In it for the long run

Cleaning contractors need to depend on their machinery and equipment, sure in the knowledge that they have staying power and won’t be superseded by other models too soon. Ricky Smith, Truvox International’s UK Field Sales Manager, advises on matters of longevity, in terms of equipment and consumables.

The recent celebrations for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee prompted much debate about the virtues of tradition, and the comforting nature of things staying the same. In a world where the pace of change is so fast, it’s no surprise that people are reassured by the familiar.

When it comes to cleaning equipment, longevity is extremely important. Contract cleaners need to be able to deliver the highest standards consistently, so their machinery must never let them down – in terms of reliability, and the availability of consumables. Equipment and machinery represent a significant investment in monetary terms so it makes sense to ensure that it is going to be around for some time.

When doing your research, speak to the sales engineer about how long the model being offered has been available, and how long it will continue to be available. If the model is to be discontinued in the future, how will this affect the availability of consumables? Just because a certain model is being phased out in favour of a new version, that doesn’t necessarily mean that your existing machine has come to the end of its life. However, if the correct belts, filters, pads and brushes become unavailable, then you may have no choice but to retire it early, even though it still has a significant amount of ‘mileage’ left in it.

Specific examples of how long successful models have remained on sale are also useful. Products that prove popular, delivering the results that customers require, will inevitably lengthen their lifespan in the marketplace. Talking to peers and industry contacts, and keeping abreast of the latest trends and case studies in the trade press, will also give you a good idea of what is working, and what looks like having a fighting chance of standing the test of time.

It’s also advisable to try and get an overview of a company’s policy on model replacement. Those suppliers or manufacturers that are committed to providing good customer service and account management will be upfront about timelines and costs, and keep you in the loop every step of the way. If they are into research and development, you may even get the chance to play your own part in shaping the machines of the future!

Training is another important factor that mustn’t be forgotten. If new models are scheduled to be brought in at regular intervals, how will this affect your employees? Will they have to undergo specific training each time a new machine becomes available? This will represent a cost in both time and money – and may affect the level of service offered to your customers.

Progress is inevitable and most welcome when it improves quality and efficiency, but it needs to be planned for, to ensure service levels remain constant and standards never slip.

www.truvox.com

This article was published in C&M – August 2012