Whether you’re looking for supplies to maintain a clean and sanitary facility, supplies and equipment to keep your associates safe on the job, packaging supplies, or warehouse and industrial equipment, this guide will help you find the right supplier for janitorial supplies wholesale distributors in Ontario.
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Of course, every business needs suppliers. Unlike raw materials you need to manufacture what you resell, facility supplies help keep your operations running safely and effectively on a daily basis. You can certainly run an operation without them, but they are the glue that holds a facility together.
What is the Definition of a Good Supplier?
Many growing companies focus solely on a single aspect of their suppliers, namely price.
Of course, price is important as you source suppliers to help you maintain or grow your business. But there is much more to the equation than just price (which we’ll examine shortly). Keep in mind that as your business, your vendors are in business to earn a profit. You can’t expect to continually beat them up on price for the long term and expect great service. It’s just human nature. Eventually, they may want to stop selling to your company.
- Reliability
Reliability is our number one factor by which we measure suppliers. The best vendors will ship an accurate number of items, delivered on time, and arrive at your location intact.
Small to mid-size suppliers shouldn’t be overlooked. Being a large customer of a smaller company affords you the luxury of being able to dictate terms, get better service and quick results when you need them the most.
Some companies have a policy of splitting orders between multiple suppliers, i.e. two smaller vendors. This is a great strategy if you can find two reliable, cost-effective sources for the products your business needs to maintain safety, healthy, clean work environments.
- Stability
Next on the list of key factors is stability. It’s generally a good idea to do business with suppliers who have been around for a number of years, who have processes and people in place to give you the best service. Also having experienced upper management is another good sign.
A solid reputation with other customers is another positive attribute. We often check out potential vendors’ online reputation to be sure they are meeting the mark. Keep an eye out for vendor trouble, such as early delivery (and invoicing) to accelerate their cash receipts.
- Location
Proximity to your facility is another key factor for choosing a vendor. Even if you get the best price on the planet, and pay a minimal amount for shipping if your janitorial supplier in Ontario is far away you may not be able to get the supplies you need in time.
Many vendors offer free ground shipping but may charge for rush delivery. It’s important to determine your supplier’s shipping policies before you order (or perhaps before you hire them) so you’re not left holding the bag for a huge freight bill.
Your best bet is to find a supplier close by that offers the product lines that you need to maintain a safe and healthy work environment at your facility. Alternatively, if the supplier has warehouse locations in your city and other cities, they can probably provide the best service.
- Competency
The final key factor: simple competency.
It’s important to do business with a vendor that offers product lines that comply with current health and safety requirements in your area. You’ll want to work with companies that offer updated, modern products. The supplier should have a courteous/friendly, eager, well-trained, helpful staff that can service your needs in a reasonable time period. They should offer attractive financial terms on your purchases