Service Depots
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Topic URL: http://www.pestcontrolportal.com/snitz/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=104
Printed on: 17 Oct 2006
Topic:
Topic author: NickA
Subject: Service Depots Food for thought OK America is bigger than UK but so is the competition, but why do our suppliers only have 1 centre.
Replies:
Posted on: 30 Nov 2005 15:10:02
Message:
Why don't we have smaller feeder depots?
If the South East is the biggest Pest Control Market other than Essex why are all other suppliers over 200 miles away?
CLEVELAND � LESCO recently opened its 300th Service Center location in Concord, Calif. It is the 26th Service Center to open in 2005.
LESCO has added 74 locations since 2003. The company intends to increase its store base by 10 to 15 percent annually, up to and beyond 500 locations.
�We look forward to helping more of these businesses grow in the years to come, as we expand into the roughly 50 percent of the market that we have not yet penetrated,� said Jeffrey Rutherford, LESCO president and chief executive officer.
For more information and LESCO locations, call 800-321-5325 or visit the new www.LESCOdirect.com.
Do the Americans look after their customers, or do we get the service we deserve!
Prevention for protection
Reply author: Jonathan Peck
Replied on: 30 Nov 2005 16:10:08
Message:
Nick
The short answer is that if you have two warehouses, you have two stocks to finance, two warehouses to pay for and two sets of staff. Since less than 5% of our turnover is sold over the trade counter, this level of sales would not justify a second or third warehouse.
Distribution in the UK is now so good that it is cheaper to concentrate all the stocks in one warehouse and deliver on a "guaranteed next day basis" when necessary.
The US model would not be viable here in the UK.
Hope this helps.
Best wishes
Jonathan Peck
Reply author: NickA
Replied on: 30 Nov 2005 17:00:37
Message:
Jonathan understand that,making the point that delvery is not always the right approach.
Lesco has the same overheads as have other American distributers.300 service centres and they want to grow, could that be the key the WILL.Having feeder depots might expand business, base for area reps, face to face meetings. Why haven't the Ag boys used same arguement one shop does all.Of cause we could copy ag boys and open depots and sell feed, bait,to public offer them help!
The other point is still valid why so far from the biggest market.If we want to raise profile of Pest Control it is about changing all our perceptions.
Prevention for protection
Reply author: Dusty
Replied on: 30 Nov 2005 20:56:11
Message:
Nick, we have a similar situatioin here. One distributor in each state on the east coast. There are only three major suppliers. All charge a delivery fee outside of the metroplitan area that tacks at least $10 on to every order. Deliveries may take two to three days to rural areas.
I have an arrangement with a local ag supplier who stocks a few of my essentials. I pay a little more for them, but there is some satisfaction in knowing that I will be able to get what I want when I need it.
I think the buying power of Andy's co-operative/conglomerate idea may assist you all to at least the suppliers to waive or negotiate better delivery fees.
Don't feed them, get Rid of them
Reply author: Matt the Rat
Replied on: 30 Nov 2005 23:05:31
Message:
Wise words Nick. Its a shame the two main organisations also feel the need to base themselves a long way from the south, and hold their courses in the midlands. If you live in Cornwall, Derby/Nottingham may as well be Timbucktwo.
Jonathan, no-one is suggesting that you should have a branch in every county which stocks all your products: just a presence and a point of collection would be something. The only chance we get to look at new products is at Pesttech, why not host quarterly meetings? We dont need much, just a chance to get together, have a chat and look at some kit.
Reply author: ben
Replied on: 30 Nov 2005 23:35:34
Message:
if they save so much on only one or two central warehouses why do we have to pay for bloody delivery.
if you can hold and play with things you are more likey to buy them ,its the same old thing if all big companies work from central warehouseing we have no choice we need the stock and they know it the little person will always foot the bill.
ben
you learn as you go
Reply author: Bob Newey
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 09:36:50
Message:
My nearest supplier is about 90 miles away so I would love to have somewhere nearer where I could actually see and feel some of the the products.
