A Q&A on the Perks of Membership
For any distributor, it’s a relatively simple equation that hasn’t changed for centuries: effective training, good processes, and quality products equal a satisfied customer (and a thriving business). But as current events have shown us, the unexpected can quickly add variables to that equation. Now more than ever, it’s clear that when it comes to creating a satisfied customer and a satisfactory bottom line: “the tools of the trade” refer to more than just the people and equipment you have in your corner.

As a cooperative, BLUE HAWK’s independent Members come together to create scale that gives each Member an edge. To take that one step further, our partnership with Savings4Members sharpens and extends that edge. By partnering with BLUE HAWK and hundreds of groups like it, Savings4Members has built a cooperative network entirely focused on connecting Members with even greater scale, cost-cutting benefits, and a full team to help them take advantage.

But this edge cuts a little differently, so we talked to Veronica Pratt, 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 Veronica, Savings4Members is already working with many BLUE HAWK Members. For those yet to take advantage of this benefit, are there any updates Members should know about?”

Veronica Pratt (V.P.): BIG updates – and there are even more to come. For the past year we’ve been focused on making it faster and easier for Members to take full advantage of their benefits. The biggest upgrade Members will notice right away is our completely overhauled Member Dashboard. Here, we’ve made it easier than ever for Members to check out the discounts they have access to, activate them, and quickly get in touch with a Savings Expert by phone, email, or online chat.

How should a Member get started with their discounts?

V.P.: It’s very easy. Members can call 844-346-3746 and talk to a Savings Expert immediately, they can chat with someone via the chat option on our website, or they can access their Savings Dashboard online 24/7 by entering their business email address at myS4M.com. The best part about that is there’s no need to remember a username or password. All a Member needs to do is enter their email and a link to their unique Savings Dashboard will be e-mailed directly.

In addition to monthly email updates on new, updated, or recommended perks – our Savings Experts 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 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 great 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 BLUE HAWK 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. If there is one benefit I encourage every Member to start with, it’s credit card processing – and the reason is pretty simple. 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 you need is a copy of your most recent processing statement. Last year, the average Member saved over $7,000 in processing fees. That’s an easy bottom-line boost and just one example of how your benefits 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. BLUE HAWK Members have access to some incredible fuel discounts for fleets. But often, we hear: “I don’t have a fleet – just a handful of trucks.” And that’s more than enough to qualify for a nice discount. Many of the distributors we work with put a lot of miles on their vehicles, and these fuel benefits can make every one of those miles more profitable – especially when fuel prices go back on the rise.

How should Members learn more about the benefits available through their BLUE HAWK membership?

V.P.: If you’re a Member and you haven’t done it yet, definitely visit your Savings Dashboard. There’s no need for a login or password, just enter your email at mys4m.com for your unique link. This makes it easy to access your benefits, see what programs you’re already taking advantage of, and any next steps required.

As a dedicated BLUE HAWK Alliance Partner, Savings4Members exists to tip the scales in favor of Member businesses across North America. Every week, the Savings4Members team actively supports Members with comprehensive cost-cutting services and easy access to benefits 100% focused on boosting profitability. Every Member has access to a unique savings dashboard. To access yours, just enter your business email address at mys4m.com and Savings4Members will send your unique link.