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.yell.com, www.scoot.co.uk, and www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk.

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 at least an informal outline of what you want. For example, 'I want a name brand printer of the sort usually used by businesses like mine.'

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.