But having been in the haulage industry for 30 years I can see the other point of view too. Many companies outside our industry only have one distribution point as well because our nationwide distribution is so good with most products being delivered on a next day basis, and at a reasonable price.
This is partly the reason there are so many trucks on the road and particularly more at night and weekends these days. I can't knock it because it gives me some much needed income at the moment with my driving at weekends although mine is up and down the country mainly for Sainsburys not the parcel carriers!
Ironically (Nick) this express delivery concept is what they've been doing in the USA for years and it's merely spread to here now.
Reply author: NickA
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 10:40:22
Message:
Bob as you know my background includes transport 24 hour delivery.
But until our suppliers start to realise that we too run business's and waiting for a delivery is not always the best way,and when the UK trucking realises that the end user US actually pays for carriage we will continue to have bad service. Just because you specify a before time, you only get your carriage back if they don't deliver on time.Thats some service.
I've said it before why are our Associations in the Midlands Parliament is in London that is where you need to lobby.Edinburgh for the Scots.
I mean years ago BPCA had London office but relocated.I hear Rentokil after 80 years is finally going to have a London Office.
Not saying every thing has got to be based in the South/North/East/West but look at your customer base.
Why haven't our suppliers got regional training centres (joint use)
I'll let others put input in.
Prevention for protection
Reply author: ABPest
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 11:11:15
Message:
Nick, I can't afford to move South, so I'm pleased the main distributor is up here. Come up and join us !! Adrian.
Reply author: NickA
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 11:14:29
Message:
You wouldn't want the competition Adrian!!
Not suggesting they relocate look at demographics.
Prevention for protection
Reply author: massmurderer
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 12:45:22
Message:
Unfortunately as with everything it come's down to how much money the suppliers can grind out of us.What they don't seem to realise is the fact that if they give a little back by allowing us to get a hands on with equipment and not just looking at a picture on a web site they will actually sell more.
It's the kid in the sweet shop syndrome.
After all not everyone has capabillities to store vast amounts of stock and not everyone can wait around for a parcel which will be there sometime.
On another note,NickA,rentokil actually have 5 offices in london and have had for a lot of years.
Reply author: NickA
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 12:51:40
Message:
But aren't they shutting East Grinsted to move to City as head office.
Prevention for protection
Reply author: louise
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 13:02:57
Message:
If there are products/equipment that you would like to see then please contact me and I will arrange for an Area Sales Manager to discuss a visit/demonstration.
Best wishes
Louise
Please note: other suppliers are available, who also have sales managers.
Reply author: massmurderer
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 14:32:38
Message:
NickA i left rentokil early this year but i still keep in contact with some of their staff,none of them have mentioned anything but i'll ask one of them.
Reply author: Editor
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 15:43:24
Message:
In response to the post from Louise:
I would remind users of the T&C; for the forum. Matt had to edit this post for the following reason:
* Aimed to solicit business or advertise products or services
FYI. Here are the forum T&C; again:
If you post on the PCP forum, you agree to be bound by the following terms and conditions:
1. You accept that you are fully responsible for the user account that you have created, security regarding the passwords associated with it and any content or files posted by that user.
2. If you post content which we believe is in violation of these terms and conditions, we reserve the right to modify or delete the material in whole or in part. We may ask you to modify the content. Failure to do so will result in your user account being suspended.
3. All information and content which you place onto this site becomes public domain. Do not place any information or content which you do not wish to become public domain.
4. You agree not to post information or content which is:
� Commercially Sensitive
� Copyright Controlled
� Libellous , Defamatory or Unlawful
� Harassing, abusive, threatening, harmful, profane, sexually orientated, racially offensive or otherwise objectionable
� Aimed to solicit business or advertise products or services
5. If you post material which results in us receiving complaints and/or legal representations from third parties, we will as a matter of policy direct them to you.
