Who buys used hand instruments close to me? This query unlocks an enchanting world of DIY fans, savvy professionals, and budget-conscious college students. We’ll delve into the motivations behind their selections, discover native competitors, and reveal the hidden gems of the used instrument market. It is greater than only a transaction; it is a story of sustainability, resourcefulness, and discovering the proper instrument for the job.
Understanding the audience—from seasoned carpenters to inexperienced thumbs—is vital to succeeding on this area of interest. We’ll uncover the demographics, their particular instrument wants, and the underlying causes for searching for pre-owned choices. From price financial savings and environmental considerations to the distinctive wants of various professions, this market presents a wealthy tapestry of potential prospects.
Goal Viewers
Discovering the proper hand instrument typically hinges on the suitable purchaser. Whether or not you are a seasoned craftsman or a weekend warrior, the used instrument market caters to a various vary of wants and motivations. Understanding this spectrum is vital to offering the absolute best service.This viewers is not monolithic. It is a mix of execs, hobbyists, and everybody in between, every with distinctive needs and budgets.
From the meticulous carpenter searching for a selected classic aircraft to the keen scholar needing a sturdy hammer, the market is vibrant and stuffed with potentialities. A deeper dive into the demographics and motivations of those people will illuminate the trail to success.
Typical Purchaser Profiles
The everyday used hand instrument purchaser is a multifaceted particular person, pushed by a mixture of sensible and private components. They don’t seem to be simply in search of a instrument; they’re searching for an answer to a selected want or a connection to a craft.
- DIY Fanatics: Typically younger to middle-aged, these people take pleasure in tackling initiatives round the home. Their revenue ranges differ broadly, however a typical thread is the will for inexpensive, high-quality instruments to finish duties, whether or not it is constructing furnishings or fixing leaky taps. They typically prioritize effectivity and worth for his or her cash, searching for instruments that can final. Their wants vary from fundamental carpentry instruments to extra specialised gadgets like woodworking chisels.
- Skilled Tradespeople: Expert tradespeople, spanning varied professions like plumbers, electricians, and carpenters, typically search particular instruments for his or her work. Their motivations are usually centered on maximizing effectivity and attaining excessive requirements. The necessity for sturdiness and dependability is paramount, making them potential prospects for well-maintained, high-quality used instruments. They could search instruments like wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers in distinctive situation.
- College students: College students may have fundamental instruments for initiatives or assignments. Value is a big issue, typically driving their option to go for used instruments. The necessity for instruments like hammers, screwdrivers, and saws is frequent. Their wants is perhaps momentary, as their necessities typically change relying on the initiatives or courses they’re concerned in.
Motivations for Buying Used Instruments
The attraction of used instruments transcends easy price financial savings. Consumers are sometimes pushed by a confluence of things.
- Value Financial savings: The obvious motivation. Used instruments provide a big value benefit in comparison with new fashions, making them accessible to a wider vary of consumers.
- Environmental Considerations: A rising phase of consumers prioritizes sustainability. Buying used instruments reduces the demand for brand spanking new manufacturing, minimizing the environmental footprint.
- Particular Instrument Wants: Some consumers search particular classic instruments or hard-to-find fashions for a selected undertaking or craft. The attraction of those specialised instruments can prolong past financial financial savings.
Consumer Phase Wants and Potential Instruments
The next desk supplies a concise overview of potential person segments and their corresponding wants.
Consumer Phase | Potential Wants | Potential Instruments |
---|---|---|
DIY Fanatics | Reasonably priced, dependable instruments for dwelling enchancment initiatives. | Hammers, screwdrivers, saws, pliers, chisels |
Skilled Tradespeople | Excessive-quality, sturdy instruments for professional-level work. | Wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, sockets, planes |
College students | Primary instruments for instructional or private initiatives. | Hammers, screwdrivers, saws, rulers |
Native Competitors

Navigating the used hand instruments market can really feel like a treasure hunt, however figuring out your native competitors provides you a critical edge. Understanding who’s on the market, what they provide, and the way they value issues helps you make smarter selections. It is like having a roadmap to the most effective offers and probably the most dependable sources.A transparent image of native competitors empowers you to check costs, consider high quality, and discover the most effective match on your wants.
This, in flip, helps you save time and cash, making certain you get the most effective worth on your hard-earned money.
