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January 2025

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Expert Advice

Cutting Costs without Cutting Corners: Interview with Savings4Member’s Veronica Pratt

January 21, 2025

Every type of business is looking for an extra edge right now. In fact, it’s our hope that’s part of why you’re a member in the first place: a competitive edge to help you go farther.

As a partner of American Supply Association, Savings4Members exists to help make hitting your business targets easy. By partnering with our group and hundreds like it, Savings4Members has built a cooperative network entirely focused on connecting members with powerful scale, cost-cutting benefits, and a full team to help you take advantage. With this in mind, we talked to Veronica Pratt, Senior Account Relationship Manager at Savings4Members to learn how members can cut costs without cutting corners by making the most of every tool available, including their membership.

So, how can members access their member benefit programs?

V.P.: It’s very easy. Members can visit their Organization’s Savings Page at (OrgName).savings4members.com or call 844-346-3746 and talk to a Savings4Members Savings Consultant immediately. In addition to monthly email updates on new, updated, or recommended perks – our Savings Consultants will also check-in from time to time to see how we can help. So be on the lookout! Every member should know, our team is your team. And we’ve grown our Savings Consultant Team in the last year to ensure there’s always someone available to help you make the most of membership. A large part of that also means ensuring they’re all awesome people who are happy to help make the process painless.

Are there certain types of members that should be using your service?

V.P.: Honestly, no. Your member benefits can make an impact whether you’re a large company or small and family-owned. With over 20+ cost-cutting opportunities, there really is something for everyone. For some members, that means saving money on everyday expenses like office supplies and uniforms. For others, it’s cheaper fuel for company vehicles. But one benefit I encourage every member to start with is credit card processing, and the reason is pretty simple. Because with our close partnership with CardConnect AIP, every member can know with complete certainty that they’re getting the best possible rate. Getting started with that is really easy too, all a member needs is a copy of their most recent processing statement. Last year, the average member saved over $20,300 in processing fees – so these can really add up.

What common misconceptions prevent some members from taking advantage?

V.P.: We hear all the time that members don’t have time to look into their benefits or that they already have the lowest offering. What’s great about our service is we have a team here to do the legwork for each of them.

Another common misconception we hear from members is about their vehicles. Members have access to some incredible fuel discounts for fleets. Often, we hear, “I don’t have a fleet – just a few trucks.” But that’s more than enough to qualify and you can get a nice discount on every single drop of gas.

How should members learn more about the benefits available through their membership?

V.P.: If you’re a member and you haven’t done it yet, visit your Organization’s Savings Page – (OrgName).savings4members.com. It’s easy to access your benefits, see what programs you’re already taking advantage of, and any next steps required. Also, follow Savings4Members on our social channels, Facebook and Linkedin, to stay updated on the latest news.

Veronica Pratt, Senior Account Relationship Manager
Veronica Pratt, Senior Account Relationship Manager

For over a decade, Veronica has made it her mission to listen, learn, and lead while working with member-businesses of all sizes from a wide variety of national cooperatives, buying groups, associations and franchises. As Savings4Members’ Senior Account Relationship Manager, Veronica works directly with members of America’s best organizations to connect them with the powerful value of the Savings4Members network.

by Katherine Scheibert
Business

Empowering Independent Businesses: The Value of Member Service Programs (MSPs)

January 21, 2025

Member Service Programs (MSPs) have become essential for independent businesses looking to stay competitive. While larger corporations benefit from better rates and resources, smaller businesses often face challenges in accessing affordable services. MSPs provide these businesses with valuable tools and services that help level the playing field, enabling them to operate more efficiently, cut costs, and secure reliable vendor relationships.

Cost Reduction and Financial Flexibility

One of the most immediate and impactful benefits of MSPs for independent businesses is cost reduction. Operating costs for services like shipping, fuel, office supplies, and other essential resources can be burdensome for smaller companies. By leveraging collective purchasing power, MSPs secure rates usually reserved for large corporations, helping smaller businesses save significantly. These savings aren’t just operational advantages—they create financial flexibility and opportunities. With reduced expenses, independent businesses can invest in growth initiatives, such as expanding inventory, enhancing marketing efforts, or improving customer service, ultimately strengthening their competitive edge in an evolving market.

For example, many MSPs provide fuel savings through partnerships with leading suppliers, giving independent businesses access to discounted rates and efficient fuel management solutions. By lowering fuel costs, MSPs enable businesses to allocate savings toward optimizing transportation and logistics, improving overall operational efficiency.

“Distributors of all sizes can increase their profits by taking advantage of the programs & almost everyone can utilize at least a few of their programs that provide significant bottom-line savings.”

