By Carrie Perles, eHow Contributor
Restaurant equipment can be expensive, but it is essential to
running a quality restaurant. Whether you are starting up a restaurant or
replacing outdated equipment, choosing the right supplier will make all the
difference. Negotiating prices and perks with a single supplier simplifies
matters, so if you have several pieces of equipment to buy, consider purchasing
them from the same supplier.
Instructions
Make a list of all of the equipment you will need to run
your restaurant. Categorize your list according to the specialties of most
suppliers (e.g., cleaning equipment, cooking accessories, restaurant
furniture). Be as specific as possible with the items on your list, and include
all quantities.
Find suppliers (also known as
"purveyors" in the restaurant business) by speaking to other
restaurant owners. Although you could search through phone books or spend hours
searching online, the best way to find legitimate and quality purveyors is by
talking to others who use them. Make sure to ask for comparisons between
different purveyors.
Call each purveyor and request that a sales rep be
assigned to you.
Call a meeting with your sales rep. If possible, include
the sales rep's boss in the meeting to make sure that you are all on the same
page. Bring your list from Step 1 to the meeting, and make sure to explain in
detail your restaurant's needs and concerns. Give the sales rep a chance to
respond with what equipment the purveyor can provide you with.
Consider entering a preferred supplier agreement with the
purveyor. In doing this, you will agree to buy certain items from one vendor in
return for low, fixed prices for a high volume of goods. Do not make an
agreement like this until you have met with all possible purveyors.
Compare the purveyors' offers. Consider the size of the
company (larger suppliers ) may be
more flexible, but smaller suppliers
will bend over backward to keep your business), the quality of the products and
the history of the suppliers' service.
Negotiate with the purveyors, if possible, to reach a
mutually agreeable price for the equipment.
Original article: http://www.ehow.com/how_5017687_buy-restaurant-equipment.html
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