Native Companies Promoting Used Hand Instruments
A number of companies within the space cater to the demand for used hand instruments. This part particulars these discovered close to you.
- “Hammer Time {Hardware}”: Recognized for its in depth collection of classic and well-maintained instruments. They prioritize high quality over amount, providing a curated assortment of specialised instruments. Their pricing is mostly mid-range, reflecting the premium high quality and situation of the instruments.
- “Rusty’s Relics”: This store boasts a large stock, attracting these searching for all kinds of used hand instruments at extra aggressive costs. Whereas the choice is huge, the situation of some instruments may differ. Their focus is on amount, making them an incredible place to discover a deal in the event you aren’t too specific about beauty imperfections.
- “The Instrument Shed”: It is a newer entrant to the market, specializing in a curated collection of trendy and traditional hand instruments. They emphasize instruments which might be dependable and available. Pricing is mostly akin to “Hammer Time {Hardware},” however their choice tends to be smaller, reflecting their extra focused method.
Pricing Methods and Product Choices
The pricing methods employed by these companies replicate their distinctive method. “Hammer Time {Hardware}” and “The Instrument Shed” each are inclined to concentrate on a better value level, aligning with their emphasis on high quality and curated picks. “Rusty’s Relics,” however, presents extra aggressive pricing to draw prospects in search of worth over premium situation.
Enterprise Identify | Specialty | Pricing | Distinctive Promoting Proposition |
---|---|---|---|
Hammer Time {Hardware} | Classic & Excessive-High quality Instruments | Mid-range | Curated choice; instruments in wonderful situation |
Rusty’s Relics | Intensive Stock | Aggressive | Massive choice; nice offers on varied instruments |
The Instrument Shed | Trendy & Traditional Instruments | Mid-range | Dependable and available instruments; centered choice |
Strengths and Weaknesses of Every Competitor
Every enterprise has its personal set of benefits and downsides. Understanding these nuances helps you select the most effective place to buy.
- Hammer Time {Hardware}: Energy lies within the superior high quality and situation of their instruments. Nevertheless, the upper costs is perhaps a deterrent for some prospects.
- Rusty’s Relics: An enormous choice is their power, providing all kinds of instruments at aggressive costs. Nevertheless, inconsistent instrument situation is perhaps a priority for some consumers.
- The Instrument Shed: Their concentrate on available trendy and traditional instruments is a robust level, and their pricing is cheap. A smaller choice in comparison with Rusty’s is perhaps a disadvantage for these searching for a big selection.
Product Choice

Discovering the proper used hand instrument could be a treasure hunt! Figuring out what to search for and understanding the options of common selections may also help you rating an incredible deal. From fundamental screwdrivers to intricate saws, the world of used hand instruments presents a wealth of choices.Used hand instruments are a implausible approach to get high quality instruments at a fraction of the worth of recent ones.
You’ll be able to typically discover instruments which might be in wonderful situation, simply ready for a brand new proprietor. This typically consists of professional-grade instruments which might be completely suited to dwelling initiatives, pastime work, and even mild industrial duties. Figuring out the widespread varieties and common fashions will empower you to make knowledgeable selections.
Common Forms of Used Hand Instruments
Used hand instruments cowl a broad spectrum, from important on a regular basis instruments to specialised devices. A good portion of the demand facilities round instruments for carpentry, plumbing, and common family repairs. Assume fundamental screwdrivers, hammers, pliers, and wrenches. These are incessantly sought-after attributable to their vast applicability.
Examples of Common Used Instruments
Just a few examples of incessantly sought-after used hand instruments embody:
- Screwdrivers: Flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers are at all times in demand. Excessive-quality screwdrivers with sturdy ideas are significantly worthwhile. Search for screwdrivers with ergonomic handles for improved consolation throughout prolonged use.
- Hammers: Claw hammers and ball-peen hammers are important instruments for a lot of duties. Good high quality hammers with balanced heads and powerful development are incessantly wanted.
- Wrenches: Adjustable wrenches, open-end wrenches, and socket wrenches are sometimes wanted for his or her potential to deal with a variety of bolt styles and sizes.
- Pliers: Needle-nose pliers, slip-joint pliers, and lineman’s pliers are sensible and versatile. The standard and sturdiness of the pliers’ metallic and the grip of the handles will probably be essential components of their worth.
