Mobile distributor Joe Hardin says calculated purchases at tool shows, as well as having support from his flag and vendors, can provide a great boost to business.
“I have a lot of connections with Mac Tools. That’s a big thing for me. You can definitely save money at tool shows – buy in volume. It’s going to be stuff that I sell. I didn’t purchase it on a whim. I buy stuff that I get deep discounts on, and that I sell all year long to make better margins.”
It doesn’t hurt that Hardin’s had 20 years of practice. “Even if you don’t buy a single item at the show, the vendor support is invaluable,” he adds. “I’ve gotten so many issues resolved. You go to their booth, say ‘We need to talk,’ and they’ll want to quiet you down. Well, I don’t quiet down until I get done what I need to get done,” he laughs.
