Distribution’s Proactive Approach To Inventory Management Helps Jan/San Customers Keep Their Equipment Running

By Jeff Tishko, President of DPA Buying Group and Vice President of Business Development and Co-owner of Colker Janitor Supplies, in Pittsburgh, PA

Jeff Tishko

As a distributor, one of the biggest challenges we face is ensuring that we have the necessary machine parts in stock for our customers. In today’s fast-paced world, customers expect quick and efficient service, and any delay in getting their equipment up and running can result in lost business. This is why inventory management for machine parts is crucial for a successful distribution business.

At Colker Janitor Supplies, we have two locations and a team of service professionals trained to handle all equipment repairs. As the Vice President, it is my responsibility to ensure that our inventory of machine parts is well-managed and constantly stocked. This is where our service manager, Eric Gephart, plays a crucial role. He has been with us for years and has a deep understanding of the importance of inventory management in the janitorial supply industry.

Eric’s approach is to focus on the machines that we sell and the parts that will most likely need to be replaced. This includes parts for auto scrubbers, vacuum cleaners, and other equipment we distribute. By keeping a close eye on the machines we sell, we can predict which parts will be needed more frequently and make sure to have them in stock at all times.

For example, if we sell an auto scrubber from a particular manufacturer, Eric makes sure to have replacement blades, switches, and other minor parts in stock. This allows us to quickly and efficiently service our customers when their equipment breaks down, minimizing their downtime. Eric is also diligent in checking for OEM parts, as sometimes the manufacturer may not have them in stock, but our customers can’t afford to wait for them to be ordered.

One of the ways we manage our inventory is by using a MinMax program. This program helps us determine the minimum and maximum levels of inventory for each part based on historical usage data. This means that we always have the right number of parts in stock without overstocking, which can tie up our finances. Cash-flow is important. Having a well-managed inventory is crucial for any distributor, but in the janitorial supply industry, it can make or break a business. Our customers rely on us to keep their equipment running, and any delay in getting the necessary part can result in lost business. Therefore, we make it a priority to have a variety of machine parts in stock at all times.

In conclusion, as a distributor, it is essential to focus on the machines you sell and the frequently needed parts. By using a MinMax program and adopting a proactive approach to inventory management, you can provide your customers with efficient and timely service. A well-stocked inventory reflects your commitment to your customers’ needs, and it will ultimately lead to customer satisfaction and loyalty. Keep in mind the customer didn’t call your company to see if you had it in inventory. He called because he needs the part.

The DPA Buying Group is comprised of over 1,200 distributors and approximately 250 preferred suppliers in the janitorial/sanitary, safety, industrial, packaging, restoration, and public safety and market segments.  DPA connects its independent distributors with its partnered suppliers for increased sales and networking opportunities. More information about the organization can be found at www.DPABuyingGroup.com.