Date: Thu, 17 Oct 1996 10:55:07 -0700 (PDT)
From: Larry Hirsch <lah@primeu.cpuc.ca.gov>
Subject: Re: Banquet manager wants cut...
To: balloondeco@fooledya.com

 Karen, I think it might be acceptable if you consider the payment a
commission or referral fee.  A lot of professions and businesses split
fees or give referral payments for jobs completed.  This cannot be too
high and pointing out to the manager that you often have repeat business
from satisfied clients.  The repeat business would not need the commission
and *overcharging* would render you less competitive in the outside
market.  IF you itemize it on the statement as commission and fees then
the customer should understand.  You don't mind a contract for exclusivity
but it should be a reasonable amount and allow you to remain competitive
in the market elsewhere. There are some legitimate reasons to have people 
familiar with a facility repeat work there.  Security, reliability, 
knowing the rules and restrictions etc.  I understand that the convention 
hall in San Francisco will charge a large amount for any helium balloons 
that are found in the ventilation duct work.  It is like $100 or so per 
balloon.   

However, I was planning a function at a facility and they required us to 
use their caterer.  The total price was too high and I went elsewhere. 

Good luck,
Larry Hirsch