At Astraseal, we have recently implemented the next stage of our installer support strategy and opened an on-site trade counter. Operating from our main manufacturing facility in Wellingborough, the trade counter stocks a comprehensive range of installation essentials including trims, sealants, silicone, screws, fixings, tools and other ancillary products, all available at razor sharp trade prices.
A skip facility is also on offer, enabling installers to get rid of their old frames free of charge, and there is a 50% discount for customers that are also ordering windows and doors from Astraseal.
Operations director Colin Stanley discussed the new initiative in more detail: “Astraseal already supply a very comprehensive range of uPVC and aluminium windows, doors and conservatories, so opening a trade counter was the next logical step. The major motivator behind the trade counter was to offer more convenience for the installer. Now, rather than having to go elsewhere, local customers can simply buy ancillary items when they collect their order, while customers based further afield can order products to go with their delivery.
Supporting our trade customers
We’re not making a huge margin on these products –they’re available at the same price as many of the national trade counters– so it’s really more about supporting our trade customers. We’re offering a 50% discount to customers already buying windows and doors, which as an example would take a 25mm D Mould from our standard price of £2.25 to just £1.12 for a 5m length – which is very competitive.”
As Colin explains, the trade counter also dovetails as a place that customers can come to for technical advice. “The trade counter is manned by Phil, a very experienced window installer. Therefore customers are not faced with someone who just works the till, but someone who’s got hands on experience and knows our products inside out. Phil will thoroughly check all orders before they’re handed to the installer, offering advice if he thinks they’re missing an essential item, and will help customers load their van. It’s a very comprehensive service.”
The trade counter is just the latest installer focussed initiative we have introduced. We recently launched an online ordering facility and is offering tailored marketing support to help their customers grow in addition to supplying a wide range of products made with REHAU, Eurocell, Synseal, Smarts and Reynaers profile systems. All sealed units are made in house and frames are available colour coated courtesy of the Astraseal paint facility.
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