GTN Promotion Here’s what Choice Marketing members say Will Blake, is the second generation of the family to join St Peters. He is general manager at the family firm and Chairman Elect of the GCA: “St Peters have enjoyed the many benefits of Choice Marketing membership since it helped establish the organisation back in 2002. Choice is one of the industry’s leading buying and marketing groups and has forged strong, mutually beneficial working relationships with dozens of key suppliers throughout the garden centre, gift, home and leisure sectors. “As an independent garden centre, we really value the combined influence and buying strength that Choice gives our business, as it far exceeds what we would be able to achieve on our own. The enhanced service we receive from suppliers combined with the direct lines of communication that the team at Choice have with key account managers across our supply chain, ensures that any issues are dealt with quickly and efficiently. “The team at Choice negotiate the very
best prices and trading terms on our behalf, which frees up countless hours in our own business and allows my senior management team to devote more time to the day to day operation of the centre. It also enables us to concentrate more on other important strategic issues facing the business”. “When you look at the modest cost of membership and then you consider the many benefits we receive, not forgetting the financial returns we enjoy, it is probably one of the best investments we make on an annual basis. Colin Barrie along with his wife Mandy founded Caulders back in 1999. Colin is also a member of the Choice sundries forum, playing a vital role in the negotiation of supplier trading terms on behalf of the Choice membership: “The Caulders group have benefitted enormously from being part of Choice Marketing. As we run multiple sites, the fact that each
manager can access a central price file and trading terms hub, via the Choice web site has been invaluable. “Although Choice’s strength lies with horticultural sundries and plants, they have also negotiated excellent trading terms with numerous suppliers across gifts, Christmas, food, home and outdoor leisure sectors which has been great for our business. “The off-invoice discounts we enjoy have made a significant improvement to our operating margin but in addition to that, the turnover based rebates that we earn on purchases with Choice suppliers, total tens of thousands of pounds and make a sizeable contribution to our bottom line. “I really value the networking opportunities and the camaraderie that exists within Choice. Chatting to Choice colleagues either by phone, or in person at one on the many trade events, and at the Choice conference has, on so many occasions given me really valuable insight. I have received recommendations for service providers, found out about new suppliers, learnt about fast selling products that I didn’t even stock, and have had the opportunity to discuss new trends and issues that affect my business, with people I can trust and whose opinion I value. “There is definitely strength in numbers. When negotiating prices, or discussing delivery issues, or credit terms or stock availability or any other preferential terms or supplier issues, there is no doubt that having the weight of Choice behind you is a real advantage. “I am very confident that we have received better terms, better service and better stock availability from suppliers, as a direct result of our association with Choice Marketing”.
Choice Marketing is probably one of the best investments we make on an annual basis
I am very confident that we have received better terms, better service and better stock availability from suppliers, as a direct result of our association with Choice Marketing
For more information To find out more information about Choice Marketing or to apply to join Choice either phone or e-mail the Membership Manager; Anthony Gould, anthony.gould@choice-marketing. co.uk or contact Michelle de Lavis Trafford, CEO, mdelavistrafford@btinternet.com. The Choice Marketing team would be delighted to meet with you in person, either at your own centre, or at one of the many industry trade shows held throughout the year. Alternatively, we can arrange a meeting at one of our member centres, to enable you to speak with someone who is already enjoying the many benefits that membership has to offer. www.choice-marketing.co.uk
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