-Jeff Braun, CEO of Cooperative

Streamlined Operations and Efficiency Gains

MSPs provide valuable support by streamlining vendor management and reducing administrative problems. Managing multiple vendors can be complex and time-consuming for small businesses with limited staffing resources. MSPs simplify this process by consolidating vendor relationships, providing a single point of contact for various services, and offering administrative support. This frees up time for business owners to focus on delivering value to their customers.

Efficiency gains are also achieved through the optimization of supply chains. MSPs help reduce supply chain complexities that can overwhelm smaller teams by providing guidance on procurement, inventory management, and other critical operations. By eliminating unnecessary steps and minimizing delays, MSPs help independent businesses to operate more smoothly, ultimately enhancing productivity and allowing them to concentrate on core services and customer engagement.

Access to Specialized Expertise and Resources

Independent businesses often struggle to access expensive specialized solutions due to budget constraints. MSPs connect these businesses with experts, resources, and training opportunities that can improve operations and keep them informed of best practices. MSPs often partner with industry leaders to provide training and tools that small teams might not otherwise afford. Programs in technology, compliance, and business management help independent businesses stay up to date with industry changes and operate more effectively.

“The secret sauce of (MSPs) isn’t their aggressive rebate programs or lucrative deals, it’s their people. The knowledge, the expertise, and their drive for greatness is what makes our partnership grow every year.”

-Mike Shumard, Cooperative President

            Some MSPs provide access to valuable webinars, tools, and training programs that are typically out of reach for smaller businesses. These resources help small teams enhance their skills, stay informed about industry trends, and adopt best practices without the need for extensive in-house expertise. Through workshops on technology, compliance, and business management, MSPs empower independent businesses to grow sustainably and stay competitive. By offering these tailored learning opportunities, MSPs help small businesses position themselves for long-term success and resilience in a rapidly evolving market.

Reliable Vendor Partnerships and Relationship Building

Finding reliable vendors can be challenging and risky for independent or small businesses, especially when it comes to quality and consistency. MSPs simplify this process by establishing partnerships with trusted vendors. This gives small businesses access to a pre-approved network of suppliers, eliminating the need to vet them individually. This can reduce risks associated with unfamiliar vendors and provide independent businesses with peace of mind when it comes to quality and service reliability.

            Through these partnerships, MSPs ensure that independent businesses can access dependable support when they need it. The consistency and reliability brought by MSPs mean that independent businesses aren’t left scrambling to find support during critical times. MSPs also provide businesses with valuable relationship-building opportunities, facilitating connections with reputable vendors and service providers who are committed to their success. This network can be a vital resource, offering stability and assurance for independent businesses as they navigate a competitive market.

            As independent businesses continue to adapt and innovate, MSPs will play an ever more important role in supporting their success. For any independent business owner looking to expand their reach, secure their operations, and grow sustainably, engaging with a reputable MSP can be a transformative decision. Through this partnership, independent businesses can gain access to resources and opportunities that were once out of reach, creating a path toward a bright and prosperous future.

Savings4Members is more than just a provider—it’s your trusted Member Service Program (MSP), dedicated to helping independent businesses thrive. With exclusive savings programs, expert support, and reliable vendor partnerships, we’re here to empower your success. Contact a Savings Consultant today to learn more about the specific member benefits available to your business and how we can make a difference.

by Katherine Scheibert
Finance

Behind the Swipe: The Savings4Members Advantage with CardConnect AIP

January 21, 2025

Independent businesses face growing pressure from rising operating expenses and the need to meet customer expectations for seamless and efficient service. That’s where Savings4Members steps in, connecting businesses with trusted vendor partners like CardConnect AIP. Through this partnership, businesses gain access to reduced processing fees, advanced security features, real-time reporting, and seamless integration with ERP and POS systems. This allows businesses to focus on their core operations, save money, and thrive in a competitive marketplace.

Saving Money on Processing Fees

For small businesses, every dollar spent on processing fees is a dollar that could otherwise be invested in growth. Credit card processing fees can be especially challenging, as they eat into profit margins and add unnecessary expenses. CardConnect AIP helps businesses significantly reduce these costs by analyzing their current processing environment and identifying inefficiencies. By offering customized solutions, CardConnect AIP ensures that businesses only pay for the services they need.

CardConnect AIP also provides businesses with clear, transparent pricing structures that help them avoid the hidden fees often associated with other payment processors. This transparency enables businesses to make better financial decisions, while their savings can be redirected toward more strategic initiatives like expanding product lines or enhancing customer experience.

