According to the buying society, NMBS Members have given a warm welcome to the Buddy System – a dedicated service that enhances the relationship between independent merchants and the NMBS Business Development Managers.
The Buddy System was introduced last year following a review by Sales & Marketing Manager Dean Hayward on how to offer members the best possible service. The concept is said to have proven invaluable during the Covid pandemic as a vital tool to enable constant communication between NMBS and its members and sees each member of NMBS’ external sales team buddying with a colleague from the internal sales team.
Merchants then receive dedicated support from both representatives, giving them a second regular contact with NMBS and making it easier for them to get support and advice quickly.
Each member of the internal sales team supports their Business Development Manager by responding to member queries, arranging appointments, and contacting potential new NMBS members. Together, the teams liaise with independent merchants across the country to provide the information they need, when they need it.
NMBS Business Development Manager Paul Woolway, and Internal Business Development Supervisor Alison Smith, have joined together to support NMBS members across the Southern regions, and have seen a strong positive response from Members.
Paul said: “We’ve had a great response to the Buddy System. Giving members a second contact at NMBS helps build on existing relationships and provides our members with a better service. It’s win-win for everyone.”
For Alison, the Buddy System has given her even more insight into the needs of NMBS members, and her presence at virtual meetings gives members instant access to reports and support that make their dealings with NMBS even more efficient.
Alison explained: “Since the start of the pandemic we’ve seen a lot more online trading from our merchants, and they are also embracing new ways of evolving their administrative works and interactions with NMBS. The Buddy System has given us a whole new way of working with our members, and it’s already paying off in terms of increased efficiencies and faster responses to queries.”
Any NMBS member that would like more information about the Buddy System should contact their Business Development Manager or visit www.nmbs.co.uk.
