Pro Auction Says Buyers Are Turning To Auctions To Defeat Downturn

BATH, ENGLAND, September 24, 2010 (Press-News.org) A GROWING number of cash-strapped consumers across Britain are turning to buying at auctions in their battle to survive the economic slump.

Specialist companies like Pro Auction are enjoying a boom in business as firms and individuals seek out value for money.

The team behind Bath-based Pro Auction, who specialise in selling plant and machinery within the food processing sectors, believe more and more people are catching on to the benefits of specialist auction firms as they try to beat the slump.

Mark Flynn, Director of Pro Auction, said: "Times are tough and people are seeking more value. Buying at auction offers that value.

"We have noticed a definite increase in people seeking better deals as they try to survive the recession by sourcing goods at auction."

Pro Auction are one of the few specialists in the food processing industry that still hold live traditional auctions, which are also simultaneously aired on the internet via live webcasts from the event site. The company also hosts exclusive online auctions and oversees sales by tender and private treaty.

Mark added: "I passionately believe traditional auctions have a role to play for many buyers. They allow people to interact immediately with competing bidders."

Pro Auction has also tapped into the internet, which has created a global marketplace and opened up a huge degree of choice for buyers and excellent commercial opportunities for sellers.

"Live webcasts and online auctions are also really catching on in the food processing industry," added Mark.

"They offer no geographical limits and bidders don't have to spend travel time getting to a site. They can bid from the comfort of their own home or office. Webcasts are live from the auction room, so online bidders can bid against people in the room."

The company also believes that auctions are a great way for sellers in the food processing industry to gain a return on surplus and unwanted goods.

Mark revealed: "Auction fees tend to be fixed, small and can be a quick way to manage the cash flow of a business liquidating stock. Demand for auctions involving food processing and bakery stock sales is high because they are the most affordable way to obtain used food processing machinery."

Pro Auction, founded by Mark and Simon Rose, offers a range of services to ensure the full value of redundant assets are maximised. They specialise in securing and selling food processing machinery and catering equipment. The firm offers its clients a comprehensive service that it says exceeds what traditional auction houses tend to provide, including the marketing of the sale, site preparation, the actual auction, and follow-up with a full site clearance and dismantling service.

Among its recent auctions was the sale of machinery from the former Tees Valley Bakery Limited in Middlesbrough. Pro Auction conducted the auction last week as the hammer came down on the last assets of the business.

Editor's Note: For further information contact Mark Flynn on 01761 414000.

Pro Auction Ltd was launched in Bath, England, in February 2003 by Mark Flynn and Simon Rose - two established experts in the auction field - in response to demand for a professional and affordable auction house specialising in selling plant and machinery within the food processing sectors. Operating solely within the food industry with no associated 'side' businesses, Pro Auction has an in-depth knowledge of the auction marketing and selling process and how the actual machinery works within a 'live' production setting.