5 Reasons Why Working with the Manufacturer is Better for You - and your Customers

2018-01-31

Last week, we dove into a common phenomenon in our industry: suppliers that private-label concrete coatings, sometimes passing themselves off as manufacturers. This week, we dive deeper into why ensuring that your supplier is the manufacturer, or one of its distributors, is the only way to go when ordering your supplies.

1) When questions or issues arise, you know who to call.

If your team has a technical question on the product or its use, there is a vast difference between calling a helpline run by marketers and calling the manufacturer direct. In the case of a private labeler, you may not even know who the real manufacturer is. The manufacturer has the answers, as well as the very team that creates the product, from R&D to production. The buck stops here in terms of product information and support.

2) Need custom product? Only the original manufacturer can handle that.

Private labelers can't create new products, or tweak existing formulations to meet a customer's unique needs. Only the engineers, researchers and chemists at the manufacturer can tell you whether a customization is possible – as well as make it happen.

3) More detailed product information is available through the manufacturer.

As you're researching coatings prior to purchase, or bidding on a project, you need specs, data and more. The manufacturer may have a library of product videos, downloadable manuals and in-depth product descriptions on their website alone – in addition to knowledgeable customer service representatives on hand to answer questions.

4) The manufacturer can connect you with distributors and retailers that sell their product.

Need to get product in a hurry? Sometimes buying direct from the manufacturer is not an option – especially if there are quantity minimums or you don't have time for shipping. The manufacturer knows which distributors service your area – and may even have inventory information.

5) The manufacturer can become a source of referrals - i.e., more clients for you.

What? The manufacturer can help me earn more business? Yep. Here at Citadel, we have a certification program for installers, in applying our products. Certified installers become part of a database of contractors that we refer to customers when they contact us directly about product.

Make sure you are working with a real-deal manufacturer or an approved distributor in selecting your concrete coatings. You should always know the true source of your materials. Need help making a choice? Click here to schedule a no-obligation call to speak with one of our flooring experts - and rest easy, knowing you're working with the manufacturer directly.