The Value of Distributors in the Commercial Catering Equipment Market
Distributors do not always have the best name in business, and with the advent of the internet in recent years, it is now easier than ever to get in contact with manufacturers directly, raising the question – why the need for distributors?
This question may be appropriate to pose for some industries, but in the world of commercial catering equipment and supply, distributors are increasingly being recognised by caterers for their service levels and overall value over that available directly from manufacturers. Distributors are even rivalling manufacturers on price the buying power distributors have on high value commercial catering equipment can often make it cheaper to purchase catering equipment through a distributor rather than going directly to the manufacturer.
Gerard Gamble, chairman of the Catering Equipment Distributors Association comments that: "Caterers should remember they are not just buying boxes. They may be able to buy cheaper, but they need the comfort of knowing they will be looked after when the installation is complete. Getting the best deal doesn't necessarily mean getting the cheapest deal, it means getting the best value."
Caterware's equipment maintenance and repair contracts offer an invaluable support service for caterers.
"Whilst the products we supply are of an exceptionally high quality and standard and we do not expect regular breakdowns, the fact is that in an industry that involves as frequent and high intensity usage of equipment as the catering industry, it is inevitable that repairs will be required at some stage", comments Mark Drazen, Managing Director of Caterware.
"Because we want the repeat business of caterers and hospitality clients, the customer service element of our offering is vital. We definitely offer our clients and customers added value – on many levels – over that they would get from a manufacturer".
For more information on Caterware's commercial catering equipment supplies or service and maintenance contracts, phone 01253 760777 or email us.
