Buying the correct equipment is extremely important to the success of any business, and in
the bakery trade it is even more relevant.
In a bakery having good equipment that is supported well by the manufacturer is essential
as without equipment working you are regrettably out of business. This is the first
consideration when making your purchase.
After
Sales Service
After
Sales Support
Good Negotiation
Good Times
to Buy
After
Sales Service
Does the company you intend purchasing from have 24-hour service and are you covered out
of hours during your warranty period, which should be 12 months. Those not offering parts
& labour 24 hours during the warranty period should be far, far cheaper as the labour
during the night is usually the largest expense.
If not provided by the manufacturer then you will get to pay for this labour as that was
the terms in which you made your original purchase.
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After
Sales Support
Some companies offer breakdown loan equipment to customers, which may save you thousands
in turnover as equipment gets older. Usually companies offering this service do so for
loyal customers who purchase their equipment and it is confined to the particular piece
you brought from them so do not believe they will necessary loan equipment every time you
have a major breakdown with equipment you brought from alternate suppliers in the past.
Customer loyalty appears to have a bearing on loan equipment with most companies who offer
this service so it is wise to try and stay loyal to one company rather than shop around
all over the place every time you buy. Check prices by all means, although
after sales service such as loan equipment comes with a high cost for those who offer it
so this needs to be taken into account. Ask yourself if you can afford at some later date
to lose a day or two of your turnover as a result of a machinery breakdown.
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Good Negotiation
Never start believing a good product is the cheapest. But on the other hand don't think
the most expensive will be the best neither. Compare well known brands and expect to pay
around the same providing all he back up and support is equal.
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Good Times
to Buy
With two major exhibitions this year (Brisbane & Melbourne) it is worth a visit, as most bakery
suppliers will offer specials and discounts and at times bigger trade in deals for
exhibition buyers. It is always worth taking information such as age, make, and condition
of your existing equipment with you as some brands are worth more than others do and are
more sort after by second hand dealers.
Most importantly, to get the best prices at an exhibition then make a decision to buy
before you go and then convey this to the various suppliers you wish to deal with.
Remember that these people are professionals and can pick a tyre kicker as they deal with
them every day of the week. If you just wish to look at new technology then just say so.
But if you're a genuine buyer then they will do the best to sell you their product and
will negotiate hard and fast to do so.
One final thing. take along a chequebook as this establishes you as a genuine buyer right
from the beginning. Money gets most peoples attention - Including bakery suppliers,
importers and manufacturers.
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