Advanced Security Features

Security is a major concern for businesses dealing with sensitive customer information. CardConnect AIP addresses these concerns head-on by utilizing advanced security technologies that protect both the business and its customers. One of CardConnect AIP’s standout features is its tokenization technology, which replaces sensitive cardholder data with unique identifiers, significantly reducing the risk of fraud and data breaches. This means that even in the event of a system compromise, the actual card information remains protected.

In addition to tokenization, CardConnect AIP offers built-in compliance tools to ensure businesses meet industry standards like PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard). These tools streamline the often-complex process of ensuring compliance, reducing the burden on small business owners and providing peace of mind. By adopting CardConnect AIP’s security features, businesses can safeguard their reputation and maintain customer trust, which is crucial in a highly competitive market.

Real-Time Reporting for Better Decision-Making

Real-time access to payment data is invaluable for making informed business decisions. CardConnect AIP’s platform offers businesses real-time reporting, giving them the tools to monitor transaction activity as it happens. Whether tracking daily sales trends, evaluating payment method performance, or identifying areas where costs can be cut, real-time reporting helps businesses stay on top of their financial health.

CardConnect AIP’s CardPointe platform offers easy-to-read, customizable reports that provide detailed insights into a variety of key metrics, including transaction volume, revenue, and payment costs. This immediate access to actionable data means that business owners don’t have to wait until the end of the month to evaluate their performance. By utilizing this data, they can make quicker adjustments to their strategy, optimize operations, and improve overall profitability.

With CardConnect AIP’s real-time reporting, business owners can move from reacting to proactively planning for growth. This insight into payment trends can also help businesses optimize their customer service, identify popular products or services, and plan for seasonal demand fluctuations.

Seamless ERP and POS Integrations

For independent businesses, operational efficiency is key to staying competitive. Many businesses rely on ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) and POS (Point of Sale) systems to manage a variety of tasks, from tracking inventory to managing customer relationships. CardConnect AIP enhances these systems by offering seamless integration with most major ERP and POS platforms. For instance, CardConnect AIP is compatible with Epicor Eclipse, P21, & DDI.

These integrations streamline the entire process by automatically syncing payment data with other business management tools. For example, sales data from the POS system can be automatically updated in the business’s accounting software, reducing the need for manual data entry and eliminating the risk of errors. By integrating payment processing with their ERP and POS systems, businesses save time, reduce administrative overhead, and ensure accuracy across their operations.

Additionally, CardConnect AIP’s flexibility allows businesses to tailor integrations to their specific needs. Whether it’s adding customized reporting features or linking with a specialized accounting tool, CardConnect AIP’s platform adapts to the business’s unique workflows, enhancing overall efficiency and allowing business owners to focus more on growth and customer service.

Part of a Network of Trusted Partners

CardConnect AIP is just one of the many reliable vendor partners that members have access to through Savings4Members. These partnerships offer businesses access to a wide range of services—from shipping discounts to fuel savings and beyond. By being part of the Savings4Members network, businesses can tap into exclusive deals and resources that are typically out of reach for smaller operations.

Savings4Members negotiates special pricing and services with its vendor partners, using the collective buying power to secure better rates for members. This means that independent businesses can benefit from the same competitive advantages that larger corporations enjoy without having to sacrifice their autonomy or scale.

Through Savings4Members, CardConnect AIP and other vendor partners become an extension of the business, helping them tackle everyday challenges with high-quality, cost-effective solutions. These partnerships not only help businesses save money, but also ensure they have access to the tools and expertise needed to grow and succeed.

Building Value for Independent Businesses

Savings4Members is more than just a network of vendor programs—it’s a strategic partner for businesses looking to optimize their operations and drive sustainable growth. By offering access to solutions like CardConnect AIP, Savings4Members equips its members with the resources they need to overcome obstacles and thrive in competitive markets.

For Savings4Members participants, the value goes beyond cost savings. It’s about simplifying operations, improving security, and accessing specialized expertise to level the playing field. Whether through lower processing fees, enhanced fraud protection, or the seamless integration of payment systems, every vendor partnership within the Savings4Members ecosystem adds tangible value to independent businesses.

As independent businesses continue to evolve, leveraging partnerships like those with CardConnect AIP will be key to their long-term success. By taking advantage of Savings4Members’ extensive network, businesses can stay ahead of the curve, save money, and build resilience in an ever-changing marketplace.

To learn more about your member benefits, visit savings4members.com/contact-us.

by Katherine Scheibert
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About Savings4Members

Our team of Savings Experts specializes in identifying the best savings opportunities for independent business owners in order to drive down business costs and increase profitability.

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