Seeing the benefits

Metro highlighted what members can gain

The Metro Group used the show to explain to retailers what the benefits of membership are.

The group negotiates on behalf of its members – all independent flooring retailers across the UK – to get the best possible terms. These net terms are passed on to members for them to manage their own prices. The group does not hold money back to pay rebates: members get the best possible invoiced prices on every order. This puts them firmly in control of their own prices, without having to wait and wonder what level of rebate they may receive at some time in the future. Members retain the independence to set their own pricing policy, with full knowledge and visibility of the terms.

Retailers who experience the frustration of having a customer who wants a specific carpet and not having an account with that particular supplier can simplify this and save time and money in the process. Metro has in place a Central Order System with group suppliers, to order on members’ behalf. Retailers can quickly and easily get the products they want, at the best prices, and have them delivered to store – all it takes is a phone call to the Metro office. In many cases this has led to accounts being opened with members who may have struggled to open accounts before.

The Metro merchandising service is unique and one of the main benefits of group membership. A subsidised, personalised service, it can do everything from design and print a business card to revamping your entire shopfront. All Metro members receive a £600 (+VAT) free allowance to spend each year with the service – the group’s commitment to give access to the best marketing and merchandising support in the market.

A display and marketing brochure is full of examples of work completed or ideas members may wish to think about. Everything in the brochure can be made bespoke to suit members’ businesses. Design, manufacture and installation are all done by the same people, for an efficient service.

Many major retailers offer products under their own exclusive brands and the Carpet1st label has been developed for members of the Metro Group who want to take advantage of an own label. The decision on whether to show a product under the manufacturer’s name or the Carpet1st name is always up to the member: they remain 100% independent and manage their business as they wish.

The Carpet1st ranges are rebranded products agreed with the major UK and European manufacturers. The cost pricing is the same, whether retailers choose the manufacturer’s brand name or Carpet1st. The Metro Group can negotiate special offers on POS to help keep in-store displays fresh and current.

The Metro Group merchandising service can take this own-label offer a stage further: it can develop personalised branding for retailers so they can put their own business name onto ranges. Having your own name on samples and stands is the ultimate personalisation. Visit: www.carpet1st.co.uk