Whether you market your products to private pool owners or trade customers, you need a supplier you can trust. Hiring a supplier with global reach gives you access to the best products the industry has to offer.  The right supplier must also provide you with the best service possible.  Here’s what to look for when choosing your supplier. 

A track record of reliability

When you’re ordering from abroad, it can seem daunting, particularly when a face-to-face meeting is impractical. That’s why you need to look for a long-standing track record of reliability in your supplier.  This can be found in testimonials from industry experts around the world; decades of experience gained from working in the market; and an outstanding reputation among clients both new and old. 

Prompt, speedy delivery timescales

You need to get your products and service up-and-running as quickly as possible. The key benefit of hiring a supplier with a dedicated export department is that they can deliver quality products to you in a very short timescale.  Through a variety of cost-efficient regional shipping services via road, sea, and sky, this can be easily accomplished – whether you’re ordering small packs, spare parts, or whole containers.  Double check if the suppliers offer comprehensive and transparent tracking services from the moment you place your order through to delivery.  If they do, you can trust that they care about getting your order to you promptly. 

Broad product range

Besides reputation, how do you know if a supplier has the right products for you?  Look through their websites.  Check if the products are backed up by testimonials, case studies, critical research, and technical support. Compare products with those of competitors – do they offer you what you need?

A global supplier doesn’t necessarily mean a one-size-fits-all approach.  Have you considered company branding services to promote your own business rather than that of the supplier? Own brand packaging is a valuable service if you want to promote a local message in your local language. 

Comprehensive, personal customer service

Most important, a good supplier should be easy to contact and open to having conversations about their products.  A phone/Skype conversation or email should quickly confirm what the supplier has to offer and the different strengths and benefits of their products; both commercial benefits to your business as well as the product benefits to the end-user.

The location of your territory should not be a barrier to excellent service.  The best suppliers should treat you as if you are their only customer, and this extends to technical support, regular liaison and aftercare. They will provide you with a personal account manager who will manage your account and the relationship from start to finish, ensuring that you get exactly what you want when you want it.

 For advice on importing all your swimming pool and spa products, contact us on sales@mineralsi.com or call +44(0)1825 790524.