Thursday, May 29, 2014

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 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.

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.

The companies may also sell simple, day-to-day necessities such as foil, plastic wrap, plastic and paper supplies, trash bags and more. This can be the regular bread and butter for a conscientious representative if is he is paying attention to his accounts and even the small things that they will need to stay in business.

Most food outlets will have a favorite distributor but will also get pricing from a wide variety of companies to assure the best quality for the most reasonable cost. Taking bids is standard in this industry and the outlet with the best reputation, quality and pricing is sure to outshine the others.




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