Posted : 12/01/2002

Posted : 12/01/2002

Selecting Your Equipment Supplier

Last month, we tackled the subject of upgrading to new equipment. This month we examine the difficult process of selecting the right supplier for your needs.

Once you have made the decision to upgrade your equipment, the next step is choosing your supplier. Since the perfect tanning bed has not been built yet, service after the sale is an important part of your decision- making process. While most beds and booths have warranties, it is essential to research the warranty thoroughly. Does it include parts and service or just parts? This will become important down the road.

The next thing to determine is the type of equipment to which you are upgrading. Do you have any limitations regarding the size of the room? If space is an issue, it will have a tremendous impact on your choice of equipment. Some of the newer beds on the market are quite large and have a much higher power requirement than the older beds. Make sure that your tanning room or rooms can accommodate the larger equipment before you place your order. Is the tanning surface of the bottom acrylic shield important? This very well may be an issue if you own a fitness center.

Take time to visit the supplier. All it takes these days is a business card and a Web site to give one the appearance of a strong company. Ask the supplier to show you beds that have been in the field. The stronger lines tend to hold up better over time and are a much better investment.

Some salon owners may look at cutting back on the type of upgrade they want to make. A good rule of thumb is to seek out local references and visit those salons. What works in Seattle may not work in Tampa, Fla. Generally locations within a 30- to 45-minute drive should suffice. This may give you some insight on what type of account the company sets up. Does the company simply sell the equipment and "run," or does it truly have an interest in a salon's success? Be sure to find out how long the prospective company has been in business.

Ask what other amenities the company offers. For example, some suppliers will offer business pro forma information that can help salon owners obtain a loan or lease on the equipment. Others are "semi-architects" and actually can help you with salon design.

The purchasing point should be price. Once you have analyzed all of the above, your selection should become pretty clear.

If you have a question that you would like answered in this forum, contact joe_lsi@bellsouth.net.