Many online sports retailers feature exorbitant prices because their products are so popular. However, Institutional Sports Equipment aims to revive the “Mom and Pop” feel of the industry by adopting an old-school approach to marketing and sales. The brand is a small business where the owner personally brokers the deals and can obtain equipment at a more affordable price, including shipping at a lower cost with a shorter timeframe. 

As other retailers adopt high-tech solutions, big money often falls between the cracks for customers seeking sports equipment. Because the products are large, prices are inflated, and customers are overcharged for shipping. Institutional Sports Equipment manually brokers and ships all products at the guaranteed lowest prices and with the best quality equipment.

When shopping for gym wall padding, commercial wall padding, or other athletic necessities, shopping the old-fashioned way is a cost-effective and reputable way to do business. 

Direct Relationships With Manufacturers

When the founder, Tom Nicotera, started his high school sports equipment company, he had a grassroots approach that still reverberates in his dealings today. He visited local high schools in an effort to ascertain which brands athletic directors and programs preferred. His homework led him to adopt the practice of sourcing products directly from trusted manufacturers, ensuring that he offers only quality brands at affordable prices by eliminating the use of a middleman. 

This traditional approach is endearing to many vendors and customers, and not just financially. Tom takes a hands-on approach, and this business model has served him and his clients well (8,000+ projects over 25 years), proving that his approach to sales and sports equipment makes him a leader in the industry. 

Personalized Deals For a Better Customer Experience

Tom personally negotiates every order, ensuring that the best deal is achieved for all parties involved. Often, when expensive equipment is needed and funds are limited, this sales approach can be a game-changer. This personalized approach not only reflects small-town values but also benefits customers more than a generic, automated pricing structure. 

Institutional Sports Equipment encompasses a wide range of products, from column padding to gym wall padding, and everything in between. 

Lower Shipping Costs Mean More Value

Part of Tom’s singular approach to the purchasing and shipping process of sports equipment is his shipping prices. He understands that bulky equipment is costly to ship, so he brokers freight deals to minimize costs. This enables him to offer all clients a fair price on equipment and endears him to many customers. 

This aspect of the business also involves streamlined order and shipping processes, enabling customers to receive their equipment more quickly. This option highlights Tom’s knowledge and experience in the industry, enabling schools and coaches to receive the best care at a reasonable price point. 

Customer-Centric Service

Tom’s small business model ensures transparency and commitment to the lowest possible price, better outcomes, and avoiding inflation costs. The secret to his success is his experience in the industry and his past efforts to help churches, schools, and municipalities source affordable sporting equipment. He also provides curated recommendations that ensure each customer receives exactly what they are looking for. 

Tom’s passion and commitment to small business principles demonstrate the effectiveness of this model, even today. By sticking to his original business model, the store owner has helped thousands of projects succeed, backed by repeat customers and referrals, which is always the best recommendation when shopping with any retailer.