The Sales Pitch

[Raoul Duke]

I would value your thoughts/protocol on trying new products. The background is I produce estate grown extra virgin olive oil and would like to expand my market. So as not to be intrusive into potential users schedules, any information addressing the following, and anything else that may be useful, is greatly appreciated.

Do you set aside a day/time to evaluate new products?

Is there a best time for meeting food sales reps?

Do you make appointments?

Do you prefer samples to evaluate w/staff at a later date/time?

What's a reasonable waiting period for feedback?

Raoul

[rooftop1000]

Off the top of my head I would say the best time for a cold call walk-in would be between 2 and 3 pm...assuming a take-out / gourmet drygoods store. Mornings are for prep, then there is lunch, after 3 is the mommy and kids time and after 5 the manager is gone.

tracey

[sugarseattle]

i personally would prefer an appointment be made...i'm not going to be terribly receptive to a new product if the sales rep drops in and my buttercream is at the perfect spreading consistency...it's a matter of priorities. I think rooftop1000's times do sound good for an initial cold-call. Follow ups are best about a week later, and I appreciate the sales rep leaving behind a sample of their products, literature, and PRICING!