Well known UK industry supplier returns with new business
Many would agree that one of the things that makes the watercooler industry special is its people, so it is always good to welcome someone back!
Ian Devine is well known – particularly in the UK – for his Kleena Coola business, which was an important supplier of sanitising kits and sundries to the industry for nearly 20 years. He’s now back with a new business and Bill Bruce caught up with him to find out more…
After two and half years away from the industry, you’re back – with ProCooler Supplies. What’s brought you back, and why now?
“The marketplace has changed – again! – but there is still a place for an independent, watercooler focused supplier. From the early days of my exit, I received calls from distributors which I have used as encouragement in starting again.
“We did perform an important role for watercooler distributors with a simple business ethic. We are here to make your business life a wee bit easier. Again, with ProCooler we have used our knowledge to bring well over 100 watercooler essentials into one rather large shopping kart!”
What are the biggest changes you’ve seen in the water cooler industry over the past two decades, and what makes ProCooler different?
“The industry has again, gone through a period of acquisition by large dominating business, similar to the early 2000s. Back then, there was a certain amount of trepidation especially the independents, but they still survived, and indeed thrived, due to the one key factor – SERVICE. This is key to the industry, and is key to ProCooler. Without it, we are not going to be trusted.”
What can operators expect from ProCooler Supplies?
“I look at the shelves, and if I was running a watercooler business, I would need to buy all of these products, so the ability to get them from a single independent source is I believe very important. The range goes from chemicals, to mats, to bottles, wipes through to brassware.
“We will grow from the present level – well over 100 products – organically, as we are customer led.
“The website will allow trade-only customers to access pricing and indeed to place their order. Our tech guy tells me this will link and feed the accounts package – very 21st century! This will be a bonus for customers, who don’t want to talk to me!”
Will we be seeing you at any of the industry’s events?
“We signed up to WHA which is important for credibility and accountability. Trade shows are important to a company like ProCooler Supplies, as it gives us some direct interaction with customers. I did the WHA show in May this year and I was given a tremendous welcome by many friends and customers which was very humbling, and obviously very very encouraging!
“Our focus for now is on the UK, but we wish WE a successful show in Bucharest, and we are looking forward to the WHA event next year…”
We’ve missed you! What’s it like to be back?
“It has taken a few months longer than I hoped to get up and running, but we are here now and open for business. Let the fun begin!”