Supplier becomes your competitor

[John Paul Sanborn]

My rep gets me hired, even when Im the highest, Your a BAMF, you should feel no threat, just anger!

There is no reason for anger either, this is just business.

 

[tree MDS]

There is no reason for anger either, this is just business.

No hate? Hmm.. I will have to work on that one a bit.

 

[John Paul Sanborn]

No hate? Hmm.. I will have to work on that one a bit.

Why you hat'in so much bro?

Though i do hate it when the H/O brings in a low-baller to do a "trim tree" and the do a a raise and gut rape job on something I have been maintaining for years. Then the client calls to cry on our shoulder....

I'll have to admit that it strokes my ego when a client tells me that the H/O specifically asked to have "Big John" on the project.

 

[tree MDS]

Why the hate?? We have some real beauties around here. That's why. I'm sure it's like that everywhere though..

It does get better, as I'm finally starting to see things grow a bit on my end. People do notice when you consistently do a good job, stick to your bid etc, etc. It has not been an overnight affair though, that's for sure. This is year fourteen for my little biz.

 

[treeclimber101]

I have a trade supplier less than a mile from my house. Been dealing with them for over 30 years. They have everything just about you can find in Sherrill or other catalogs. They sell mulch and ferts and herbicides etc etc. They have serviced my sprayer.

Bout 6 years ago a fellow bought out the family owned business. He is a great guy and very personable but just a few weeks ago, having a good deal of extra space, he brought in a marginally competitive tree co. into his property, that he said is renting to. This is right on the border of my area of op.

Coincidental thing is a few months ago he asked me to "partner up". This to me was a compliment but I declined to act as I have been down the partner road and it was not a good ride. This has me thinking he has "partnered up" with this newly bought biz (by an accountant) that has a few nice pieces of equipment but posed no threat until MAYBE he is now in biz with this old established name biz (the supplier's).

I guess I could have someone call and ask if this supplier recommends a tree service in the area and see where they are at but it just irks me to even buy supplies there even tho it is so convenient to not go the snail mail route.

What do you all think and how would you feel if you have not already faced this dilemma?

No offense but he asked you first , so at this point you cannot have any hard feelings even if he is referring another tree company , he gave you first dibs and for your own reasons you declined this has never happened to me but if your a good contractor than your customers will stay loyal , good luck ..

 

[treevet]

No offense but he asked you first , so at this point you cannot have any hard feelings even if he is referring another tree company , he gave you first dibs and for your own reasons you declined this has never happened to me but if your a good contractor than your customers will stay loyal , good luck ..

Thanks man, but also it would be uncomfortable to continue to buy his supplies if he is recommending another tree company with or without a vested interest. Life goes on.....

Not really worried.....until I start to expand....

 

[jefflovstrom]

Thanks man, but also it would be uncomfortable to continue to buy his supplies if he is recommending another tree company with or without a vested interest. Life goes on.....

Not really worried.....until I start to expand....

Maybe you are not a " people person"! Or something. Life does go on, tho.
Jeff

 

[tree md]

Sounds like he's getting high on his own supply...

 

[Bigus Termitius]

Sounds like he's getting high on his own supply...

A repable quote, indeed! LOL!

If I were you treevet, I would get used to ordering online, unless you need something asap.

Maybe drop by for a small purchase now and then. I like the idea of calling to ask for a tree care reference. That might tell you all you need to know. If he plugs his 'renter', ask if there is anyone else with whom one might get a second estimate as well.

If he balks on you then, it is most certainly the end.

 

[treevet]

Good idea Biggy. opcorn:

 

[treeclimber101]

Most customers now are not just getting a single quote but numerous , so your odds of getting the call anyway are decent ..

 

[Toddppm]

I have to ask, that's not you is it Treevet?



Jackson Browne?

 

[treeclimber101]

I have to ask, that's not you is it Treevet?



Jackson Browne?

No thats the guy from NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN

 

[jefflovstrom]

I have to ask, that's not you is it Treevet?



Jackson Browne?

Jeff

 

[treeclimber101]

This is TREEVET

 

[jefflovstrom]

This is TREEVET

When I Google it!
Here he is.
Jeff

 

[Toddppm]

Javier somebody? Never heard of that movie

Looks alot like this guy

 

[tree md]

this is treevet

lol!

 

[treevet]

This is TREEVET

Not me but kinda like the face I make when I am banging 101's mommy (minus the clothespin on the nose).

 

[jefflovstrom]

Not me but kinda like the face I make when I am banging 101's mommy (minus the clothespin on the nose).

That is not only Rude, but un-professional. Take your boots off and go to sleep.
Jeff Nite!