working with suppliers

Re: working with suppliers

Mark Hedberg — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 13:37:16 GMT

Quite a few suppliers do lunchtime CPD, certainly one way of increasing sales is increasing knowledge of a product or service. How much of that is successful is a good question sometimes; some staff members lunch, some learn. BSAVA does lunchtime webinars, that's certainly one of the newer offerings. Offering CPD in today's economic climate definitely requires creativity and innovation, as the budgets just aren't there anymore, and more and more cheap/free options are available. Just because it's sponsored doesn't automatically mean it's suspect; most companies understand that veterinary professionals aren't fools. If the science doesn't add up, the debate is open and the kid gloves come OFF. :)

Re: working with suppliers

John Bonner — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 11:28:23 GMT

Thanks Mark. That is helpful.

I am particularly interested in two areas - CPD provision and novel marketing materials.

Less so in food sales as despite Michael's suspicions, I am not a member of Mr Lonsdale's network of covert operatives.

Could you spare five minutes for a chat, and if so what number can I call you on?

John

Re: working with suppliers

Mark Rowland — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 12:51:23 GMT

More CPD sponsorship would be a good idea, I would like to be in a position to educate more clients about issues that would include sales of some of my products as well as vet CPD to educate about the use of some of the products I commonly use. Making this free or cheaper to vets would help all concerned.

Re: working with suppliers

Bob Russell — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 12:49:48 GMT

Sadly I manage to sell far more pet food by praising it and slagging off the manufacturer!

When I was on my high horse with a certain pet food company I managed to increase sales not reduce them!!!

Re: working with suppliers

Michael Woodhouse — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 12:47:36 GMT

[quote user="Arlo Guthrie"]It's not, honestly. I know John, and he rang me about this question.[/quote]

You can see where I am coming from with recent events!

Re: working with suppliers

Arlo Guthrie — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 12:42:24 GMT

[quote user="Michael Woodhouse"]Don't tell him guys - I sniff a RMB trap...........[/quote]

It's not, honestly. I know John, and he rang me about this question.

Re: working with suppliers

Michael Woodhouse — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 12:40:52 GMT

Don't tell him guys - I sniff a RMB trap...........