Finding the right suppliers is critical when establishing and operating a successful business.  Whether you are sourcing raw materials, stock items, plant and equipment, vehicles, packaging, labelling or consumables, you will need to consider issues such as:

• price
• minimum order quantity
• trading terms
• freight costs
• delivery options
• product handling
• quality control

You may also need to implement a Stock Management System or some other form of inventory control.

A good way to locate suppliers such as manufacturers or wholesalers is to conduct a search using Yellow Pages Online. The Business Resource Centre produces a useful guide to using Yellow Pages Online as well as other resources to help you locate suppliers. The guide is included as part of the PlanSMART Kit - a market and industry information package tailored according to the type and location of your business.

Industry Associations

To help identify business opportunities, it's a good idea to network with your industry association and other similar businesses. Contact your relevant industry association to obtain information about tender opportunities within your industry.