Licensed Trade Stocktakers
Mark S. Elliott has spent 25 years working in various management roles within the tenanted and leased divisions of the UK's largest breweries and pub companies. His extensive knowledge and day-to-day involvement with pubs and publicans make him well qualified to know what is required to run a successful pub. He shares his knowledge and many 'insider tips' with you in this book. Mark is based in Cockermouth, Cumbria.
LICENSED TRADE STOCKTAKERS
What they can help you with
Stocktakers provide an essential service to the licensed trade. Their role is to value the stock you have in hand, calculate how much you have used, check your stock usage against your records, and calculate gross profit margins. They can spot stock losses including theft and wastage, and suggest how you can resolve these problems. They can assist you with pricing your products as well. You are advised to use them for the following:
- Valuing your stock on ingoing day.
- Providing you with a monthly stocktaking service and report.
Choosing a stocktaker
The brewery, pub company or other licensees are likely to be able to recommend good stocktakers in your area. The Institute of Licensed Trade Auditors is a body that represents stocktakers in the UK and Republic of Ireland. It has over 400 members and provides training for new stock-takers. Members use the letters FILSA or MILSA after their names to signify that they are qualified members of the Institute. Their website: www.iltsa.co.uk provides more information and lists of stocktakers by region.
Other factors to consider
Most stocktakers these days use laptop or handheld computers to help them take stock and provide a stock report for their clients. It is very useful to have a report prepared on the same day that the stocktaker is on site, rather than it be sent to you later. A good stocktaker will discuss the report with you and make recommendations. The reports can be quite complex and it is worth taking time to ask your stocktaker to explain them to you.
Choosing a stocktaker that operates in your geographical area is beneficial. Not only will contact be easier, but they will also know the local market, which is useful when considering what prices to charge and which products sell well in the area.
