people who would have benefitted from our existence, the naysayers have condemned your business.
I say find out who caused it (the naysayers) and sue their asses off for affecting your business.
#28 UPDATE EX-employee responds
Any distaste with the DVD Machines
AUTHOR: Semon - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
1. There are two versions of the machine, an Italian one and an American one.
2. The American made one became a pile of crap after their chief engineer left V&L Tool in May 2004, none of their machines arrived in an undamaged state or should I say that their machines had a 95% installation failure rate.
Nothing our support company did helped, even paying the highest cost (out of our own pocket) to the owner of V&L Tool son to ship it. The machines he shipped also did not work properly out of the box.A surprise visit by UTS's GM to V&L Tool found 8 out of 11 machines already inspected by V&L and ready to be shipped were not totally assembled, missing parts etc.
3. The Italian machines had a 95% success rate of installation.(end of story)
4. UTS is not owned by AED (as far as anyone knows) and AED was not paying UTS all the money UTS was owed.
5. Most of the problems owners had included them trying to manipulate the software in ways it should not have been and damaging it themselves and instead of reformatting and getiing up and running asap, they wanted to WAIT and have UTS rebuild their databases (which is a time consuming process that takes away from other support that could be given).
6. I mentioned UTS was not being paid by AED and that a lot of the costs of repair and installation happened to come out of UTS's pocket? well guess what a lot of owners also got onsite services for software they broke on their machine or hardware they broke by moving the machine thmselves. Guess how much a plane ticket costs when you buy it at the last minuite.
7. With over 300 customers installed by UTS how many complaints can you find???????? What do you say to THAT SUCCESS RATE? A success rate because of the superb service of one company, UTS and its management.
8. I told our GM we should have said something sooner, but the "lawyers" wouldn't let us.
9. Well as I indicated I am a former employee because the FTC has shut down both companies. I think it is because of the stink of a few, for the majority were being helped and getting somewhere, now what? What happens to all of the customers who needs the software upgrade or some emergency support for their business? At this time there is none.
10. UTS laid off half it's technicians because the cost was too great to continue with the amount of techs on hand, but still was dedicated to the Business Owners whom we wanted to help.
11. Until this situation is resolved, guess what, youre on youre own.
12. Pity is I feel sorry for those people who would have benefitted from our existence, the naysayers have condemned your business.
I say find out who caused it (the naysayers) and sue their asses off for affecting your business.
#29 UPDATE EX-employee responds
Any distaste with the DVD Machines
AUTHOR: Semon - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
1. There are two versions of the machine, an Italian one and an American one.
2. The American made one became a pile of crap after their chief engineer left V&L Tool in May 2004, none of their machines arrived in an undamaged state or should I say that their machines had a 95% installation failure rate.
Nothing our support company did helped, even paying the highest cost (out of our own pocket) to the owner of V&L Tool son to ship it. The machines he shipped also did not work properly out of the box.A surprise visit by UTS's GM to V&L Tool found 8 out of 11 machines already inspected by V&L and ready to be shipped were not totally assembled, missing parts etc.
3. The Italian machines had a 95% success rate of installation.(end of story)
4. UTS is not owned by AED (as far as anyone knows) and AED was not paying UTS all the money UTS was owed.
5. Most of the problems owners had included them trying to manipulate the software in ways it should not have been and damaging it themselves and instead of reformatting and getiing up and running asap, they wanted to WAIT and have UTS rebuild their databases (which is a time consuming process that takes away from other support that could be given).
6. I mentioned UTS was not being paid by AED and that a lot of the costs of repair and installation happened to come out of UTS's pocket? well guess what a lot of owners also got onsite services for software they broke on their machine or hardware they broke by moving the machine thmselves. Guess how much a plane ticket costs when you buy it at the last minuite.
7. With over 300 customers installed by UTS how many complaints can you find???????? What do you say to THAT SUCCESS RATE? A success rate because of the superb service of one company, UTS and its management.
8. I told our GM we should have said something sooner, but the "lawyers" wouldn't let us.
9. Well as I indicated I am a former employee because the FTC has shut down both companies. I think it is because of the stink of a few, for the majority were being helped and getting somewhere, now what? What happens to all of the customers who needs the software upgrade or some emergency support for their business? At this time there is none.
10. UTS laid off half it's technicians because the cost was too great to continue with the amount of techs on hand, but still was dedicated to the Business Owners whom we wanted to help.
11. Until this situation is resolved, guess what, youre on youre own.
12. Pity is I feel sorry for those people who would have benefitted from our existence, the naysayers have condemned your business.
I say find out who caused it (the naysayers) and sue their asses off for affecting your business.
#30 Consumer Suggestion
once a technician is contacted they have been very helpful in fixing any problems and have found them very knowledgeable
AUTHOR: William - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
On the other hand I would agree with the comment to "take care of your distributors".
You will sell more machines thru better marketing support better location dept. and enough of unexpected expenses i.e now a large
cost to download trailers.
Mr MacArthur I think you have the opportunity to build a great company all I would ask to improve upon it is that you personally monitor the ethics of your sales people and help your distributors create a contact list of people that our already successful in this venture so ideas could be shared to help grow this business even faster.