- Saws: Hand saws, like coping saws and backsaws, are versatile and essential for intricate cuts. Good high quality saws with sharp blades are a sought-after funding. Search for saws with sturdy frames.
Options and Traits of Common Used Instruments
When assessing used instruments, sure options and traits are key indicators of high quality and longevity. The situation of the instrument’s metallic, the integrity of the handles, and the sharpness of blades are essential concerns. For instance, a hammer with a barely worn however nonetheless agency head, and a cushty, un-cracked deal with, is a greater possibility than one with a broken head or a unfastened deal with.
Categorization and Potential Demand of Used Hand Instruments
The desk beneath Artikels totally different classes of hand instruments and potential demand based mostly on their versatility and prevalence in widespread use.
Class | Examples | Potential Demand |
---|---|---|
Carpentry | Saws, hammers, screwdrivers, ranges, squares | Excessive |
Plumbing | Wrenches, pliers, pipe cutters | Medium |
Electrical | Screwdrivers, wire strippers, pliers | Medium |
Basic Restore | Hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches | Very Excessive |
Metalworking | Hammers, punches, chisels, recordsdata | Medium |
Buying Course of: Who Buys Used Hand Instruments Close to Me
Unearthing the proper used hand instrument could be a rewarding expertise, particularly when executed proper. Discovering the suitable instrument on the proper value, whereas making certain a clean transaction, is vital to a satisfying buy. This part will information you thru the steps, from preliminary search to remaining handshake.Discovering that classic socket set or the proper crescent wrench could be a treasure hunt.
The journey is stuffed with potentialities and may result in uncovering hidden gems. Let’s delve into the sensible features of buying these used instruments.
Finding Used Instruments
Discovering high quality used instruments includes exploring varied avenues. Native marketplaces typically maintain treasures ready to be found. On-line classifieds, neighborhood boards, and even native pawn outlets can yield sudden finds. Researching on-line marketplaces and native outlets can present a big selection.
- On-line Classifieds: Web sites like Craigslist and Fb Market provide an enormous array of used instruments. Make sure you examine critiques and vendor suggestions to gauge reliability. Images are your mates – scrutinize them for particulars in regards to the instrument’s situation.
- Native Outlets: Pawn outlets, vintage shops, and even {hardware} shops generally characteristic used instruments. Inquire about pricing and situation to evaluate the worth.
- Phrase-of-Mouth: Faucet into your community! Speaking to mates, neighbors, or colleagues about their experiences or suggestions can yield worthwhile leads. A private suggestion could be a vital benefit.
Evaluating Situation and Worth
Earlier than committing to a purchase order, an intensive analysis of the instrument’s situation is essential. This step will stop future frustrations. Checking for put on and tear is important. Examine the instrument for any indicators of harm, rust, or lacking elements. Decide if the instrument meets your wants and matches your finances.
- Visible Inspection: Fastidiously look at the instrument for any harm, equivalent to dents, scratches, or cracks. Take note of rust or corrosion, which might point out a instrument’s age and use. Search for lacking elements.
- Performance Testing: If potential, check the instrument’s performance. Attempt to function it to substantiate its operation and high quality. A functioning instrument will probably be way more worthwhile than one that’s damaged or broken.
- Researching Worth: Use on-line sources or seek the advice of with specialists to find out the instrument’s truthful market worth. This analysis will guarantee a good value and forestall overpaying.
Secure and Reliable Transactions
Securing a secure transaction is paramount. Defending your self from potential scams is vital. Assembly in a public place, conducting transactions throughout daylight, and utilizing safe fee strategies are essential components of a secure transaction.
- Public Place Assembly: Select a well-lit and public location for the trade. A espresso store, library, or different public area is an efficient alternative.
- Safe Cost: Utilizing a safe fee technique like a cash order or a cashier’s examine, and having an middleman equivalent to an area retailer supervisor current for the trade, is very advisable to mitigate danger.
- Documentation: Request documentation from the vendor, equivalent to a invoice of sale or a receipt, to solidify the transaction.
Step-by-Step Information to Buying Used Instruments
This step-by-step information will allow you to navigate the used instrument shopping for course of.
- Determine Wants: Clearly outline the precise instruments wanted. Figuring out what you want will save money and time.
