In an industry where every penny counts, decorators often find themselves in a tug-of-war with suppliers over the cost of paint and materials. This isn’t just about getting the job done; it’s about ensuring that each project remains profitable while maintaining high-quality standards. Recent discussions among professional decorators, such as Mike C., Simon Y., and others, shed light on the various strategies they employ to manage costs, from haggling over prices to playing suppliers against each other.
The Price of Loyalty: Relationships with Suppliers
A recurring theme in the conversation was the importance of building strong relationships with suppliers. Many decorators emphasised the benefits of being a loyal customer. For instance, David H., a former store manager, pointed out that nurturing a good relationship with store staff can result in better deals and personalised service. He even suggested that smaller, more remote stores might offer more competitive prices to secure business.
Kim B. echoed this sentiment, noting that familiarity with shop staff often leads to small discounts and better service. This personal touch can sometimes be more valuable than the savings gained from constantly shopping around for the lowest price. Michael M. takes a unique approach, winning over shop staff by occasionally bringing them cakes—a gesture that, according to him, ensures he’s always looked after.
However, not everyone sees the value in sticking with one supplier. Lee R. shared that despite initially using a single merchant, the frequent price hikes at Dulux Decorator Centre (DDC) have pushed him to explore other options. This shift in loyalty highlights a broader issue: the increasing cost of materials, which is driving more decorators to reconsider their longstanding supplier relationships.
Haggling: A Common Practice or a Dying Art?
Haggling appears to be a common practice among decorators, though opinions on its efficacy and necessity vary. Chris B. emphasised that negotiating prices is essential for maximising profit margins, stating, “We’re all meant to be in business, and it’s about squeezing as much profit out of each job as you can.” Similarly, Keith D. considers it part of his job to haggle, as he believes it directly impacts his bottom line.
On the other hand, some decorators, like James H., prefer not to haggle at all, simply passing the cost of materials directly onto the customer. This approach is shared by Dan G., who sees no point in wasting time negotiating prices for materials he doesn’t pay for directly. Instead, he adds a markup and moves on.
Interestingly, Simon Y. pointed out that the context of the job might influence whether he haggles. For small, residential jobs, he doesn’t bother negotiating, preferring to charge a flat rate. However, for larger commercial projects, where the costs can add up significantly, he sees the value in securing better deals.
The Impact of Online Shopping
The rise of online shopping has added another layer of complexity to the purchasing decisions of decorators. Mike C. admitted to buying most of his water-based satinwood and sundries online, despite having numerous supplier accounts. For many decorators, the convenience of online shopping outweighs the potential savings from haggling in-store. Phil C. and Danny C. both mentioned that living in rural areas makes online shopping a more practical option, as the cost and time of travelling to physical stores often negate any savings from haggling.
However, not all decorators are fully embracing the online trend. Nick B., a manager at Crown Decorating Centres (CDC), highlighted the competitive advantage that physical stores still hold—namely, the ability to price match and offer personalised deals to loyal customers. This sentiment was shared by Ross H., who prefers to support local merchants but struggles to justify the higher prices when online retailers offer the same products at a fraction of the cost.
The Ethics of Negotiation
The ethics of negotiation also surfaced in the discussion. John S. humorously pointed out the irony of decorators haggling over paint prices while often getting upset when customers try to negotiate with them. This double standard raises an interesting question about the nature of business transactions in the decorating industry. While decorators see haggling as a necessary part of securing their livelihood, they may view customer negotiations as an attack on their professional worth.
In contrast, Brendan C. acknowledged that while sales and services are different, it’s enlightening to see decorators on the receiving end of negotiation tactics. This perspective highlights the delicate balance between getting a good deal and maintaining professional integrity.
To Summarise…
The discussions reveal a complex landscape where decorators like Mike C., Simon Y., and others must navigate rising costs, shifting loyalties, and the ethical implications of negotiation. While some decorators thrive on the challenge of haggling and see it as integral to their business, others prefer to focus on building relationships or simply passing costs onto their clients. The rise of online shopping has further complicated the equation, offering both convenience and competition to traditional suppliers.
Ultimately, the approach each decorator takes is influenced by a variety of factors, including job size, customer expectations, and personal values. What remains clear is that in an industry where margins can be tight, the art of negotiation—whether through haggling, loyalty, or strategic shopping—remains a critical skill for any decorator looking to thrive in a competitive market.