Thank You
#31 Author of original report
I have reached satisfactory agreement with AED
AUTHOR: Obaidullah - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
I have reached satisfactory agreement with AED and I am completely satisfied with the company and their solution. Therefore, I will negate my prior statements.
Obaid Amir
#32 Consumer Comment
DOING WELL - PLEASE EXPLAIN
AUTHOR: Diane - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
This is Diane..you responded in general to my earlier "report". Although I had a terrible customer service problem on my 1st delivery, I am over that and now operating more smoothly. However, despite various marketing methods I am not seeing results similar to those AED verbalized (of course they make no written projections on income. That would only get them in trouble) nor seeing results that would make this large capital investment a worthwhile investment. I would be very interested to learn what types of locations you are in, estimated daily foot traffic and how many rentals you average per week. How long did it take you to start realizing what you now consider "good results". To those of you that feel you are doing well your definition of "well" is greatly appreciated. Marketing hints are appreciated also.
CLICK here to see why Rip-off Report, as a matter of policy, deleted either a phone number, link or e-mail address from this Report.
Also, to those of you that are doing well and still interested in pursuing this business, I have a brand new AED, Riello machine, still boxed, that I may sell at a price much lower than the current AED price. Jim, I would assume that AED would still honor the installation and service on this machine.
#33 Consumer Comment
DOING WELL - PLEASE EXPLAIN
AUTHOR: Diane - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
This is Diane..you responded in general to my earlier "report". Although I had a terrible customer service problem on my 1st delivery, I am over that and now operating more smoothly. However, despite various marketing methods I am not seeing results similar to those AED verbalized (of course they make no written projections on income. That would only get them in trouble) nor seeing results that would make this large capital investment a worthwhile investment. I would be very interested to learn what types of locations you are in, estimated daily foot traffic and how many rentals you average per week. How long did it take you to start realizing what you now consider "good results". To those of you that feel you are doing well your definition of "well" is greatly appreciated. Marketing hints are appreciated also.
CLICK here to see why Rip-off Report, as a matter of policy, deleted either a phone number, link or e-mail address from this Report.
Also, to those of you that are doing well and still interested in pursuing this business, I have a brand new AED, Riello machine, still boxed, that I may sell at a price much lower than the current AED price. Jim, I would assume that AED would still honor the installation and service on this machine.
#34 Consumer Comment
DOING WELL - PLEASE EXPLAIN
AUTHOR: Diane - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
This is Diane..you responded in general to my earlier "report". Although I had a terrible customer service problem on my 1st delivery, I am over that and now operating more smoothly. However, despite various marketing methods I am not seeing results similar to those AED verbalized (of course they make no written projections on income. That would only get them in trouble) nor seeing results that would make this large capital investment a worthwhile investment. I would be very interested to learn what types of locations you are in, estimated daily foot traffic and how many rentals you average per week. How long did it take you to start realizing what you now consider "good results". To those of you that feel you are doing well your definition of "well" is greatly appreciated. Marketing hints are appreciated also.
CLICK here to see why Rip-off Report, as a matter of policy, deleted either a phone number, link or e-mail address from this Report.
Also, to those of you that are doing well and still interested in pursuing this business, I have a brand new AED, Riello machine, still boxed, that I may sell at a price much lower than the current AED price. Jim, I would assume that AED would still honor the installation and service on this machine.
#35 Consumer Comment
This a very new concept which requires operators to have patients
AUTHOR: Karl - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
First I want to thank AED, personally for being so responsive to my past questions and concerns with my machine. I have a machine that is far more capable than my understanding and AED has helped me with my learning curve. This a very new concept which requires operators to have patients. I have over twenty-two years in machine tool automation processes with the automotive industry, along with a Bachelors degree in marketing. The automation that AED is offering is in my opinion the best of its kind in the world. Many of you do not realize the importance of this as I. You have the opportunity to compete head to head with the largest corporations in the world with two of the most important aspects of video rental, which is "Convenience and Cost" for the customer, and for you the merchant, "Place and Price". It is not possible for Netflix, Walmart, Blockbuster, Cable, Satelite, Video-on-demand, downloading, ect..to compete with my pricing because all are very expensive processes that require enormous "Overhead".
This is a business that requires operators to act responsibly and take advantage of this great opportunity. AED will help tremendously.
Take Care,
#36 Consumer Comment
Response to negative comments
AUTHOR: Darrell - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
I became a distributor back in Dec. 2003 (aka: machine owner) Since December I have purchased two more machines. I can honestly say I hate salesmen tactics. I can relate to feeling pressured while they qualified me as a serious buyer, or just a window shopper.
Because of interest in the product I chose not to write them off right away, and I decided I would personally visit their corporate office and their technical division in order to make my final decision. After I did so, I completely understood what they mean when they say the response and interest levels are extremely high, and they are simply differentiating between those who have funds available for this opportunity, or those who wish they had funds available.
