When it comes to outfitting your restaurant, bar, or foodservice operation with commercial kitchen equipment, it is important to partner with a company that understands your unique needs. While big box & online restaurant super stores might seem like the easiest route, they simply can’t match the level of personalized service and expertise that KEC Design brings to the table. Here’s a deeper look into why KEC stands out.
Personalized Customer Service:
The Human Touch
It may sound old fashioned, but at KEC, every customer is treated as an individual. From the moment you start working with our team, you’re paired with a dedicated project manager who stays with you throughout the entire process. You’ll always speak to the same person, ensuring continuity and a deep understanding of your specific project. From the questions we ask to our focus on the ‘small stuff’ we our hands-on approach ensures that your equipment is right for the space and compliant with local code. Even after the purchase is made, you have our full support. If an issue arises with your equipment, we don’t leave you to fend for yourself. We work directly with manufacturer reps to schedule training, troubleshoot issues, facilitate repairs or replacements and provide you with clear next steps for warranty claims.
In contrast, big box stores lack the same level of personalized service. Customers are typically bounced around from one customer service representative to the next.. There’s no dedicated project manager to guide you through layout planning or to provide insights on build-out nuances like plumbing and electrical hookups which can result in costly mistakes down the road. Post purchase support is often limited to redirects to manufacturer websites and 800 numbers, leaving your restaurant or bar in chaos when something goes wrong.
Expertise & Knowledge of Manufacturers
At KEC, we have over 25 years of experience working closely with top equipment manufacturers. This allows us to be your advocate and offer tailored recommendations that fit both your budget and your needs. With 250 years combined expertise, our team knows which manufacturer’s products are best suited to your operational needs.
Big box stores, on the other hand, focus heavily on price and lack the consultative approach to pair the right equipment to your need. They tend to push private label brands to maximize their profit margins. With limited expertise on the nuances of different manufacturers, they can’t offer the kind of insight you need to make an informed decision about your kitchen equipment.
Consolidation, Delivery, & Coordination
One of KEC’s key advantages is our ability to receive, inspect and consolidate projects in our warehouse ensuring a coordinated approach to the arrival of equipment to your job site. .
With big box and online superstores stores, deliveries often come in multiple shipments, direct from the manufacturer, which can create confusion, delays and sometimes loss With no ability to coordinate with your job site team, and you’re often left to figure out logistics, delivery and installation details on your own…what a headache!
Design Services: Custom Layouts & Installation Services
When it comes to designing your kitchen, KEC offers custom layout and design services. We listen and take the time to really understand your menu and serving operation which can be easily overlooked detail when designing a kitchen. We think about the chefs, the wait staff, the prep areas, dishwashing stations, server steps, and how equipment should be arranged to increase productivity, decrease labor costs and improve the customer experience.
Most big box stores don’t offer design services, and those that do usually require a redesign. Why? They lack the expertise so you’re left to figure out your kitchen layout on your own, often without guidance on how to make the most out of your space. Design mistakes and omissions almost always cost more in the long run.
Design Services: Custom Layouts & Installation Services
KEC Design provides full installation services, ensuring that your equipment is properly set up and ready to use. Our install team makes sure everything is correctly connected, so you can focus on running your business without worrying about setup.
Big box stores either deliver in a box and you assemble the product or you pay extra to arrange for third-party contractors to handle the setup. This adds time, cost, and complexity to the process.
Budget-Friendly Options
At KEC, we offer a variety of options to suit different budgets. We provide transparent quotes, including several equipment choices, so you get the best value for your investment without compromising on quality or dependability.
While big box stores may appear cheaper upfront, they often prioritize low-cost equipment that may need frequent repairs or replacement, ultimately costing more in the long run.
So, Why NOT KEC Design?
From personalized customer service and expert advice to streamlined delivery and full installation support, KEC Design offers a level of service that big box and online restaurant superstores stores simply can’t match. We’re with you every step of the way, ensuring your restaurant and bar equipment is tailored to your needs, compliant with regulations, and ready to support your business. Choose KEC as your reliable partner from the initial design phase to daily smallwares needs.