Distributor Relationships are Essential for your Business

By Karen L. Edwards, RCS Editor.

Your distributor partners provide a connection to the pulse of the industry.

Times are a little different with businesses operating under social distancing guidelines and health precautions at the top of our minds. Not to mention that storm season is upon us and we are just a month out from the official start of hurricane season.

It is more important than ever to maintain a close relationship with your distributors. They can give you insight into what is happening across the industry and answer key questions like:

• Are manufacturers experiencing shortages?

• Are they able to meet the product demands that will come with storms?

• Does your distributor have access to needed supplies?

When you have a relationship with them, they can help you understand what is happening in the industry to help you have an adequate supply of materials and to anticipate any changes that might be coming. You are the core of your distributor’s success. When your business does well, so does theirs.

Products made with you in mind

That is why some distributors are creating products for their contractors that are designed to help them be successful and profitable. SRS Distribution, for example, has created the TopShield® residential roofing products line and the TopSpec® commercial roofing system that are designed with the highest quality and a focus on helping contractors maximize productivity and performance.

“We understand your needs and we will help you achieve your best! Our customers are always top-of-mind; front-and-center; in everything we do. We are completely committed to your success,” the company states on their website.

TopShield® offers a full line of roofing and exterior building products, including shingle starter, fasteners, repair products, synthetic underlayment, ice & water protection, roof coatings, caulks, matching roof paint spray, ventilation and siding accessories.  TopSpec® empowers contractors with the products, tools and resources they need to master single-ply roofing.

Workmanship is important and contractors want to install top performing products for their customers. SRS understands this and that is why they offer material limited warranties ranging from five to 30 years on TopShield® and TopSpec® products.

Essential tools for running your business

Distributors can also be a great resource to identify the best tools to help you run your business. Often, they partner with technology providers which means you can have access to different platforms at discounted rates. For instance, SRS Distribution partners with EagleView to offer their Construct product to contractors.

As we continue to move into a more digital, contact-free world, technology will play a key role in efficiently running your roofing business. That is why SRS developed Roof Hub, the easy-to-use app that helps you manage your material orders, track delivery in real time, view invoices, take advantage of rebates and promotions and much more – all with no contact required.

Don’t forget about financing for your homeowner customers. SRS has several services that contractors can take advantage of that offer financing including the popular GreenSky, which offers a fast and paperless financing solution. Again, no contact required which puts your customers at ease.

Start that relationship with your distributor today for your business success!

Learn more about SRS in their RCS directory.