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When approached by the account, Shapiro and Kritz investigated the availability of kosher products and found there were more available than they expected. For instance, many Snyder’s of Hanover products are kosher.
“Since we’re already doing one, it opens doors for us to pick up similar environments, especially if we are doing it well,” noted Shapiro.
Not all specialty requests are available. And not all that are available will sell. Hence, S&O relies on drivers as the eyes and ears of the company at locations to indicate which items aren’t working and which should be tried. Route drivers are given freedom to select some products themselves.
A newly-installed remote monitoring system is making it easier to determine profitable product selections.
RESTAURANT GIVES THEM BUYING CLOUT
Because Shapiro manages a large restaurant, he is able to negotiate better prices for some products in his vending operation.
Shapiro and Kritz also make use of manufacturer supplied promotional items. S&O places stickers on bottles and snacks that customers can use to claim branded hats, mugs, or other promotional items.
While neither Shapiro nor Kritz has ever measured whether these promotions increase sales, they know it raises morale. “It’s giving back to the everyday guy,” said Shapiro.
