How to Navigate a Kitchen Supply Store

The kitchen supply store has become a staple at malls and shopping centers across the country. In addition to the 24-hour food programming available on cable television the retail world feeds the desire to painstakingly prepare the perfect feast. The dizzying array of tools, gadgets and accoutrement for the novice and professional chefs can be overwhelming for one used to picking up a carrot peeler in aisle of the grocery store. Whether it be a restaurant supply store or an upscale retailer, there is something new to please even the fussiest of cooks who may think they have it all.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Paper and pen to jot down notes

1. Understand that a kitchen supply store is laid out with the same motive as any other retail outlet: to entice the consumer to purchase more. Seasonal items and “special” merchandise will greet you at the door. A variety of impulse buys punctuate the cashier kiosk, i.e. Barbie-sized canisters, refrigerator magnets, mini-scissors, tiny candies and the like. The clearance or sale items are typically in the back of the store, the farthest away from the entrance. Other areas or islands may include bar, cookware, table top, linens, books, storage, mixing, baking, kids, seafood, ethnic, barbecue, coffee/tea, cleaning supplies and food items such as oils, spices and mixes. Merchandise is moved frequently to keep the sales floor looking fresh and new.
2. Clustered together, usually along a wall, are electronics. Waffle makers, milk frothers, espresso machines, mixers and other electrical items are grouped together by the common denominator of needing to be plugged in.
3. Take your time to browse and digest the merchandise. Inspiration will hit. Write down those recipe ideas, kitchen reorganization techniques, wish list items and whatever else tickles your fancy.
4. Ask for help. Though very friendly and efficient, it is common for the staff at kitchen supply stores to take a hands-off approach and let customers browse. The service-oriented staff can offer their opinion on the merits of a particular knife over another. If the store doesn’t stock the item you are after, a clerk will name an outlet that may carry it. If they are out stock, they’ll call sister stores and have it sent to you or their store. They can let you know when the next sale is or help locate whatever you are after.
5. Sign up for the store's catalog and/or email. Recipients are the first to hear about new merchandise and events.
6. Learn about extra service. A sales associate will be happy to inform you. Are there cooking classes? Do they sharpen knives? Is there an extra charge for gift wrapping? What are the shipping constraints? Are there special discounts for professionals in the food industry?

Tips & Warnings

• Ask for a discount. Don’t be shy about getting 15 percent off if you are taking a floor model and there’s no box. Only one cutting board left with scratches on it? Ask for a discount.