We wanted to introduce the Canson range of papers to our shop. We called to request an order form – knowing the product well from past experience. They refused to send it to us, preferring to have a sales rep visit. We could not persuade them that we just wanted to place an order. We are cutting down on the time reps spend in our shop – newsagent suppliers need to understand that how we buy has changed. Canson’s stubbornness is their loss.
I too am extremely demanding when it comes to who and when I will meet reps. Time is money and I do not wish to waste such a precious commodity on shooting the breeze with reps who drop in out of the blue. We will not meet with reps unless they have made an appointment and that can only be on a Friday afternoon. We now have a good understanding with a select few reps who have demonstrated integrity and an honest interest in developing our business. They can call in at any time do a stock count and place an order without having it checked by our team. They are happy to make the occassional appointment to show us there latest additions to their range.
Canson is one of these few companies that we allow to do this. It is disappointing to think that due to a misunderstanding of your needs they have missed out not only on the opportunity to supply your store, they have also had to suffer negative public comment.
Rowan Higgon
Pakenham News & Tatts Main Street and Pakenham Place Shopping Centre
Rowan,
We explained to Canson that we’re set on thei rproduct and know exactly what we want. They still refused and wanted our time. It’s most frustrating.
mark
We have dealt with Canson for over 14 years and have always found their service and assistance by the Reps to be excellent. I know that some wholesalers do prefer to visit a store when first starting an account to ensure that the potiential new customer is a genuine retail outlet and is in keeping with the image of the product. At the end of the day it is all about developing relationships.