When you are running a business, you can find that time is not always on your side. You can find that you make compromises about what you do, what you sell and provide, and even which suppliers you use.
If you are making compromises when it comes to suppliers, you may notice that this has a ripple effect on other areas of your business. Avoiding settling with poor providers and suppliers at all costs will be hugely beneficial for your business and its future and stability.
Why You May Need New Suppliers
If your existing supplier has ever let you down, then you will know the knock-on effect with your customers. Poor quality products and those that are late arriving will have an impact on your business, and over time this will create a negative reputation (that can be very hard to shake).
Top Tip: Establish what you need and want from a new supplier. What must they bring to a new partnership or link? Must they bring flexibility (in terms of payment or delivery)? Or must they allow you to open a line of credit? What is beneficial for your business, and how can a supplier or provider accommodate this?
Reaching Out to Experts
To get the best products, you need to use the experts. Use those suppliers with industry knowledge and expertise. Always use those that build your confidence and leave you feeling knowledgeable and well-informed. Those suppliers that take time to reach out to you and answer any questions or queries you may have are the ones you should be focusing your efforts on. If you are not using the experts, you may find that you are purchasing supplies and products that you do not require or even need.
For example, if you are purchasing tattoo equipment and suppliers for your shop, you want to reach out to Barber DTS, who can supply you with high-quality products such as Eternal Ink. In the short term, this may not impact your business. However, it may have an impact on your projected profit margins.
Top Tip: Always consider a supplier’s terms and conditions before agreeing to do business. For instance, they may have a minimum order requirement in place. Or they may insist on exclusivity with you. Take your time to read the small print, and do not be tempted to sign something that you have not read through thoroughly.
Looking Outside Your Local Area
You may be currently using suppliers or providers that are close to your place of work or business premises. These may be suppliers you have used for a while, or they may be ones you have settled with out of convenience. However, when you break down the suppliers you use, are you getting the best deal by doing this, and what is stopping you from looking further afield? Reaching out to suppliers in other parts of the country can save you time and money and help you build stronger relationships with suppliers and providers that genuinely care about your business.
David Prior
David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.
