One big advantage the larger companies have is an ability to manage their vendors to perform in the way they want. They can and do drive ordering method, price, packaging, shipping logistics, payment terms, and return policies. They do so because they have a choice of vendors, it is to their financial advantage, and because the amount of business their size represents gets the attention of their vendors. What many smaller businesses don't realize or act on is that they often have many of the same options and motivations, albeit on a smaller scale.
When is the last time you went through a structured review of your vendors and analyzed what you would like them to do for you? How could changes in the way your vendors do things help your business? Many small business owners don't realize the opportunities they have to drive their vendors' business methods. While you may not be able to drive deep pricing discounts, there are things that can improve your bottom line based on affordable vendor accommodations. Let XBC help you explore your options for effective "win-win" vendor management strategies. You might be pleasantly surprised with the results.