al Supplies of Bridgend
ToolBusiness:Who makes stocking decisions and how important is stock control? Do you see reps or seek out offers and products on your own experience? How important are IT systems in controlling stock?
Joanna Prescott: Items we hold in stock are agreed with the client, then, supplied regularly and constantly. For the client this means no break in production. This also means less time spent on the completion of a project and less money spent over all.
We also provide what we call a ‘single source contract with a difference.’ All agreed line items are kept at prearranged stock levels within CIS premises. We take responsibility for maintaining stock, replenishing stock and performing regular stock checks. This means the client can relax in the knowledge that if or when items are needed it will always be in stock and quickly delivered. Consignment stock not only guarantees no break in production but also reduces customer costs. The customer only pays for stock used, not for all stock kept on premises, making it the most cost effective solution to stocking a project.
With many different clients all wanting similar products it is important we keep track of our stock. We find our IT system, Merlin, is very effective in collating all the necessary information. Without the support of our IT system our job would be extremely difficult.
ToolBusiness: Does CIS use any of the new mechanisms now? in place at THS to put together and publicise special offers?
Joanna Prescott: The THS Media Centre is a new marketing mechanism introduced by THS last year – We use this every quarter to create a mails hot which is sent to both existing and prospective customers and is very useful. It creates a pretty good return on investment.
We have used the joint tendering process in the past, but it’s not something that we would use again.
ToolBusiness: In what ways do you find the THS annual Tool show useful?
Left to right: John Adams, Larry Thom, David Prescott
Joanna Prescott: The THS show is extremely valuable as you get to meet suppliers and members alike to discuss things that you would not usually get the opportunity to. You can bounce ideas around with other members and having the supplier representatives all together really does make it economical when you’re pushed for time every day at your desk.
Left to right: Gareth Williams, Lily Powell, Terry Harvey, John Adams, David Prescott, Andrew Lees, Larry Thom, Joanna Prescott
ToolBusiness: How are you finding the new THS approaches are helping Consolidated Industrial Supplies?
Joanna Prescott: I am wholly supportive of the new THS approaches. I think that the new initiatives are great and I’m looking forward to taking advantage of all of them eventually. I think that the changes were due, although I know that it has caused some controversy. However, without the support of the previous THS team led by John Parkin, I do not think that CIS would be where it is today. We have just added a new addition to our sales team, Gareth Williams and can boast an increased turnover even in the current climate. But, I think this year will be pretty demanding. With the support of THS I’m sure that it will be a success.
ToolBusiness: Thank you Joanna for taking the time out of a packed schedule to answer our questions.
Left to right: Andrew Lees, Terry Harvey
telephone 01444 440188
ToolBUSINESS+HIRE 15
Reply No. 208
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