SquareTrade Partners With CEA to Release Industry Report on Protection Plans


SAN FRANCISCO, CA--(Marketwired - Feb 3, 2014) - SquareTrade®, the #1-rated protection plan trusted by millions of happy customers, today announced the publication of the Consumer Electronics Association's (CEA)® industry report on protection plans and accompanying white paper: Protection Plans - A Retailer's Guide to Choosing a Warranty Partner. The research, created in collaboration with SquareTrade, explores what consumer's value most when choosing a protection plan and how retailers can optimize the warranty experience for their customers.

"Consumers are increasingly seeking protection plans for their electronics -- especially mobile devices," said Shawn DuBravac, CEA's chief economist and senior director of market research. "The survey revealed consumer attitudes towards protection plans, the importance of brand, replacement cost, and the process for selecting a plan."

From the findings, CEA authored a white paper that reveals some rules of thumb that can help retailers make smart decisions and turn protection plans into a service that creates a positive and long-term relationship with customers.

"We're not surprised to find that trust, transparency and world-class service are among the missing ingredients when it comes to purchasing protection for their devices. It's the reason we have invested in making SquareTrade the most trusted brand in protection," said Ty Shay, CMO at SquareTrade.

The white paper, entitled Protection Plans - A Retailer's Guide to Choosing a Warranty Partner, is available on SquareTrade's blog in the Studies & Infographs  section.

The Consumer Electronics, Protection Plans and Changing Habits study was designed and formulated by CEA Market Research, the most comprehensive source of sales data, forecasts, consumer research and historical trends for the consumer electronics industry. Please cite any information to the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)®.

The complete study is available free to CEA member companies at members.CE.org. Non-members may purchase the study for $399 at the CEA store.

About CEA

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the technology trade association representing the $208 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also owns and produces the International CES - The Global Stage for Innovation. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA's industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org, www.DeclareInnovation.com and through social media.

About SquareTrade

SquareTrade is the top-rated protection plan trusted by millions of happy customers for its fast and exceptional service. SquareTrade protects mobile devices, laptops and tablets, and other consumer electronics and appliances from malfunctions, accidental damage and life's frequent mishaps. Unlike old-fashioned warranties, SquareTrade is designed for today's consumer and uses innovative technology to deliver a zero hassle claims process. SquareTrade has more than 200,000 fans on Facebook, consistently wins industry awards and receives thousands of 5-star reviews for its legendary customer service. Top retailers around the world offer SquareTrade, achieving significant sales growth and happier customers. Privately held, SquareTrade's investors include Bain Capital and Bain Capital Ventures. SquareTrade is headquartered in San Francisco and London. For more information, go to www.squaretrade.com

SquareTrade is a registered trademark of SquareTrade, Inc. All other company, brand and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Contact Information:

PRESS CONTACT:
Jessica Hoffman

408-969-1163