6. You are 13 years of age or over.
Editor - www.pestcontrolportal.com
Reply author: NickA
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 16:08:51
Message:
Be easy if we allowed them to put company name on post or profile, then we all would know.
But perhaps our suppliers reps might like to say hello.
Or how about seperate member status for suppliers rather than new,starter etc. Just Supplier but allow full access I am glad to see them posting and taking an interest.That way would not be touting for business as we would know where they coming from.
Keep it user friendly
Welcome Louise.
Prevention for protection
Reply author: Matt the Rat
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 19:21:15
Message:
I did try phoning louise to ask her to change the posting herself, but unfortunately I could'nt get hold of her.
The last thing we want to do is discourage anyone, especially suppliers from interacting with the people in the front line of the industry, but a blatent advertisment for one company will only offend other suppliers (for those who are now thinking that I've plugged Lodi, I didnt. I just found a new product which I had'nt seen before, and wondered if anyone had used it). If anyone else wants to do some moderating, I'll hapily stand aside.
Reply author: NickA
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 19:27:37
Message:
Put another patch on Matt.
I had no problem with Louises Post or your moderation.
We don't want to go down the BPCA route!
Prevention for protection
Reply author: Fenn Man
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 19:39:14
Message:
Seconded!
Reply author: Dusty
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 20:51:37
Message:
Not knocking Louise, but I did wonder why, if pesties are important to their sales figures, why are they (or designated underlings) not already making calls, offering specials, providing demos etc?
Suggests to me that there is a smug complacency, knowing that you will take all the crap that is dished out to you.
Even in Oz with a much larger area to cover, they do get to most areas a couple of times a year. They will usually get a hand full of pesties together, shout them lunch and enlighten them about new products, label changes, give out freebies (caps, pens etc)
Reply author: Bob Newey
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 21:41:22
Message:
I agree about the lack of personal contact from the suppliers (and the lack of discounts etc as well) and I too would love them to have depots around the country within easy reach, but I can appreciate why they don't.
However, if one of them took the plunge and opened up some more then maybe the others would have to follow suit in order to compete. How about putting it to the upper hierarchy Louise !!!
I get round the problem of having to stay in for a delivery by getting them to deliver to the wife's workplace (she has an understanding gaffer)and then she brings the stuff home in her car.
Reply author: ben
Replied on: 01 Dec 2005 23:33:26
Message:
being new to the job i would like to know if it is a view from a supplier i was reading or from one of the small pest controlers ,as this makes a diffence to opinions.most of you guys out there have been in the job for years and know people by name us new boys don,t, is this site mainly for smaller companies ie;one man bands or is it now becoming bigger then that and if so should some of the rules be reviewed.
ben
you learn as you go
Reply author: Fenn Man
Replied on: 02 Dec 2005 01:36:52
Message:
quote:
Originally posted by andyb
I've never met or even had a phone call from the biggest suppliers local sales manager.
Sorry. I couldn't live with myself if I let that one go by. I owe them this:
When I was still in the throes of trying to get body and soul, collectively, to a town west of Leeds (Christ, I'm starting to feel the Other Place sense of a Big Stick here already!
) for Training, I just dug myself into all sorts of troubles. I was just getting no where. So, one day I poured my heart out to Lisa and she said she'd have a word with Peter.Lads; The man was GOD! He waved a magick wand and made everything good for me. Situation Sorted!
I'd never Dreamed, let alone dared ever Expect such 'Fast Track / Red Carpet' type treatment - I've hardly proven their biggest customer, after all! But that's what he seemed to lay on for me. I'll never forget what he did for me. (Even if I DID forget which f**king day it was I was supposed to be there!!!! 
