The Role Of Food Service Equipment Distributors

By Lila Bryant


If you are a manager or owner of a restaurant or other food outlet, you know how important it is to be able to find the right equipment for the business you are in charge of. Food service equipment distributors carry almost anything an outlet could possible require and can be contacted to assist you in your search for all of your restaurant needs.

A distributorship will usually assign a specific person to an account to ensure that this person will get to know your business needs in detail. A long-term relationship is best so ordering becomes a snap. A good salesperson will keep records of all purchases and will be able to find specific items needed quickly and reasonably. He will establish a strong communication link between himself and the purchasing agent or other individual in charge of ordering and buying.

Sales reps would have to pay much more attention to a new or recently re-opened venue to make sure they have all the items they require for the first day. They would be only too happy to order exactly what is needed and to help make sure it is functioning properly. A helpful salesperson would have almost an automatic in if he made himself indispensable when an owner or manager needed them the most.

There are many items that food outlets need both on a one-time or regular basis. A trusted sales representative will have records of your purchases so re-ordering is a snap and warranties can be easily located. He will also be able to alert managers and business owners about rebates and volume specials.

Most companies carry a wide variety of inventory items. These would include large kitchen appliances, lighter equipment, and items used every day. Appliances for a restaurant or food service outlet would include such necessities as ovens, mixers, refrigeration units, freezers, prep tables, carts, broilers, steamers and fryers. A well-educated rep would make himself knowledgeable about the different brands and models available. They should also be familiar with warranties and quick repair information as well as the costs of the various sizes and price levels.

Smaller equipment such as pitchers, glassware, pots, bowls, pans, utensils, sheet pans, chafing dishes, and mop buckets can usually be delivered to customers in one or two days. Special orders such as china, flatware and custom chargers may take four to six weeks to receive. These companies also carry bar equipment such as beer pumps, measured pourers, blenders and mats.

Day-to-day needs may include foil, plastic wrap, lemon wraps, potato wraps, paper and plastic supplies, as well as as Styrofoam containers and to-go cartons. When purchased in bulk, they can be found for very reasonable pricing through these companies.

Most businesses end up with a favored salesperson who knows what is needed before they do. It is still very important to have accounts with several companies to keep the bidding process in effect and pricing at a reasonable level. The company that is the most attentive, provides the highest quality and the best pricing will be the main account of choice.




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