“It is safe to say that selling products with outstanding qualities like these is easy”
J&E Machines is a premium Finn-Power distributor in the Netherlands. Owner Ed Snijders first encountered Finn-Power machines over 30 years ago. Impressed by the machines’ smart technology, Snijders began his journey as distributor in 1999. Today, Finn-Power makes up around 25–35 % of the company’s turnover. J&E Machines has two Finn-Power-specialized service technicians and a large Finn-Power spare part stock.
“When people hear Finn-Power, they think of quality. Finn-Power’s reputation is something that passes on from generation to generation. However, the reputation is no folktale: it is based on reality. I have seen customers with Finn-Power machines that are over 20 years old and in immaculate condition.”
The machines’ long lifespan stems from Lillbacka paying special attention to high-quality component manufacturing – the company manufactures the most critical components themselves in Finland, which has led to the machines meeting the strictest tolerances even several decades after purchase. The machines’ excellent quality, reliability and accuracy are also what Snijders receives most customer feedback on.
“It is safe to say that selling products with outstanding qualities like these is easy. Being a Finn-Power premium distributor definitely has a positive effect on our company’s brand.”
Customers Look for Excellent Service and Advanced Technology
In addition to an excellent product, Snijders believes that succeeding as a premium distributor requires three things: loyalty on both sides, excellent service and products with advanced technology. Loyalty is the basis for a long-term partnership while excellent service ensures customer satisfaction and enables the distributor to expand their customer base.
“At the end of the day, the level of service, usability and continuity is the most important aspect when purchasing any product. Providing good service requires being in active contact with the customer. We hear feedback and requests straight from people who actually work with the machines on a daily basis. We are therefore able to help and advise them in the best way possible. Our service is something customers are extremely happy with.”
Today, people are interested in new, modern technologies and advanced solutions. Snijders points out that in recent years, Lillbacka has made significant investments in machine intelligence. These investments enable them to respond to customer needs and therefore, to maintain their competitiveness.
“Another important factor in succeeding as a premium distributor is the amount of provided information and assistance. Lillbacka is doing this perfectly right now. We are getting all the help we need in terms of materials, marketing, product information and so on. It is all a dealer can ask for.”
“The Most Professional Company I Have Ever Worked With”
Snijders describes Lillbacka as one big warm family. He has a good relationship with everyone in the company, regardless of their position.
“I started my Lillbacka journey more than 25 years ago with Jorma Lillbacka. Still, to this day, it is always great to see him: we have dinner and talk about old times. Pekka has done a magnificent job following in his father’s footsteps. The folks at Lillbacka are a great group of people who I consider to be my friends. They also happen to be the most professional company I have ever worked with.”
Founded in 2001, J&E Machines provides customer-oriented hose and tube processing solutions for, among others, the automotive and shipbuilding industries. Visit their website or contact Ed directly.
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