Even when players stay within one brand, they are frequently switching to new or improved clubs.

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"Yes, it does matter, because people want choice, " says brand expert Robert Pasikoff of Brand Keys, who also noted that a current law that gives customers the right to keep their phone numbers when switching carriers makes it easier for them to bolt to Verizon or Sprint.

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"Yes, it does matter, because people want choice, " says brand expert Robert Pasikoff of Brand Keys, who also noted that a current law that gives customers the right to keep their phone numbers when switching carriers makes it easier for them to bolt to Verizon or Sprint (nyse: S - news - people ).

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