Firstly, I would like to repeat what I stated in an earlier post when the topic of One Step/ Solutions first arose. I have been using One Step and One Step Fineline for more than 2 years now. The products have consistantly performed to my highest expectations. The service and technical support I have received from Amtech UK, their distributors and in particular Steve Carpenter has been superb.
Recently, One Step has had a significant price increase. I can't say I was overjoyed, but you have to expect this sort of thing. Prior to this occasion, One Step had been decreasing in price for what seemed year after year. You can't have it both ways.
As a businessman, I feel that I offer my customers a high quality service (not just the cleaning, but the overall package). Even though my prices have increased every 2 years, it is reasonable to expect the majority of my customers will remain loyal, even if there are cheaper options available. I would expect that most contributors to this board would expect the same to apply to themselves. I would therefor raise the question: Is it right to operate double standards? You would like your customers to remain loyal, even after a price increase, so why not in the opposite direction with your suppliers?
From the posts I have seen on this and other forums, I gather that Solutions operate out of Cornwall, but have no distributors. Would it be reasonable of me to presume that in the Solutions business plan, the appointment of distributors is a short term goal? This would surely mean a price increase through these outlets in order to provide a reasonable profit. I can't imagine that these potential distributors would be happy if the UK distributor was retailing to the nation at a significantly lower price. So, according to my (sometimes fallable) logic, a price increase would be on the cards.
I have to admit that I have not yet used products from Solutions. From what I read they are cleaning well. However, it would be interesting to hear from others about residues. Recently I have spoken with two well respected colleagues who have tried Solutions but reverted back to One Step. The one cleaner had carried out the traditional residue test ie. left some mixed solution in a saucer to evaporate. The results he told me was that the Solutions brand was turning lightly sticky as it dried whereas the One Step brand just crystalised. Upon completion of drying, both brands were crystalised. Has anybody else out there carried out this test and achieved the same results? Obviously, if I were to use this alternative brand to One Step, this is one of the things I would need to do to satisfy myself.
Safe and happy cleaning:)
Ken
