Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE: Looking for a good equipment dealer

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Posted by Dan Chilton (Member # 2288) on 12-10-2004, 07:46 AM:

We're going to be opening a single-screen in SW Missouri in the next 3 months and I'm looking for a full service equipment dealer in the Midwest region (preferrably). Any suggestions?

Posted by Adam Martin (Member # 641) on 12-10-2004, 05:07 PM:

Unless there is equipment to buy or sell, this goes in the Film Handler's Forum.

Posted by Mark Gulbrandsen (Member # 72) on 12-10-2004, 10:47 PM:

Since I DON'T recommend asking other theatres in the same area for references.... Other theatres may purposely steer you to a lousy dealer since they won't want your competition. Here are a few suggestions to look for in dealers you come in contact with.

Does the dealer have full time techs (good), or does he farm his work out to other techs? The latter can be really bad as you may not get the same tech every time. Consistency is most important in the service business

Does the dealer have a full service shop (good) or just an office with several desks in it? The latter is not even a dealer IMHO let alone someone that has put himself in a good position to really be able to help you!

How is his parts and loaner parts inventory for the equipment you end up purchasing and can he get parts to you on holidays and weekends? Does he stock loaner intermittents, gear boxes, etc?

Can your dealer keep your older obsolete equipemnt running or will he just reccomend the easy way out(for him) with replacement.

How quickly can he get to your location in an emergency if required?

Does he take forever to bill out work or is it done in a timely fashion and does he provide a statement when necessary?

What is his expereince at theatre design? Visit some of his installations and check out his designs for your self, see films at those locations (all the way through!) and pay attention to the picture,sound and presentation quality. Does he install "Pre-Package" Booths?(generally really bad) Or are his booths unique in their design and equipment selection? Are his booths and installations indicative of a creative engineer or do they seem to be run of the mill?

These are some of the things you could consider when selecting a dealer. You may find a dealer that fits all the good aspects above because there are a few out there. Eexpect him to charge more for his services than the dealer thats just wanting/waiting for another sale and is not equipped to do more than answer the phone.

Mark @ CLACO

Posted by Dan Chilton (Member # 2288) on 12-14-2004, 09:22 PM:

Thanks Mark! That was incredibly helpful.

Posted by Steve Kraus (Member # 476) on 12-14-2004, 10:11 PM:

"They also serve who sit behind a desk and drop ship!"

[Big Grin]

Just to annoy Mark and Steve G.!