Last year, we welcomed a large Tennessee-based business to the Le Bleu East Tennessee custom-label experience. We’ve enjoyed working with the business over the last few months. This month’s blog focuses on the feedback we’ve received from Daniel Langston, Executive Assistant at KaTom Restaurant Supply, Inc., about our process, delivery and ability to keep up with the needs of the business. KaTom is a leading wholesale supplier of restaurant equipment and supplies based in East Tennessee.
The Search for a New Supplier
KaTom’s journey to Le Bleu East Tennessee began with an unexpected challenge. For over eight years, KaTom relied on their previous vendor for personalized bottled water, a staple in their showroom and corporate meetings. These branded bottles were more than just a refreshment—they were a reflection of KaTom’s commitment to quality and professionalism. When their vendor discontinued the specific bottle KaTom depended on, the company was left in a difficult position. “When we reached out, they informed us they wouldn’t be continuing with that product and simply said that sometimes in business, you have to accept change,” Langston explained.
This response was a turning point for KaTom and a great opportunity for our team at Le Bleu East Tennessee. Unwilling to compromise on their needs, the team began searching for a new supplier who could deliver the quality, reliability, and flexibility they required. A Google search led Langston to Le Bleu East Tennessee.
Why Le Bleu East Tennessee Stood Out
Switching vendors after nearly a decade is no small decision, especially for a company like KaTom, where consistency and brand image are paramount. So, what made Le Bleu East Tennessee the clear choice? According to Langston, it was our customer-first approach and willingness to collaborate that sealed the deal.
“One of the biggest factors was your willingness to work with us to find a suitable bottle size,” Langston said. “While the new bottles don’t match exactly to what we had before, your team showed a real commitment to making it work. That flexibility and partnership mindset was something we didn’t experience with our previous vendor, and it made all the difference in our decision to switch.”
Our design team took the time to understand KaTom’s unique needs and worked closely with them to find a solution. We took the time to visit the office and observe the refrigerators and spaces that store the waters at the expansive headquarters. We presented samples so the team could taste the difference of Le Bleu ultra pure water and also hold the new bottles in hand to make sure our product presentation would work for their purposes.
“One thing that really stood out was how smooth and collaborative the design process was,” Langston shared. “We didn’t feel like we were just placing an order—we felt like we were building something together. The attention to detail on the bottle design and your team’s responsiveness made it easy and even enjoyable.”
The shorter 12 ounce bottles fit perfectly in refrigerators around the KaTom offices.
A Seamless Transition and Impressive Turnaround
For any business, switching suppliers comes with concerns about disruptions and delays. KaTom, however, experienced a remarkably smooth transition thanks to Le Bleu East Tennessee’s preparedness and efficiency. From the moment they placed their first order, Langston noticed a level of reliability that exceeded expectations.
“You really surprised us with how prepared and responsive you were,” Langston said. Commenting on the on-going orders after the design approval and initial delivery, Langston said, “We typically receive delivery the very next day, which is very impressive and exceeded our expectations. It’s clear that reliability and service are priorities for your team, and that’s been a big win for us.”
This next-day delivery standard has become a cornerstone of KaTom’s experience with Le Bleu East Tennessee. In an industry where timelines are tight and reliability is non-negotiable, our ability to deliver consistently and quickly has set a new benchmark for what KaTom expects from a supplier. Stakeholders at KaTom were particularly pleased with the turnaround time, noting that Le Bleu East Tennessee’s efficiency made the transition seamless and stress-free.
The Le Bleu Difference: Service and Partnership
When asked about the biggest difference between Le Bleu East Tennessee and their previous vendor, Langston didn’t hesitate. “The biggest difference is the level of service and willingness to collaborate,” he said. “With Le Bleu East Tennessee, we’ve felt like a valued partner from day one. You took the time to understand our needs and worked with us to find a solution—even when it wasn’t a perfect match to what we had before. That kind of flexibility and customer-first attitude really set you apart.”
This customer-centric approach is at the heart of Le Bleu East Tennessee’s operations. Unlike KaTom’s previous vendor, who viewed change as something to be accepted, we saw it as an opportunity to innovate and adapt. Whether it was finding a suitable bottle size or perfecting the design of KaTom’s branded bottles, our team approached every challenge with a solutions-oriented mindset.
The impact of this partnership extends beyond just the logistics of bottled water. For KaTom, the branded bottles are a subtle yet powerful way to reinforce their brand identity. Every time a visitor or client reaches for a bottle, they’re reminded of KaTom’s commitment to quality and attention to detail. We at Le Bleu East Tennessee are proud that our custom products play a role in KaTom’s successful branding on a daily basis.
Consistency in Usage, Elevated in Experience
KaTom’s water usage remained constant after the switch to Le Bleu East Tennessee. “We’re using about the same amount of bottles as we were before working with Le Bleu East Tennessee,” Langston confirmed. What has changed, however, is the overall experience. From the collaborative design process to the reliability of next-day deliveries, Le Bleu East Tennessee has elevated what was once a routine partnership into something far more impactful.
The branded bottles continue to serve as a conversation starter, with guests frequently commenting on their sleek design and premium quality. For KaTom, this is a testament to the power of small details in creating a lasting impression. “It’s a small touch that makes a big impact,” Langston reiterated, crediting Le Bleu East Tennessee for helping them achieve that perfect balance of form and function.
Looking Ahead: A Partnership Built to Last
KaTom’s decision to switch to Le Bleu East Tennessee was born out of necessity, but it has grown into a partnership defined by trust, reliability, and shared goals. By prioritizing service, flexibility, and collaboration, Le Bleu East Tennessee has not only met KaTom’s needs but exceeded them in ways that have redefined what a supplier can be.
For businesses considering a new supplier for personalized bottled water, KaTom’s experience offers a compelling testimony. In an industry where reliability and brand image are everything, Le Bleu East Tennessee strives to stand out as a partner that goes above and beyond. As Langston put it, “You took the time to understand our needs and worked with us to find a solution. That kind of flexibility and customer-first attitude really set you apart.”
As KaTom continues to grow and serve its clients, one thing is clear: with Le Bleu East Tennessee by their side, they have a partner they can count on to deliver—both literally and figuratively.
If you’d like more information about custom-water products for your business and/or event, visit lebleuwater.com/custom and email us at custom@lebleuwater.com