Exploring cost savings; Consolidation
Consolidation.
Anyone familiar with purchasing consumables would understand the complexities of ensuring quality products are always available before they are required.
Complexities include the stress of managing multiple suppliers, invoices, deliveries, and backorders, as well as monitoring stock levels whilst also balancing the demand for cost efficiencies with the high-quality standards food processing mandates.
The solution? Consolidation.
Many Corporations use their buying power to navigate contracts and tenders. Consolidation and its benefits, however, are open to the entire food processing industry, with Foodcare’s range with over 10,000 SKUs in stock and available to order for same-day dispatch.
Key benefits of consolidation:
Efficiency: One order, one invoice, and one delivery simplifies the process, saving time and effort. Using a supplier who understands your preferences around delivery location and timing ensures orders arrive as desired.
Time and Energy Savings: Dealing with one supplier reduces daily tasks and builds a strong rapport through a thorough knowledge and understanding of your site requirements.
Ease of Delegation: A simplified process allows for easy delegation, ensuring consistency even when you're absent.
Priority Service: Being a valued customer results in priority service and additional benefits like performance management and faster deliveries.
Environmental Benefits: Consolidating with one supplier reduces deliveries, packaging wastage, and transportation fuel, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Cost savings are a significant consolidation feature, as increased spending with one supplier allows for negotiated pricing and package deals.
Selecting the right supplier is crucial:
Stock Range: You will need to choose your supplier based on one aligned with your needs. A specialised supplier to one product range, for instance paper towel, or a company without the buying power to access industry specific tools will struggle to facilitate your needs.
Positive Experience: A company you have a good rapport with will smooth the transition and allow you to get the full benefit of consolidation. Customer service is everything, from timely deliveries to friendly and efficient phone service, which will amplify the experience.
Communication and Transparency: Trust is essential, so prioritise suppliers who provide clear communication and visibility around orders and processes.
Reliability and Reviews: A reliable supplier not only offers a wide range of stock but also efficiently manages orders, catering to your preferences. Positive reviews from similar businesses further reinforce confidence in their services.
To get started, engage with potential suppliers through video meetings or onsite visits to discuss their services and how they would manage the transition. Address any concerns with your chosen supplier regarding continuity of supply.
Whether you choose consolidation or not, exploring cost-saving options with your suppliers based on increased spend is a valuable exercise.
