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| Purchasing |
| A Co-ordinated Approach |
| Drafting the Spec |
| Finding Suppliers |
| Negotiating a Purchase |
| Managing Stock |
| Supplier Relations |
| Reviewing Performance |
Page 4 of 8
Purchasing
3. Finding Suppliers
3.1 Get recommendations from friends and business contacts you trust.
- Ask your local business support organisation for a list of suppliers in your area, or contact your trade association.
- Meet potential suppliers at exhibitions.
- Use business directory websites, such as www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk and www.yell.com.
3.2 Get quotes.
- With your request for a quote, send each supplier a standard checklist covering all your requirements.
- Get suppliers to quote a guaranteed price and state how long it will be valid.
- Ask what discounts you would get if you entered into a long-term supply contract.
- When delegating purchasing to a colleague, provide an informal outline of your requirements. For example, 'I want a brand name colour laser printer that can print at least 10 pages per minute.'
3.3 Compare suppliers in terms of the factors that matter most to you. These may include:
- Product suitability and reliability.
- Speed and frequency of delivery.
- Quality and flexibility of service.
- Price range and order size.
- Location and ease of communication.
- Reputation - ask for evidence of similar work and follow up references.
- Financial position.
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