How to ask?

sjp1966

I am not sure if this is in the right forum, if not please feel free to move.

Basically I am after some advise. I want to approach a company that sells to the trade to resell goods (I have my own company name set up) but I am not really sure how to approach companies in terms of asking if they will sell to me and if so what their discount would be.

Of course you could ask the question just like that but it seems a little blunt to me and before I go off and try it I was wondering if anyone could offer any advise on how to actually approach these companies with what to say, be it on the phone or via email.

Regards

Steve

geordie_joe

A lot depends on the company, and how it operates. But if you let them know you are interested in their products you will probably find they will do all the work. You will then be a potential customer, and they should do all they can to turn you into a real customer.

Just write to them, letter or email, and say you are interested in their products and can they give you more information.

sjp1966

thanks Joe, I never thought of it that way around actually (doh!) Ill try that.

fuzzball172

You don't !!!!! foot around in the supermarket, wondering if they will sell you a loaf of bread, buying stock should be the same. Ask for a quote, when they offer you a price you can either place an order or ask if that is their best price. Many businesses expect to haggle on qoutes so add a little on to initial qoutes, do give the impression of a good discount to get your business.
Ways to get deals, play suppliers against each other, to get a better price.
Ask if you get a better price on a larger order, ask if it can be taken over a period of time. In effect you commit to buying a bulk order, but take delivery and get invoiced over a period of time.
Instead of discount as for more product for the same price, this is in effect cheaper for the supplier and you may get a better deal.

Remeber there is ALWAYS a deal to be made when dealing with trade suppliers.

Good luck

hermum

Hi, you could just ask if they have a wholesale pricelist & ask if you can open an account & their terms.
Good luck