)What else can I say? Andy; If ye need them, mate? Ask. I'd like to think that - like me - ye may be pleasantly Amazed at how hard they Do Listen
Reply author: NickA
Replied on: 02 Dec 2005 09:48:05
Message:
Ben,I'm a sole trader,made it a point to get to know people.Attend Pest Tech(1st Wednesday in November every year) and Pest Ex every 2 years.If you want to attend easy enough to make time.
Try to e mail, phone obviously some people don't always reply or answer(if you read posts you'll see who).
Like to think that those who have asked for help, have had it.
But it gets you known I have people I ask questions too.
So Ben when you place an order ask them how they are etc.
Killgerm & Barrettine I have found friendly,nothing against the others Industrials Bruce always chats with me.Paragon have been helpful in past on EFK training manuals.
Prevention for protection
Reply author: ABPest
Replied on: 02 Dec 2005 10:26:31
Message:
I would agree with Nick. Louise has actually posted a solution to the problems raised above. The problem of not being able to see equipment can be resolved by contacting an area sales manager. Shame this helpful advice conflicts with commercialism! There must be a way around this situation. Adrian.
Reply author: Editor
Replied on: 02 Dec 2005 13:52:36
Message:
>Shame this helpful advice conflicts with commercialism!
It is a difficult one, I know. One the BBC wrestles with all the time.
Andy B put it well in the Moderators Wanted thread:
"Editor. Just set the rules and we will stick to them. ie.
No slagging off companies.
No advertising
Nothing sexual or racist. etc."
Just common sense really. It wouldnt be appropriate for any Pest Controllers to go setting up appointments with customers here - im sure that would irritate more than a few of you!
As I've mentioned before - theres an email function built in to the forum. If anyone needs to talk business, use that.
Editor - www.pestcontrolportal.com
Reply author: ABPest
Replied on: 02 Dec 2005 15:29:33
Message:
Thats an interesting comparison Phil, the BBC is VERY commercialised, many businesses pay to have their products on display in programs. Louise wasn't actually selling any thing outwardly, and the follow up editing pointed out other companies have sales managers. It is a difficult subject and another example is when some one from a supplier/manufacturer posts an email, when purely by making that post they could be accused of advertising!! ( if you get my drift).
I like this site, it reminds me of how the BPCA forum used to be, and I would hate to see the same problems here. I did like Nick's idea of having separate headings for those involved in the commercial side. But then again we are all in it for "commercialism" aren't we? ( Making a living! ). Interesting debate! Adrian.
Reply author: NickA
Replied on: 02 Dec 2005 17:50:59
Message:
Adrian, If I needed to try some bait that was new to market and liked it I would tell all and sundry.
Same if I had a problem with Phostoxin or Talunex and John or Helen came back to me via forum I would be pleased that others could learn.
Phil please think about a business user,some of the messageboards Stateside have their suppliers joining in and everyone knows where there coming from.
So Louise could be Killgerm Chick(Only joking),Lets not get bogged down, Matt was right to act,but I saw nothing wrong with the post.
Same as consortium thread, it was there for all to see.
Prevention for protection
Reply author: Matt the Rat
Replied on: 02 Dec 2005 18:30:29
Message:
If louise had just said "if you want to see any products, just contact your supplier and ask them to send a rep" I would not have had a problem. The post included a direct dial telephone number and website address, which in my opinion made it an advertisment. If suppliers want to advertise on PCP, I'm sure Phil can sort them out.
On the subject of suppliers saying who they are, why not use the profile section?
I dont want this forum to be bogged down by overzelous censorship either, but we set out our own rules at the start, and one of them was no advertising. I will say it again, if anyone thinks they can do a better job, or just wants a go at being a moderator, carry on. (the pays crap though.....)
Reply author: NickA
Replied on: 02 Dec 2005 18:49:16
Message:
Matt, chill man.
Rules can be modified if Phil and the majority agree.
Craig Reikens(Bell Labs USA) is known as Bell man onforums USA, he gets asked questions, find answers, actually does a very good job not just for Bell but messageboard users.
Its a two way street, criticism and praise it works.
