Entering into the cremation market is an important decision that carries with it a tremendous business opportunity. A critical component of your success depends upon selecting the best strategic partners to help support your efforts today, tomorrow and in the years to come. A decision this important requires a careful evaluation of all the benefits a provider has to offer. Matthews has developed this guide to help you sort through the most vital elements that will determine your long term success.
Tell me about:
Your Company- The stability of the company you choose to work with is essential. Be sure you feel comfortable with their promise to be there for you in the next 10, 15 or 20 years. Excellence comes from experience; make sure they have a proven track record.
Q -How long have you been in business?
A- Matthews has been in business for 150+ years, with over 50 years’ experience designing cremation equipment, accessories and services.
Q – How many customers do you have?
A – As the largest provider, we have over 3500 satisfied customers all around the world.
Q – What long term references can you provide?
A – As the oldest provider, Matthews can provide testimonials from over 30+ years of outstanding service. Time tested and proven track record of success.
Q – What have you done to advance the industry?
A – Matthews is the only approved provider of the Operator Certification Training Course required by most states. We host numerous educational series each year on topics ranging from liability exposure, business development and even pet cremation. We lead the industry in the research and development of technological advancements, to help cremation become even more environmentally friendly.
Your Products- Not all cremators are created equal. Without understanding the differences, it would be easy to purchase an inferior product, which can represent a potential risk to your safety, your business, your reputation and your investment!
Q-Is your cremator UL Listed in accordance to the stringent safety and design standards of UL 791 as required by state code?
A – Yes. We carry the UL certification on every component of the equipment, not just the control panel or selected parts. This assures you that every unit is built to the strictest US safety and operational standards available.
Q – Lots of companies boast about their touch screen control panel; will yours talk to me?
A – Matthews is the only company to offer the ILC, or Intuitive Logic Control panel. Other touch screen controls are simply digital replacements of buttons and switches. The ILC is a smart thinking computer, which interacts with you based on your input. You tell the computer what the next case is going to be, and it will automatically select the appropriate settings for the most efficient cremation cycle possible. The only truly interactive control panel.
Q – Can you troubleshoot my equipment remotely from the factory?
A – Matthews is the only company with remote diagnostic software. Your service technicians can view your cremator in real time from any computer in the world through the internet. We can perform troubleshooting, diagnostics and training without the need for an inspection visit!
Q – How efficient are your machines?
A – With the highest quality and thickest insulation, the heat energy remains inside the cremator, where you need it. Even with exceedingly high temperatures inside, you may touch the side walls of the unit, and see that they are cool to the touch. This indicates that the heat is not escaping due to poor insulation.
Your Services – There is more to being an industry leader than simply manufacturing. Be sure your provider offers extensive services before, during and after the sale. Do they have the depth of resources you will need to implement your strategy or will you be left holding the bag?
Q – Tell me about your service department. Do you have Regional Service Centers? Which is the closest to my location?
A - We have the largest and most experienced service department of any crematory provider, with over 30 technicians stationed in strategic regional locations all around the country. We only use factory certified technicians, so you can be sure that each of them is intimately familiar with the specific details of your unit. We do not use third party service technicians. Our service staff have a combined total of over 500 years of technical experience!
Q – Can you offer turn-key services, from beginning to end?
A – Absolutely. From local zoning support to environmental permitting, from delivery to installation, we can bundle all the services for a true turn-key operation. That is why Matthews is the exclusive total solutions provider.
Q – What type of training do you offer?
A – After the installation is complete, your factory technician will spend a few days with you to instruct you and your staff on the safe and proper operation of the unit, so you can learn at your location on your unit.
Q – Do you outsource any work?
A – If your provider uses a third party to manufacture your equipment, what value do they offer? What control do they have over the construction process? What if the manufacturer cuts corners? When something goes wrong, who takes responsibility, the dealership or the manufacturer? Who will cover the warranty?
Q – How will you help me obtain local zoning?
A- In the event of a zoning hearing, Matthews will send your representative to testify on your behalf. We will appear as the industry expert to support you in the permitting process. Together, we will help to educate the community leaders to help lead you to approval.
CONCLUDING >>>
Before you enter into a working relationship with a crematory provider, get the facts. Make sure they can address each one of these vitally important areas to your satisfaction. Remember, being an industry leader goes far beyond simply providing the equipment. Don’t trust your business with anything less!
Fernando Schilling - MCD Matthews Cremation Division para o Brasil e América Latina - Brazilian and South America Sales Rep
