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By Steve Christie
Principal, Automatic Irrigation Supply Co.
If you have not asked yourself this question, then you probably should. This question applies to those who have chosen to do business with AIS for several years, as well as those that currently do no business at all with us. This is a question that you should ask yourself often, because your business is valuable enough to be earned, and certainly not to be taken for granted.
The AIS Plan to be your supplier, initially developed by David and I at his kitchen table in 1992, is the same today as it was then... "Develop and sustain long lasting relationships with our customers and add value to doing business with us." This sounds simple enough, but it takes hard work by the entire AIS Team each and every day of the year to reinforce this plan. Everything we do, and everywhere we go should continue to reinforce and support this plan!
Here are just a few ways that we are working to keep you coming back:
- Effective and Well-Stocked Locations
AIS chose to be in locations near both the customer and the developing areas. To have sufficient inventory available so that if the customer needs it, we have it. AIS will continually evaluate and inventory new products that will make your job easier.
- Training for owners, not just for the crew
At AIS, we realize that we are only effective if your businesses are profitable. That's why we offer educational opportunities to help you improve the business end of your business, instead of just the technical end. With classes and products aimed at improving your efficiency and productivity, we're helping you to take your business to the next level.
- Lots of Salespeople
AIS has more salespeople inside & out, than all of our competitors combined. Our salespeople are trained, experienced, and are excellent technical resources. The AIS employees add value and develop personal relationships with our customers. They know your business, our business and are always available to help you.
- Control of the Specification Market
Julie’s group, at all locations, does a great job for AIS and our customers. Plans and specifications that are done by AIS are of the highest quality, and our salespeople pass along the information regarding these projects to AIS customers. If you are looking for commercial work, be sure to inform your salesperson.
- The Automatic Advantage Program
This is a simple, easy to understand program that results in outstanding rewards to our customers. No hidden loopholes or pages of instructions. Up-to-date points are available on the Internet through our website (www.automaticirrigation.com).
- Early Order & Monthly Stocking Programs
Less trips by our customers to our counter means more systems being installed. We love to see you stop in, but we know for every minute you are standing at our counter that is a minute taken away from your getting the job done. So, take advantage of Early Order & Stocking Programs; this results in better efficiency, which adds significantly to your bottom line.
- Best Online Store in the Industry
Log onto www.automaticirrigation.com for AIS news, industry news, Automatic Advantage point totals, and most importantly online ordering. The store is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Place your order and pick it up, or have it delivered. You will receive an additional 1% discount on your order just for using the online store.
- Technical Training
We have the best seminars in our business, and more of them. Seminars this year included System Troubleshooting, Basic Design, Advanced Design, Lighting, Pumps, Xerigation, Rookie School; which include a residential irrigation installation from start to finish! Backflow Certification Class and a conversational Spanish class customized to the irrigation and landscaping industry.
- Technical Expertise
Quality information and assistance is available whenever you need it. AIS has more IA certifications than any other distributor in the country. If you have a question or a problem we can help you solve it.
- Owners That are Involved
I know many of our customers personally and take an active role in all aspects of our business. Our goal is not to be the biggest, just the best. We don’t have a board of directors to answer to. Our board is made up of irrigation, landscape lighting, and landscape professionals in Indiana, Michigan, and Kentucky.
The AIS Plan has always been to develop and sustain long-term relationships with our customers and add value to doing business with us. David and I support this plan. Our outstanding employees support this plan, and we hope you do as well. So the next time you ask yourself, "Why should AIS be my supplier?" I hope the answer is due to the relationship we have developed with your company, and the value we add to your business!
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