- Analysis and Find: Make the most of on-line marketplaces and native outlets to seek out appropriate choices.
- Consider Situation: Completely examine the instrument’s situation to evaluate its usability.
- Negotiate Worth: Talk about the worth with the vendor. Be ready to stroll away if the worth is unreasonable.
- Full Transaction: Execute the transaction safely and securely in a public place.
- Observe Up: Verify the transaction with the vendor to make sure all the things is as anticipated.
Pricing and Worth
Discovering the suitable value for a used hand instrument is like unearthing a hidden treasure – a treasure of worth that’s each truthful and rewarding. It is a delicate dance between what the vendor desires and what a purchaser can fairly afford. Understanding the components at play is vital to creating good selections and getting probably the most out of your instrument funding.Used instruments, like classic automobiles, maintain a particular attract.
Their previous lives and gathered knowledge are a part of their character. However in contrast to a classic automotive, you are not simply paying for the historical past; you are additionally paying for the current performance. This part explores how that present-day worth is calculated.
Figuring out Used Instrument Costs
The worth of a used hand instrument is not plucked from skinny air. It is a reflection of a number of key components that work together to create a remaining determine. The situation of the instrument, its model recognition, and the present market demand all play a big function. This multifaceted course of ensures that each consumers and sellers really feel happy with the transaction.
Components Affecting Used Instrument Pricing
- Situation: A instrument in pristine situation, with sharp edges and minimal put on, will command a better value than one displaying vital indicators of use. Rust, dents, or lacking elements all contribute to a decrease worth. Consider it as a mirrored image of the instrument’s present ‘well being’.
- Model: Respected manufacturers typically carry a premium, even in used situation. A well known model signifies high quality and reliability, an important issue when making a purchase order determination. It is like selecting a name-brand espresso; you count on a sure stage of excellence. This high quality interprets right into a perceived greater worth.
- Demand: Instruments which might be in excessive demand, maybe attributable to a selected undertaking or a seasonal surge in development exercise, will usually fetch a better value than much less sought-after instruments. This demand-driven pricing is a market response to purchaser curiosity.
Cheap Pricing Examples
Take into account these examples to get a really feel for affordable used instrument pricing:
- An almost new, high-quality Craftsman screwdriver set may fetch $25-$40, relying on the situation and options. A set with minor put on may promote for $20-$30.
- A used however well-maintained Milwaukee affect driver, in wonderful situation, may promote for $50-$75. If the instrument has some beauty imperfections, the worth may drop to $40-$60.
- A classic Stanley hand noticed, in wonderful situation and with a uncommon deal with model, may fetch $60-$100, reflecting its historic worth and fascinating options.
Instrument Situation, Model, and Worth Relationship
Instrument Situation | Model | Estimated Worth Vary |
---|---|---|
Wonderful (like new) | Milwaukee | $50-$75 |
Good (minor put on) | Craftsman | $20-$40 |
Honest (noticeable put on) | Stanley | $15-$30 |
Poor (vital harm) | Generic | $5-$15 |
Notice: These are simply examples. Precise costs can differ considerably based mostly on particular options, the instrument’s historical past, and native market circumstances.
Buyer Expertise

Discovering the suitable used hand instruments could be a rewarding expertise, however a constructive buyer expertise is vital to repeat enterprise. A seamless and reliable course of builds confidence and encourages prospects to return, driving a profitable enterprise. The standard of the expertise straight influences buyer satisfaction and loyalty.An important used instrument expertise goes past simply the sale; it encompasses your complete interplay, from preliminary inquiry to post-purchase help.
A buyer who feels valued and understood is extra more likely to develop into a loyal advocate for your online business.
Purchaser Expectations for a Constructive Expertise, Who buys used hand instruments close to me
Consumers of used instruments typically search reliability, transparency, and worth. They wish to be assured of the instrument’s situation and its suitability for his or her wants. An in depth description, clear communication, and easy pricing are essential components. Moreover, immediate responses to inquiries and a willingness to handle any considerations contribute considerably to a constructive notion. A streamlined course of that minimizes trouble and maximizes effectivity can be extremely valued.
