How to Be Prepared for Party Equipment Rental Season
Ready, Set, Rent: Tips for Preparing Your Party Equipment Business
Before party rental season rolls around, make sure you’re ready for the rush. Your equipment should be prepared and so should your staff. Follow these steps to gear up for your customers’ needs.
Inspect and clean equipment.
Food and concession equipment especially require thorough cleaning to appeal to customers and to keep end users healthy. Examine all equipment for proper functioning electrical cords and heating elements, and follow the instructions for cleaning. Shine glass on popcorn machines and food warmers so they look like new. (Find tips for Cleaning A Popcorn Machine.)
Replace as needed.
Don’t try to hold on to equipment and event rentals longer than is reasonable. When equipment depreciates, you’re better off purchasing a new unit than renting out an exhausted machine. Decide if the old equipment is in good enough shape that you can offer to sell it used at a discount price.
Train your staff.
Your employees should be comfortable discussing and demonstrating all of your rental equipment. Whether operating a popper or cotton candy machine, your staff must be able to provide step-by-step instructions to your customers.
Stock up on supplies.
Rental fees aren’t the only way to generate revenue. Don’t forget about supply sales that go along with many equipment rental transactions. Offer pre-portioned popcorn and oil, Flossugar for cotton candy, as well as paper products, cleaning supplies, and other supplies.
Offer alternatives.
When a potential customer doesn't want to worry about the labor associated with machine rental, have prepackaged concession foods in-stock that you can offer. Foods like cotton candy and gourmet popcorn will give a nostalgic and fun experience, while also being safe, fresh, and easy.
Cross sell.
If a customer calls inquiring about tables and chairs, be sure to ask more questions to determine what other products may be a good fit. For example, if you find out it is for a graduation party, mention that a popcorn machine can be a great addition to their event.
Look for repeat events in your past order history.
Festivals, corporate events, annual fundraisers, and birthday parties are all potential repeat business for your party rentals. Be proactive and reach out to the event planner to determine what their needs are.
Advertise.
Ads in local publications or on local radio stations are a great place to start. You can also consider advertising on social media. Set up a booth at nearby bridal shows and reach out to local schools and business associations for their calendar of events.
Collect testimonials.
Reach out to your prior customers, especially those who are loyal, repeat renters. Find out if they’d be willing to give a video or written testimonial for your services. Happy customers can be the best ambassadors for your business.
Focus on service.
Be sure to staff appropriately for busy times and have someone available to answer the phone and respond to online questions from potential customers in a timely fashion. Good customer service is the best way to make a sale and get referrals.
With this advice, you should feel confident that you are ready for a busy party rental season! For more on how to be successful with party rentals, download our FREE guide, How Party Rental Businesses Are Staying Competitive.