Working With 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 specific salesman will usually be assigned to a property to be sure that they have everything that is needed. Most businesses will have several salesmen calling on them, all vying for the sales that will be generated from the needs of the outlet. Each salesman will become familiar with the operation so as to effectively supply them with quality items at a reasonable price. Purchasing agents, managers and owners will usually take bids from the various companies to ensure the most reasonable costs.

A new or upcoming business may require more attention and one-on-one discussions about equipment requirements and these distributors are only too happy to supply the time and attention necessary to make sure that you will be ready for your grand opening. Many even have designers in their employ who assist in laying out new dining rooms and kitchens.

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 heavy duty appliances vital to the day-to-day operations of food outlets. These can include refrigeration, prep tables, ovens, broilers, fryers, freezers and steamers. These items usually last for years but are high-dollar purchases that will need to be depreciated over time. A good salesperson will familiarize himself with these items as much as he can to provide the necessary information on pricing, warranties and options available.

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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