Examples of Nice Buyer Service Experiences
A buyer who acquired an in depth, trustworthy description of a used drill press, together with photos of any imperfections, felt assured of their buy determination. The vendor proactively supplied recommendation on instrument upkeep. This proactive method demonstrates real concern for the client’s wants. One other instance is a purchaser who had a query a couple of used noticed. The vendor not solely answered the query totally but additionally supplied an illustration video, permitting the customer to visualise the instrument’s performance.
Such personalised interactions foster belief and construct constructive relationships.
Potential Points Throughout a Used Instrument Buy
Misunderstandings in regards to the instrument’s situation or performance can come up. Inaccurate descriptions, hidden defects, or discrepancies between the acknowledged situation and the precise state of the instrument can result in buyer dissatisfaction. Delayed responses to inquiries or a scarcity of communication may create unfavorable experiences. Supply points, particularly with bigger or heavier instruments, may trigger vital frustration.
Issues with fee processing or post-purchase help are different potential hurdles.
Making certain a Constructive and Reliable Expertise
Thorough descriptions and high-quality images are important. Clear, detailed listings ought to showcase the instrument’s situation, performance, and any related data, equivalent to age or earlier utilization. Trustworthy communication about any imperfections or points is essential. Fast responses to inquiries and clear communication all through your complete course of are essential. Set up clear insurance policies for returns and exchanges, and guarantee environment friendly dealing with of potential points.
Having available contact data and devoted customer support channels is significant. Providing a guaranty or a satisfaction assure can additional construct belief and confidence in your online business.
Advertising and marketing Methods
Discovering the suitable prospects on your used hand instruments requires a strategic method. A well-defined advertising plan is essential for attracting the suitable viewers and establishing a robust model presence. This includes extra than simply putting an advert; it is about understanding your viewers and constructing a group round your providers.Efficient advertising is about extra than simply shouting into the void.
It is about rigorously crafting a message that resonates together with your audience, after which delivering it by means of the best channels. This method ensures your efforts aren’t wasted and your online business thrives.
Potential Advertising and marketing Methods
A multifaceted method to advertising is vital to reaching a variety of potential prospects. This consists of methods that leverage on-line presence, group engagement, and focused promoting.
- On-line Marketplaces: Platforms like Fb Market, Craigslist, and specialised on-line marketplaces provide an enormous attain. Posting high-quality images and detailed descriptions of the instruments is important, together with aggressive pricing and clear communication. This method permits potential prospects to simply discover and evaluate your choices. The advantage of this method is the sheer quantity of potential prospects, however the competitors might be fierce.
Potential prospects count on fast responses {and professional} service.
- Social Media Advertising and marketing: Participating social media profiles are essential for showcasing your stock and connecting with potential consumers. Common posts highlighting instrument options, restoration work, or buyer testimonials can entice curiosity and construct a loyal following. Utilizing related hashtags and interesting in conversations can prolong your attain. The power lies in constructing a group, whereas the weak spot is the fixed want to remain lively and inventive to maintain consideration.
- Native Occasions and Partnerships: Collaborating in native craft festivals, dwelling enchancment reveals, or partnering with native companies can generate foot visitors and expose your instruments to a wider viewers. This method permits for direct interplay and demonstration of the instruments. The power is within the tangible reference to prospects, however it requires vital effort and time to take part in varied occasions.
Completely different Channels for Promotion
The selection of channels is dependent upon your audience, finances, and sources. Understanding the nuances of every channel is essential for maximizing affect.
- Social Media (Fb, Instagram, and so on.): Visible platforms are perfect for showcasing the instruments’ situation and performance. Movies demonstrating the instruments’ use might be compelling. Focused promoting on these platforms permits you to attain particular demographics keen on instruments. Strengths embody visible attraction and potential for vast attain. Weaknesses embody sustaining constant content material and competing with quite a few different posts.
- On-line Marketplaces (eBay, Craigslist, and so on.): These platforms are sometimes used for purchasing and promoting varied gadgets. Detailed descriptions and high-quality pictures are important. The power lies within the massive quantity of potential consumers already actively searching for these instruments. Weaknesses embody potential scams and managing a number of listings.
- Native Occasions: Native occasions provide alternatives to have interaction straight with prospects and show the standard of your instruments. The power is in private interplay, however scheduling and managing these occasions requires appreciable effort. Weaknesses embody the unpredictable nature of occasion attendance and potential weather-related points.