If for any reason I felt dissatisfied with their customer service skills, or I received an empty box, or the ability to make extra $$$ was not there, I definitely would not have purchased 2 more machines. I agree with the gentlemen who said locations are the key to success, and I know that I have not seen these machines everywhere YET. Therefore, leading me to believe that great locations are still available! As for the people that can not fathom making money with these machines, I guess they are not aware of the popularity and somewhat monopoly Blockbuster has.
I guess if they had a machine that had all new releases and games in either, their apartment building, office building, supermarkets, University etc. they would still opt to drive to their local video store. I personally believe that bringing convenience to consumers brings me success.
As for the patent infringement gentleman the machines that I bought are manufactured in Europe. Although AED has the exclusive rights to sell them in the US. The same company has been manufacturing these machines and successfully promoting this automated way of renting movies for over a decade. I did my research!!!
I welcome any person out there who would like to ask questions regarding my experience with this company. I have received great support and have confidence in AED. Trust me, if for any reason I was dissatisfied, you would have seen my posting back in December. Post your comments below.
CLICK here to see why Rip-off Report, as a matter of policy, deleted either a phone number, link or e-mail address from this Report.
#37 Consumer Comment
a new enterprise is the same as separating cats in a bag...
AUTHOR: Darren - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
Mr. MacArthur
I can understand that trying to get everything going in a new enterprise is the same as separating cats in a bag...
It does sound like that with all the competing areas, manufacturing, financing, marketing, legal and customer service, it was customer service that (as usual) got the short shrift.
I know that it is important to begin cash flow. However, as you mentioned, your company can't succeed if your cusomters don't.
Your relationship with your Distributor will be the most important and finding out that your representitives need to go back and train after the roll out shows where the focus of management needs to be applied.
Thanks,
#38 REBUTTAL Owner of company
Many, Many Successful Distributors
AUTHOR: Jim - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
My name is Jim MacArthur and I am the President of American Entertainment Distributors (AED). In response to the recent Reports from Obaid Sayed and Diane, who have both purchased our Box Office Express machines, we regret that there was any possible confusion about our product or it's capabilities.
Obaid stated that we ask for payment for this very valuable machine in advance.
AED is a Business Opportunity and the high cost of a machine requires pre-payment to cover the potential loss of a machine. If we lost a machine it would wipe out the profits from the sale of many machines. Obaid also said that we were not responsive to his calls or emails. I would like to ask Obaid to please call me directly at (866) 669-4371 and I will make sure that proper responses are given to any questions. I will look into Obaid's comment about shipping an empty box. Machines and accessories are usually shipped on 2 pallets. I trust Obaid refused the shipment of the empty box.
Diane mentioned that the software did not perform the tasks that we advertise. I would respectfully ask Diane to call me so that we can make sure that Diane understands how to maximize the potential of the software. In order to improve the training of our Technicians we have been routinely sending them to Italy, where the machines are manufactured, for extensive training. We did have some delays when we first began shipping machines that were mostly due to delays in US Customs and manufacturing concerns due to the overwhelming response and demand for the machines. Fortunately today, we are not experiencing the delays that we had when we first started.
We at AED are striving to improve and we encourage any and all constructive criticism. In many ways we feel that we have a partnership with our Distributors. The machines will not run themselves. Our Distributors must market their machines as they would in any business. AED is committed to satisfying our customer's needs. We plan to participate in and stay abreast of the rapid growth of Video Rental Vending Machines for many years to come.
Jim MacArthur- President of American Entertainment Distributors.
#39 Consumer Comment
There are many who have been ripped off by AED not 1 or 2
AUTHOR: Obaid - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
Also, for anyone thinking about investing in AED's units consider the following. DIEBOLD's unit never proved profitable to manufacture or to the small number of companies that purchased the units. There is just too much competetion and availabilty through local rental chain stores and pay per view. The only market a unit like this might be well suited for is in the Hotel and resort industry and only if the hotels would likewise invest in installing VCR's or DVD players in their rooms and they likewise already service pay per view movies and games.
Save your money on this folks and invest in a coke and candy machine in a business office. You will make more.
Note: I worked for Diebold for a number of years on this product, Banks systems, and other products.
#41 Consumer Comment
Just Curious... I just could not fathom how these could make any money
AUTHOR: Layne - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006
I'm just wondering what you paid for the machines and videos and just how this whole operation is supposed to work.
Thanks.
Tech support has been wonderful. When they installed the unit in my location, the Tech took 2 days with us, 1 installing and another teaching. When he left, things went great for 2 days, then one of the Modem's froze. I made a phone call, which took around 2 hours of trouble shooting (a bit much), but when they could not fix the problem over the phone, a tech was flown out in 2 days, with a new modem, and the problem was resolved. The machine has been perfect since.
I feel the attack against AED is unfounded and is merely an opinion of 1 or 2, when they have many satisfied distributors. Everyone must do reasearch on a busienss venture. It may not be for everyone.
If anyone has a comment or question, from someone actually owning and operating a unit, my e-mail address will be replaced when I pay Rip-off Report for the use of this space..
#43 Consumer Comment
False advertisng, false business claims, no distributor support
AUTHOR: Diane - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, May 01, 2006

