Ask questions. It's the way forward
If you went to the recent Hotelympia exhibition then you've probably seen a stack of equipment that would look great in your kitchen. If you've decided what to buy all that remains is to get the best price. But does the best price mean the best value for money?
If you are looking to kit out a complete kitchen you are almost certainly better off going to a reputable distributor such as a CEDA member. There are sound reasons for this. The needs of the modern kitchen are many and varied and it is unlikely that even the biggest manufacturer will be able to provide you with all that you need. So why not choose the components that suit you best and then get a distributor to source them for you as a package deal.
Don't worry about availability, a reputable distributor will be on trading terms with all the major suppliers and will be able to advise impartially on what is best for you, rather than what is best for the manufacturer, in terms of both price and specification. Purchasing this way simplifies the operation by creating a one to one relationship between buyer and vendor.
A budget can be specified, and all design, installation and after sales service carried out by the distributor. A single point of contact for both parties also avoids any potential misunderstanding and the headache of co-ordinating numerous companies on the same project.
A reputable distributor will have a good working relationship with its suppliers and benefit from dealing with professional companies who are able to support them with quality products, a wide range, extensive stockholding and fast, reliable deliveries.
Most will provide a seven-day service, as opposed to manufacturers who will normally operate only five days per week. Having a complete kitchen installed by one distributor means that all the equipment can be serviced by that distributor rather than by the individual manufacturers, saving time and money. Most distributors operate a national servicing operation and using a local distributor is likely to increase your chances of a quick response.
So, before buying, ask lots of relevant questions - such as ease of cleaning/maintenance and availability and cost of spares - compile a shopping list and then discuss your requirements with a CEDA distributor. That way you will have no cause to regret your purchase.
CEDA