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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
— It's not a new idea, just one that
has been forgotten by many businesses. But now, bartering is making a
comeback and could keep your struggling business alive. Despite the recession, business has been good for Michael Campagno, owner of Casa De Amore Italian restaurant, "It's a tough business but it's rewarding too." While he credits their food and atmosphere, he partly credits an old-school business concept. Campagno is a member of International Monetary Systems (IMS), a barter exchange that works on trade dollars, "Little by little, it all adds up and the next thing you know, you have IMS trade credit to spend. And if you spend it in the right away, it could be beneficial to your business." For every meal he serves to another IMS member, Campagno earns trade dollars that he can use with other members. He already got the floors done, added some TV's, even got a gift for his employees. "I sent all of my employees to the spa - all the ladies. They loved it." He saves over $20,000 a year. |
Kevin Anderson with IMS says
bartering is making a comeback, "We have seen an increase in
membership. We will get 10 to 20 new members a month." Bartering is also working for Horizon Park Dental. Office Manager Christine Hansen says it's saved their business thousands, "We had our Christmas party through IMS., we had our bonuses through IMS. and we gave our employees gift cards that they could purchase through IMS." In return, they give other barter members dental work. "We've done an Invisalign case and a full set of veneers through IMS." Hansen says "it's businesses helping other businesses." She even has some trade dollars ready to spend at Casa De Amore. Even if it's on trade, all of the owners agree any little bit helps. Owners say another benefit to bartering is good word of mouth. If barter members like your services, referrals and recommendations are priceless. |
