How to Find Business Suppliers?
When you start up your business, you need to find business suppliers who will provide your products
It’s rare to find a business that doesn’t have to rely on some kind of supplier. You probably already know this if you are in business yourself. But as examples, we’re thinking of timber suppliers for those in the construction industry, catering equipment suppliers for those in the food business, and office suppliers for those who erm… work in offices! Business suppliers are the people who provide you with the goods and services you need, and you won’t get very far without them.
So, how can you choose the right supplier for you? Well, going beyond the obvious – don’t hire anybody that isn’t directly related to your business – there are a few other things to take into account to ensure you aren’t wasting money in the process. Consider the following.
Where to find business suppliers?
A quick Google search will suffice, although suppliers will usually advertise themselves in industry magazines and newspapers.
Attending events and exhibitions is another way to meet potential business suppliers, as is speaking to people already familiar with your business to pass recommendations onto you. When you have found a supplier, there are some key factors you need to take into consideration. These are outlined below.
Supply Factor #1: Reputation
If the supplier has been in business for a while, they will have earned themselves a positive or a negative reputation. To find out more, you should Google their business online and type in ‘reviews’ next to their name. You will then be in a position to read what other people have to say about them.
Beware of ‘fake reviews,’ however, and perhaps double-check sources if any contact details are available to you. You should also speak to people within your industry, asking them for recommendations, and opinions about which suppliers are best avoided.
Supply Factor #2: Pricing
If you’re new in business, you will need to consider your budget when choosing a supplier. Thankfully, many suppliers are in competition with each other, so you may be able to source a good deal with one of them.
Don’t always go for the cheapest option, however. Sometimes you get what you pay for, so beware those suppliers with dirt-cheap prices as their product or service may not be of the best quality.
Supply Factor #3: Location
Where is the supplier based? If they are some distance away, there may be a lengthy wait for products to be delivered to you. You may also have to incur some of the shipping expenses.
However, there may be those companies who offer free shipping, especially if you are placing orders in bulk. In some cases, you may prefer to use a local supplier. Not only is this a great way to support other local businesses, but it also means you will get your hands on what you need quickly, especially when in an emergency.
Final thoughts
In your search for a supplier, don’t pin all your business onto one company. Look for alternatives. You’ll need those companies you can call on as a backup should your regular supplier fail to deliver the goods (literally and proverbially). You may also be able to leverage one against the other and get better deals as a result.
So, we hope this simple advice has been helpful, but if you have any further advice regards finding the right suppliers in business, please let us know.