How do I prepare my linen route drivers for a buyer’s visit?

Decide first what you will say about the sale and when. Drivers deal with customers every day and will hear rumours quickly, so a short, calm conversation from you is better than hallway talk. Say who the visitor is, what they will watch, and that no one is being judged.

Then handle the practical side. Choose routes that show the business fairly, including a difficult one. Make sure vehicles are in their normal state and the paperwork is current. Brief the drivers on customer privacy: the buyer should not be handed account details on the road, and your lawyer can advise on what is shared and when.

Give each driver a chance to ask questions beforehand. Many worry about their route, their pay and the buyer’s plans. Answer what you can and promise to find out the rest. Do not promise terms on behalf of the buyer. After the visit, ask the drivers how it went and whether the buyer asked anything unexpected. Their view can help you before the next conversation. Thank them afterwards, because the visit takes their time and attention on top of a full route.

Key takeaways

• Speak to drivers yourself before the visit so rumours do not get there first.
• Pick routes that show the business honestly, including the harder ones.
• Do not promise pay or job terms on behalf of the buyer.