Master distributor United Stationers (NASDAQ Global Select: USTR), Deerfield, IL, has launched ASK!, a survey and market research consulting resource for independent dealers.
Through research methods like surveys, focus groups and long-term tracking, the program enables resellers to stay in tune with customers' changing needs and preferences. Through ASK!, United designs data collection methods based on the questions to be answered and provides aggregated reports with key findings, research trends and tactical recommendations.
"Resellers that base strategic and tactical decisions on research-driven, qualitative and quantitative data, are better positioned to improve customer satisfaction and drive business growth," said Owen Carr, consumer research manager.
With ASK!, resellers can:
- Measure customer satisfaction and loyalty,
- Identify which departments of their business are doing well and which need improvement,
- Segment customers to identify new vertical market opportunities,
- Estimate shares of customer wallet for office product purchases versus their competition, and
- Understand customer perception of their business versus the competition.
United Stationers Inc. had 2012 net sales of approximately $5.1 billion. The company stocks approximately 130,000 items, including technology products, traditional office products, janitorial and breakroom supplies, office furniture and industrial products.