Installer Support
30 | MARCH 2017
Installer Support
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Avoid the pitfalls of dual sourcing
A lot of installers believe that dual sourcing is the most cost-effective option – but once you’ ve factored in the time and effort involved in liaising with multiple companies, is it really? In the long run, finding one experienced, reliable fabricator that can offer an extensive range of quality products and using them as your one-stop-shop is almost always the better option. Suppliers are likely to look kindly on their most loyal customers, and offer even more exceptional service.
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Get technical support
Whether it’ s a query about glazing options or fitting advice on the job, you need a supplier who’ s there for you when you need them. When you’ re assessing potential fabricators, check to see if they offer technical advice over the phone. It could make all the difference when timings are tight.“ Installers regularly call us with questions about things that could hold up their entire project, but that take us just a few minutes to answer. It’ s so important to have that sort of experience to hand.” Brian Webb, Technical Services Director, Sierra Windows
5 THINGS TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING A SUPPLIER
As every installer knows, it can be a tough market out there. Competition is fierce, customers are demanding, and margins are tight – all of which makes it more important than ever to find the right supplier.
Once, fabricators were just expected to supply – to quote you a price, process your order and provide you with the product. Today, it takes a lot more than that to stand out from the crowd.
The most exceptional examples are part marketing consultancy, part agony aunt, part technical advice service – all-round production partners who become an integral part of your business, and do their utmost to help it grow.
If you’ re on the hunt for an outstanding supplier for your next project, here are the five things you need to be looking for.
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Check their credentials
Working with a long-established supplier lets you benefit from their years if not decades of experience – but pay attention to more than just how long they’ ve been in business. Do your research. Can they offer Secured by Design? BSi accreditation? It’ s not just commercial developers that look for these – consumers are savvier than ever, and don’ t be surprised to find modern homeowners interested in the technical aspects of your product offering, not just how nice your windows, doors and conservatories look.
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A matter of pride
It might sound obvious, but make sure you choose a supplier that cares about quality – your business depends on it. Find a supplier that’ s actively involved in the manufacturing process, one that understands that only perfection will do for your clients. If you’ ve ever been sent a faulty product from a reseller, you’ ll understand the value of being able to talk directly to your manufacturer.
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Ask about marketing
Is the supplier keen to support your business too? Ask if they can provide marketing materials that will help to boost your sales. At the very least you should expect colour swatches, but the best suppliers can even help with website design, brochures and advertising. It makes sense for companies to invest in this, as their business will grow as yours does.
www. sierrawindows. co. uk