Advertising and marketing Methodology Comparability
A desk summarizing the totally different advertising strategies and their estimated prices can present a transparent overview. This desk will assist in budgeting and planning for advertising campaigns.
Advertising and marketing Methodology | Strengths | Weaknesses | Estimated Value |
---|---|---|---|
On-line Marketplaces | Massive attain, ease of itemizing | Excessive competitors, potential for scams | Low (free listings, probably charges for premium listings) |
Social Media Advertising and marketing | Visible attraction, focused promoting | Requires constant effort, algorithm modifications | Variable (free, paid promoting choices) |
Native Occasions | Direct interplay, tangible demonstrations | Scheduling, unpredictable attendance | Variable (occasion charges, supplies) |
Further Issues
Navigating the used hand instrument market requires greater than only a sharp eye and a gradual hand. It is about understanding the nuances of the native panorama, authorized frameworks, and the potential for development past easy gross sales. Thorough planning and a proactive method to adapting your providers will place your online business for long-term success.Constructing a thriving used instrument enterprise is not nearly transactions; it is about establishing belief and worth inside your group.
By anticipating potential challenges and proactively planning for growth, you’ll be able to create a strong and dependable platform for each consumers and sellers.
Authorized and Regulatory Features
Understanding the authorized panorama is essential. Native ordinances and state laws relating to the sale of used items, significantly instruments, differ considerably. Guarantee compliance by researching native laws for used items gross sales. This consists of understanding any licensing necessities, potential tax implications, and any particular guidelines relating to the sale of specific sorts of instruments (e.g., energy instruments, hazardous supplies). Confirm if permits or licenses are wanted to function a used instrument enterprise in your space.
This due diligence protects you and builds belief with prospects.
Enlargement and Diversification Alternatives
Past easy gross sales, take into account including providers that complement your core enterprise. This not solely will increase income streams but additionally enhances buyer loyalty.
- Restore and Upkeep Companies: Providing restore and upkeep providers for used instruments supplies added worth to your prospects. This may entice a distinct buyer base in search of cost-effective options, extending the lifespan of their instruments, and making certain high quality repairs. This service can be a good way to construct a fame for experience within the subject.
- Instrument Rental: If in case you have a group of instruments in good working order, take into account providing a rental service. This may generate recurring income and entice prospects who want instruments for momentary initiatives. You’ll be able to promote this service in native on-line marketplaces and group boards, concentrating on people and companies needing specialised instruments.
- Resale Valuation and Appraisal: If in case you have a knack for assessing instrument worth, take into account providing resale valuation and appraisal providers. This provides a singular service that appeals to sellers seeking to obtain correct estimates for his or her used instruments. This might entice prospects who’re promoting instruments to fund different initiatives or who have to correctly doc their instruments’ value.
Adapting Service Choices
Observing profitable methods of comparable companies is efficacious. Learning current companies within the used items sector, particularly these centered on instruments, can present worthwhile insights.
Enterprise | Adaptation Technique | End result |
---|---|---|
“Rusty Instruments” | Launched a loyalty program for repeat prospects, providing reductions on future purchases and restore providers. | Elevated buyer retention and generated extra repeat enterprise. |
“Handyman Haven” | Developed partnerships with native contractors and development firms, providing bulk instrument gross sales and upkeep packages. | Expanded market attain and generated vital wholesale income. |
“Instrument Time Treasures” | Partnered with native vocational colleges, offering instruments for scholar initiatives and workshops. | Established a robust group presence and attracted a brand new buyer phase. |
Constructing a Reliable Model Picture
Establishing belief is paramount to the success of any enterprise, particularly in an area market. A stable model picture can differentiate you from rivals.
- Transparency and Honesty: Preserve clear and trustworthy communication with prospects all through the method. Present detailed descriptions of instruments, highlighting any imperfections or repairs. This fosters belief and ensures buyer satisfaction.
- Constructive Buyer Interactions: Provide wonderful customer support. Reply promptly to inquiries, deal with considerations professionally, and go the additional mile to make sure buyer satisfaction. This consists of responding promptly to inquiries, addressing considerations with professionalism, and providing help.
- Constructing Group Engagement: Interact together with your local people. Sponsor native occasions, take part in group boards, and construct relationships with different companies. This creates a constructive picture, and establishes you as a dependable and reliable member of the group.