BEC商务英语初级阅读材料(2)

Dan Smith是一位美国的健身用品经销商，此次是Robert第一回与他交手。就在短短几分钟的交谈中，Robert即感到这位大汉粗犷的外表下，藏有狡黠如脱兔的心思--他肯定是名沙场老将，自己绝不可掉以轻心。双方第一回过招如下：

英文正文

Dan: Id like to get the ball rolling by talking about prices.

1

Robert: Shoot. Id be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Dan: Your products are very good. But Im a little worried about the prices youre asking.

Robert: You think we should be asking for more?

2

Dan: Thats not exactly what I had in mind. I know your research costs are high, but what Id like is a 25% discount.

Robert: That seems to be a little high, Mr. Smith. I dont know how we can make a profit with those numbers.

Dan: Please, Robert, call me Dan. Well, if we promise future business -- volume sales that will slash your costs for making the Exec-U-Ciser, right?

3

Robert: Yes, but its hard to see how you can place such large orders. How could you turn over so many? Wed need a guarantee of future business, not just a promise.

Dan: We said we wanted 1000 pieces over a six month period. What if we place orders for twelve months, with a guarantee?

4