Retail Results 4786
October 1, 2007
Does your self-storage facility offer protective kits for renters to store fragile keepsakes? What about top-quality boxes strong enough to protect goods? Will customers have peace of mind when they purchase packing materials from your facility? If you are truly concerned with providing customers the most pleasurable rental experience, you should also be aware of the old adage, You get what you pay for.
In the storage industry, there are no shortcuts when it comes to purchasing retail products for patrons. Make sure your shelves are stocked with the proper quality and quantity of items at all times. In addition, its crucial to convey to customers the consequences of not purchasing the right products for storing valuables. Whats good for the customer is also good business.
Inventory
When stocking your facilitys retail area, keep the following products and information in mind and on hand:
Locks differ for various security needs. Of the several types in the market, disc locks provide the highest level of quality and protection for tenants.
Boxes need to have the proper corrugation specifications and crush-test standards. Also note that good boxes are made with tough glues, formulated to resist the growth of mildew and increase water-resistance.
Packaging tape should have strong film backing and instant adhesion, resist splitting or tearing, and meet storage-industry thickness requirements.
The taping method matters too. Are customers using the power H technique of sealing their boxes? This includes a strip of tape over the separation where the bottom box flaps meet, plus two added strips of tape perpendicular to the first to make an H. This process decreases the stress on box flaps.
Protection kits protect all kinds of dishware, glassware, mirrors and picture frames from shock, vibration and rough handling. These kits are a cost-effective way of transporting fragile items so customers have the proper type and amount of protection at the right time.
When purchasing retail items, you set the standard against which other storage facilities must compete. Earn a reputation for offering top-quality products customers need. This will result in higher customer satisfaction, positive word-of-mouth and referrals.
The next time you purchase retail product, remember the value of personal possessions that could be damaged far exceeds the cost of what customers buy to protect them. Make the right decisions, and you and your customers will be content with the consequences.
With more than 20 years of marketing and sales experience, Bob Strenk is president of Supply Side, a distributor of shipping, packaging, moving and storage supplies. The company has developed merchandising programs for the U.S. Postal Service, The UPS Store, Kinkos, Mail Boxes Etc., Uncle Bobs Self Storage, Extra Space Storage and many other companies. For more information, visit www.supplysideusa.com.
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