MEMBER STORY
Caulders Garden Centres, Scotland
A Choice member since 2011
Caulders joined Choice Garden Centre Group in 2011. The Caulders group have benefitted enormously from being part of Choice Garden Centre Group. As we run multiple sites, the fact that each manager can access a central price file and trading terms hub, via the Choice Members' Portal, 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 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 of 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, credit terms, 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.
The same applies to crisis management. When big issues arise, such as a supplier collapse, a nationwide stock shortage or something much more serious such as the covid pandemic, it is very reassuring to know that you have the support of the Choice team as well as colleagues around the country.
When these types of events occur, the Choice team spring into action, securing alternative stock, arranging delivery schedules and setting up good lines of communication with personnel from key suppliers, whilst feeding information and regular updates back out to the membership.
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 Garden Centre Group.
I am constantly looking out for ways to improve both the trading and financial performance of my business, and Choice Garden Centre Group ticks so many boxes in that respect. Being part of Choice gives us a real competitive advantage, and I would recommend that other business owners seriously consider the benefits of membership if they want to give their own business a significant boost.
Colin Barrie, Managing Director, Caulders