| Finding
A Supplier
With the growing number of casket stores, there seems to
be a growing number of suppliers, but like everything else…
Do your homework.
Tips In Selecting A Casket Supplier
- Give long, hard thought to franchises. Casket retailing
isn't like McDonald's or Dunkin' Donuts. Casket retailing
is a new and cutting edge industry. Make certain that you're
not paying good money for blue sky and fresh air.
- Avoid starting your business casket rich and cash poor.
Most businesses fail because their start-up expenses are
too high. Don't be pressured into buying a lot of initial
inventory.
- Look carefully at any get rich quick internet sales schemes.
While caskets are sold over the internet, the percentage
of sales is minute.
If you are relying on a supplier to handle the shipping
of internet sales, find out who assumes that legal liability
if the wrong casket is shipped, if the casket doesn't arrive
at the funeral home on time, or if it arrives damaged.
While the internet is a great sales tool, the dot com disasters
of Wall Street six months ago should tell you not to quit
your day job if you're going to rely solely on this for
generating business.
- Look for a supplier that has the knowledge and experience
to work with you in growing your new business.
- Don't put all your eggs in one basket… Don't rely on only
one supplier. What happens if they go out of business? Those
in the know of casket retailing have at least two supply
sources.
- Don't sign contracts. The freedom of life comes from choice.
The more choices you have, the better. If a supplier is
doing their job by giving good pricing and a good product,
you'll want to continue the relationship. If not, it is
time to move on.
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