Top Four Trades of September 2025

Don't let the cash expenses of October chill your bones! Read up on the top 4 trades of September to discover what you can spend your trade on without the thrill.

Tool and equipment rentals are a practical and budget-friendly way to get the job done right without the hassle of thinking, "How am I going to make this tool purchase worthwhile in the near future?" With access to top-quality, professional-grade tools from clients in the IMS Barter network, you can take on any project while avoiding the cash expense of buying. Rentals on trade give you flexibility, letting you choose exactly what you need when you need it, without worrying about maintenance or storage. And if you’re thinking about purchasing in the future, renting first allows you to test the right tools and ensure you’re making a smart, confident investment.

For a restaurant owner, dependable refrigeration isn’t optional—it’s the backbone of your business. Investing in professional repair protects your valuable inventory from spoilage, keeps your kitchen compliant with health regulations, and ensures you’re always ready to serve your customers. A quick, expert fix can mean the difference between a smooth dinner rush and a costly shutdown. Plus, maintaining your equipment helps it run efficiently, saving on energy bills and extending its lifespan. With refrigeration repair, you’re not just fixing a problem—you’re preserving your products, your cash profits, and your reputation by investing in refrigeration repairs on trade.

Hearing aids are more than a medical device. They’re an investment in your overall well-being as a business owner, but also as a person. By restoring clarity and confidence, they help you stay engaged in conversations, strengthen relationships, and enjoy life’s everyday moments without strain or frustration. With better hearing, you gain greater awareness of your surroundings, enhancing safety at home and in public. Addressing hearing loss early supports brain health, helping you stay sharp, connected, and emotionally balanced. Hearing aids don’t just improve how you hear—they improve how you live. Contact your broker today to discover where you can find hearing aids.

Investing in a well-rounded wine program is a smart way to elevate your restaurant’s dining experience while strengthening your bottom line. A carefully chosen selection enhances your menu, pairs beautifully with signature dishes, and leaves a lasting impression on guests. Bulk purchasing through the IMS Marketplace reduces per-bottle costs, boosting profit margins while allowing room to feature premium options that encourage upselling—and saves you cash! A thoughtfully curated wine list also reinforces your brand’s reputation and keeps customers returning for memorable dining experiences. With a stocked cellar, you’re always prepared for events, seasonal demand, and guest favorites, making wine a key ingredient in your restaurant’s success.

Top 4 Trades of August 2026
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.
Check These Out! California Edition
With summer just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about summer vacations. Don’t worry, the IMS Travel Department has a few properties you should check out.
Friendship Marketing: The Barter Strategy Every Business Should Know
IMS Barter is uniquely positioned for the new era of friendship marketing—and how using barter within this relationship-rich environment can deliver meaningful, measurable savings.
Should You Be Thinking About Retirement Right Now?
The answer is yes! The year 2020 has shaken many and brought their focus back to basic needs. But one that may be overlooked right now is the subject of retirement. Even though it might not seem important, it may be more important than ever, especially since the studies have shown that the number one financial worry of working people is that they don’t have enough saved to retire.
​10 Things to do the Day Before a Business Trip
Are you going on your first business trip for the first time in two years? Feeling a little out of the groove? Not sure what to make sure to do before your departure date? Well, no worries! We thought to give you a little checklist of things to do the day before your next business trip.