In my old business, suppliers were often happy to pay or contribute to signage - shop and vehicle. But you have to talk to them first. I would be highly surprised if your Baxi rep did not have funds available, I found the best approach was to ask if they would pay all or part, and have 2 or more contributors, that way you can have more of s free hand with the design, including adding in any non contributors(that you feel, never the less, to be prominent). You probably have a favourite, say, magnetic filter, so approach, say, Adey and explain that there product will be the brand automatically offered unless otherwise specified, but you need some support. You will soon learn what turns on the trade, and adapt your appeals accordingly. But do it with an air of quiet confidence.
Typically, they won't part with hard cash, but offer the same in product at your normal trade price.
Remember the first rule: Don't ask, don't get. And remember that while it pays to be friendly with reps - you never know when you need a favour - they are not friends. So don't be embarrassed by pushing the boundaries a little, they actually need you more than you need them. (generally). But always do it with good heart and a smile, they are human.
Having said that, a competitor of ours in a neighbouring town was a pig to most reps - it still amazes me how much inside info we got. They tried to avoid meeting him, and he only ever got what he was strictly entitled to.
Good luck with your venture, where will you be located?
