Good Service, Good Deals

"Because it curls, and with the infrared heating systems we have, it makes the problem worse," he says.

Sending out for quotes and bids is the usual method for managers seeking to obtain competitive prices. Some do it on an as-needed basis; others bid annually to update their lists and vendors. McGovern, who buys from four vendors, says that bidding annually not only helps revise his lists but also keeps him current on what specific vendors are offering.