But it is early days and the BPCA fiasco is still in a lot of minds.
Anyway to take your job on I'd have to give up smoking, problem I don't smoke.
Matt your doing OK,
Prevention for protection
Reply author: ben
Replied on: 02 Dec 2005 23:53:20
Message:
your doing fine matt and its always good to air these things ,and your right nick as time goes by i will get to knows whos who and i have already booked the 18 19 april off to go to pextex see you there.
ben
you learn as you go
Reply author: Dusty
Replied on: 03 Dec 2005 02:55:13
Message:
Nick, UPMA has a number of suppliers who post. They are given a small amount of latitude and have not flaunted it. They are able to post details of their websites. They offer good info and a lot of banter.If it was obvious their only intention for having board membership was to flog their product they would have membership cancelled.
Let none of us forget, most of us here are commercial. Until this thread started, I was aware Louise was connected to a supplier, but had no idea who. Her post didnt bother me, but then I am not about to place orders with her company either.
A forum that is not open to the public should have the ability to discuss the pros and cons of the products they use. The very nature of a forum is to enable debate. Lets be a little sensible with future parameters
Don't feed them, get Rid of them
Reply author: Fett
Replied on: 03 Dec 2005 10:38:22
Message:
quote:
Originally posted by Dusty
Nick, UPMA has a number of suppliers who post. They are given a small amount of latitude and have not flaunted it. They are able to post details of their websites. They offer good info and a lot of banter.If it was obvious their only intention for having board membership was to flog their product they would have membership cancelled.
Let none of us forget, most of us here are commercial. Until this thread started, I was aware Louise was connected to a supplier, but had no idea who. Her post didnt bother me, but then I am not about to place orders with her company either.
A forum that is not open to the public should have the ability to discuss the pros and cons of the products they use. The very nature of a forum is to enable debate. Lets be a little sensible with future parameters
Good post Dusty.
Likewise over on my forum you can talk about what you please. If suppliers want to push a particular product or techs want to rate/slate a particular product then you're all more than welcome, providing they're not going to just advertise! Any contributors can link to their websites in the links section providing they'll at least contribute to the forum. After all it's all about support. But what's the point in having a discussion forum if you can't discuss it?
Do suppliers want honest feedback?
Do techs want to put them straight?
I think the unwritten rule is Don't Take The P*** and providing people don't I really can't see the problem.
http://s4.invisionfree.com/VirtualPest
Reply author: Dusty
Replied on: 03 Dec 2005 14:14:09
Message:
The signature on the bottom of my posts is actually advertising.
The name of my company is RID Pest Control oomah!!
Don't feed them, get Rid of them
Reply author: louise
Replied on: 05 Dec 2005 10:40:47
Message:
Hello everyone
Sorry if I broke the rules or offended anyone - just wanted to help. I wasn't contactable Thursday / Friday because I was out of the office or I would have happily edited my own posting.
There are many suppliers looking to help all of you and they have put steps in place to offer you the personal contact / accessibility. I am sure that we all want to offer you the services that you require, but you need to tell us what you want - this way we will all be working together.
Best Wishes
Louise
Reply author: NickA
Replied on: 05 Dec 2005 11:04:17
Message:
Louise I wasn't offended.
Prevention for protection
Reply author: Fenn Man
Replied on: 05 Dec 2005 16:53:41
Message:
Me niether. And I'll be sniffing round later too. I have a basic question I need to sort out presently
Reply author: dean
Replied on: 05 Dec 2005 18:44:10
Message:
Have had a look at the profiles of all members, from a supliers point of view it is difficult to determine whether members are employees of private pest control companies, local authorities or sole traders. Help us out please chaps, I for one have emailed some members offering help, but have had no replies. All distributors sales advisors are here to help and I would assure you that any customers are important to us, no matter what the annual spend. Help us out chaps we don't bite and you might even get a bacon sarnie!
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