Barter DOES Increase Your Cash Flow

It often takes a while for new clients of a barter exchange to fully comprehend the economic benefits of this unique relationship. Some business people are even reluctant to become involved with an organized trading company because they don’t really understand the nature of barter transactions. Quite frequently, a prospective client objects to the program, claiming that he needs cash and can’t afford to trade his merchandise or services. However, an honest, open-minded analyst of most commercial activity will reveal that every business goes through periods in which it has some degree of excess capacity, or is saddled with some unproductive assets. Also, every business has some immediate, legitimate needs which will invariably require an outlay of cash. These needs could range from items such as printing (stationary, business cards, letterheads, forms, etc.) to store remodeling and maintenance; and from media advertising and sign painting to sales promotions and employee incentives - in other words, anything required above and beyond such basics as rent, utilities, and payroll.

While the usual method of acquiring these needed extras is to either write a check, or pay cash for the services, there is a better, more profitable way available.

As an example, let us assume that you need to purchase $400.00 worth of printing work. In accordance with the traditional way of doing business, you would place an order with your local printing company, and when the job is complete, write a $400.00 check to them. This transaction - while necessary - has actually decreased your firm’s available cash reserves.

Now let us consider the same situation, but this time we’ll outline a barter scenario.

You still need $400.00 worth at printing, but instead of subtracting from your cash pool, you utilize your IMS membership and deal with one of the printers in our barter program. This allows you to keep your $400.00 in the bank, because IMS will actually create some new profits for you. We will purchase some of your existing merchandise - possibly even some unproductive, hard-to-move items, such as last year’s models, trade-ins, etc. - and we will purchase these at your normal list price, giving you a full profit margin on the sale. You can then use these newly created incremental profit dollars to pay for your printing work.

This same procedure can be followed to fill many of your other business and personal needs, but the implementation of this program is dependent upon you. You must pick up the ball and get into the game, and you can begin by reading these articles in the Editor’s Choice on the IMS website. You need to become aware of all the products and services that are already available to you through barter, and you should feel free to call our office for help and for further information and ideas. Our staff is ready and willing to show you how to put your trade dollars to work most productively.

Always remember that clients of IMS want to deal with other clients whenever possible. Therefore, you have a built-in market of hundreds of referral customers. In most instances, we can accept as many of your goods and services as you are capable of providing on a trade basis, and through every transaction, you will expand your sales and customer base, increase your profits, and keep your existing cash in the bank. As you can see, barter really does increase your cash flow!


Build Business Value Through Barter
Both the value and borrowing power of a business can increase when an owner takes proactive steps to improve cash flow and reinforce its predictability. When used strategically, barter through IMS can play a major role in enhancing your company's market value and helping you reach long-term goals.
Top Four Trades of April 2025
At the beginning of each new month, we go back and see what the Top 4 Trades were from the previous month. This helps us understand what our clients are looking for and how trade is supporting them in their daily lives and endeavors.
9 Effective Ways to Put Your Trade Dollars To Work
Your people are your greatest asset — and rewarding them doesn't have to strain your cash flow. By using your IMS trade dollars creatively, you can recognize employees, enhance benefits, and boost morale, all while maximizing your resources.
Throw a Bone to Barter: The Curious Case of Walter the Pup
Once upon a time in the foothills of Colorado, a sweet English Cream Golden Retriever named Walter was born with a tail that wagged as if it had its own personality. From the moment he opened his sleepy puppy eyes, it was clear—Walter wasn’t just any puppy. He was special.
Top Four Trades of March 2025
At the beginning of each new month, we go back and see what the Top 4 Trades were from the previous month. This helps us understand what our clients are looking for and how trade is supporting them in their daily lives and endeavors.