TONY KAMMERLANDER, ENERGY ACCOUNTING MANAGER
Like many businesses today, we at UFC are facing some staffing challenges as experienced employees move towards retirement or move on to other opportunities. However, we are committed to continuing to provide top-notch service to our customers and member-owners during this time. One of the ways we are doing that is by streamlining how we handle customer calls and requests with the best tech available to us.
I encourage all our customers to call our Energy Department directly at 507-232-1048 whenever you are in need of products or services. Our team is available to take your calls Monday through Friday from 8am to 4pm. Outside of those hours, you will have the option to leave a message that will be promptly returned the next business day. Or, you can opt to speak with our live answering service who will contact the appropriate on-call employee right away to handle any urgent afterhours needs. In other words, if you need us, we’re there for you.
By routing calls through this central number, it allows our skilled drivers to focus on the most vital part of their job – getting you, the customer, the products and services you need in a timely manner. Taking numerous calls throughout their route day can be disruptive and inefficient. If we do have a question and need to contact you directly, please make sure we have a good contact number on file so we can reach out if the need arises.
Utilizing a streamlined call system also assists us on the operations side in routing drivers efficiently, especially when someone is out on vacation or for other reasons. The technology in our software allows us to quickly pivot to continue providing prompt service to you. This centralized system brings improved responsiveness that translates into cost savings for our producers.
Here at UFC, we are always working towards improvements for the future. We are in the process of upgrading our bulk fuel plants and equipment. Installing bottom-loading capabilities allows for quicker, safer fuel loading by our drivers. By keeping their feet safely on the ground rather than climbing to top-fill, it greatly reduces the chance of injury from slips or falls. Avoiding injuries helps keep our team at full strength so we can continue to meet your needs.
I also want to remind you that we offer daily fuel and propane contracting options. With the potential for rapid market fluctuations, our team monitors and adjusts contract pricing every day. Locking in a known input cost now allows you to better estimate your position for the season ahead. Please contact us to discuss how contracting can provide you with a measure of certainty during uncertain times.
At UFC, our mission is to provide our member-owners and customers with responsive service and efficient operations. We appreciate your business and look forward to continuing to work together to help your operation succeed.
“Here at UFC, we are always working towards improvements for the future.”