Our business managers have many years of experience across the spectrum of account management. We have built deep relationships with MSO retailer groups (multi-site operators), store owners, retail buyers and emerging key independent grocery accounts. Our state based account managers can offer head office representation to support and drive your strategic sales growth objectives.
Our account management services include:
• Preparing and presenting new line submissions to maximise your sales opportunities.
• Negotiating trading terms to grow your bottom line and deliver value for money.
• Promotional planning and execution to grow sales in the most cost-effective way.
• Category reviews and sales performance analysis to help your decision making.
• Price surveys and market intelligence – know what your competitors are up to.
• Working with you to develop and implement best practice business plans for each account.
The Superlink Difference
The role of an account manager in retail sales is multifaceted, with various responsibilities aimed at building and nurturing strong relationships with key clients and retailer group buyers to deliver the very best outcomes for your brand. At Superlink, our Account Management team have years of experience and already possess trusting relationships with the key personnel to deliver the right information and sales packages to get your brands ranged and promoted in stores.
In the competitive landscape of retail, account managers play a pivotal role in driving sales, delivering customer satisfaction, and fostering long-term partnerships. Our state-based, experienced account managers are here to help represent your brands. The client is always encouraged to own the head office relationships and we support between visits and major reviews, we become the conduit for brands and retailers.
Understanding Your Needs:
A fundamental responsibility of an account manager in retail sales is to gain a deep understanding of your business, your objectives, and your challenges. This involves immersing oneself in the category, staying abreast of market trends, and comprehending the unique dynamics that influence the retail operations. By grasping the intricacies of your business, our account managers can tailor their approach to retailers to provide solutions that directly address your specific needs.
Product Knowledge and Expertise:
An effective account manager in retail sales is well-versed in the products or services offered. This includes an in-depth understanding of the features, benefits, and applications of the products, enabling the account manager to position them effectively to meet the retailer’s requirements. This product knowledge not only instills confidence in the brands we represent but also allows the account manager to suggest complementary offerings that can enhance the retail activation.
Strategic Account Planning:
Account managers in retail sales engage in strategic account planning to chart the course of the client relationship. This involves developing a roadmap with the retailer that aligns to the suppliers’ objectives with the products or services offered including negotiating trading terms, create promotional programs, deliver retail activations and support in category reviews. The strategic plan outlines key milestones, potential challenges, and opportunities for growth. By taking a proactive and strategic approach, our account managers position themselves as partners invested in the long-term success of the suppliers’ retail endeavors.
Building and Maintaining Relationships:
Relationship-building is at the core of an account manager’s role in retail sales, and we have forged strong and respectful relationships with major and emerging independent retail groups. To be successful we understand the importance of trust and rapport in fostering these enduring partnerships. We take on the role of the primary point of contact between the supplier and the retailer group, ensuring that communication is seamless, transparent, and responsive. Regular check-ins, status updates, and face-to-face meetings contribute to the development of a strong, collaborative relationship.
Customer Satisfaction and Issue Resolution:
It’s important to deliver customer satisfaction. We act as advocates for your brand within the company, addressing any concerns or issues promptly. Swift and effective issue resolution is essential in the retail sector, where customer experience directly impacts brand loyalty. We offer 1 contact point to work closely with supplier and retailer teams to troubleshoot problems, provide solutions, and maintain a positive client experience.
Sales Growth and Upselling:
Beyond maintaining existing relationships, account managers in retail sales are tasked with identifying opportunities for growth. This may involve introducing new products or services that align with your evolving needs. Upselling and cross-selling strategies can be suggested to maximise the value derived from our relationship.
Data Analysis and Reporting:
Account managers leverage data analysis to measure the success of supplier and retailer relationships. Key performance indicators (KPIs) are tracked to assess the impact of products or services on the client’s retail performance. By providing data-driven insights, account managers can demonstrate the tangible value delivered, identify areas for improvement, and collaborate with suppliers to optimise their retail strategies.
We have experienced account managers that are dynamic and integral to the success of the supplier, the retailer and Superlink. By combining in-depth industry knowledge, strategic planning, relationship-building skills, and a customer-centric approach, great account managers are integral to the growth and sustainability of retail partnerships in a competitive market.