The Art of Creating the Showroom Plan, by Darryl Jones (QuickDrain USA)

In this age of technology and a "right now" atmosphere, the creation of a planned method of attack for the showroom sales staff has become more important than ever. When working with a new designer or contractor, you and your staff should be able to give them a list of requirements of what's expected of both them and yourself. What follows is an example of what someone has used in the past.

 

Welcome! If you are a trade professional first time visitor, here is what to expect when partnering with us!

Partnering with the trade is our focus. This allows us to offer wholesale discounts to the trade and positions us to provide you and your client with information about our product lines and assist you in receiving the best overall value and service when selecting and purchasing materials for your project.

 

Our showroom displays products from around the globe. Most displays feature the latest industry technologies, values and quality available in our market. You are always welcome to browse our showroom and we will gladly assist you with as much information as time will allow.

 

It is appreciated when we can schedule a time to meet with you and/or your client to discuss and demonstrate the value and overall performance of our products. This also allows you to make the most informed decisions relating to your purchase.

 

What is the primary difference between "Wholesale" And "Retail" Sales?
Wholesale refers to the sale of products to a business or trade professional at a discount with the intention to resell it to the general public. The wholesaler establishes discounts based on the relationship with the business or trade professional, the amount of business that they produce and the size of the order.

 

Retail refers to the selling of products to the general public that has the intention to consume or use the product for their own benefit and use. Retail prices are based on the amount that the market will allow.

 

Please contact us to schedule an appointment a few weeks before you are ready to discuss your selection options so that we can set a date and time to meet. Also, please expect that we may need to spend at least a few hours with you in order to completely review product options initially. It is important to make sure products will fit and function properly.

 

What to bring:

Your budget allowance and a set of plans are helpful. If you can, please have "room counts" for your cabinet knobs, towel bars, rings, etc. We also welcome magazine pictures of what your client likes or new products with questions. Due to a lot of "breakables", we don't recommend bringing young children, but they are welcome and we have a play area set aside for their use.

 

What to expect to cover:

Unique features and new technologies for tubs, faucets, sinks, toilets and curbless showers, whole house water filtration systems, steam units, ironing centers, medicine cabinets, and make-up mirrors. Also, a possible flat-screen television behind your mirror, so you can catch the news while getting prepped in the morning. You can also try high-tech appliances, such as a self-cleaning toilet that can be controlled with a wireless remote. And of course, door, bath, cabinet and closet hardware.

 

Count on us:

We will record the product information during our meeting and provide you with a spread sheet that includes information about the products discussed. We can also prepare product specifications for you on request. Additionally, we have the ability to provide you with field service and support for your project.

 

Before placing your first order, we will discuss establishing your account, credit, payment options, special order and sign off procedure's, order fax confirmation, freight charges, return policy, and delivery policies.

 

Having a plan will help ensure that there is little to no wasted time and that the project will stay on schedule. Indeed, a schedule will add value to your efforts. Don't assume that designers or contractors know the inner workings of a showroom (this is not a course that they take when they get their license). Split large projects into manageable time allotments that can be done over multiple meetings. Most clients have a "fuel gauge" and will tire as the hour's progress. Separate what's important from what isn't at this time (i.e. rough-In valves before door hardware). Have a check list that you can measure against - checked boxes mean progress and a sign of completion.