Route Owner Responsibilities
There are dozens of different types of routes and each of them have their own unique business models. Regardless, most route owners have very similar day to day responsibilities. The list below is meant to provide a general overview of what tasks route owners are responsible for.
- Maintaining a strong relationship with your accounts
- This includes store managers, receivers and any other employees that assist you
- Be on time and maintain a professional and conversational relationship
- Service your accounts consistently and diligently
- Try and maintain a regular schedule so that account/store management knows when you will be there
- Make your space in the store look professional. The appearance of your product is crucial.
- Remove expired or damaged product as soon as possible
- Reliable and prompt communication with management and stores
- Whether your district manager or an account is trying to contact you, route owners should try and address these communications as soon as possible
- This includes phone, text or email communications
- Support sales and promotional efforts
- The most successful route owners do everything they can to increase sales
- Owners should make it clear to their accounts that they want any additional display space that is available
- If additional space is given, make sure those displays are full of product and setup as management requested
- Add new accounts (if applicable/necessary)
- Most route opportunities allow unlimited expansion as long as it is within the owner’s sales territory
- If a district manager knows you are trying to grow the route they will often help you secure additional accounts in your area
- Be accountable
- This is simple. Be on time, attend meetings, respond to calls/emails, etc.
