wholesale vendor supplier
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retailers tips

The Unconventional Ways

 

According to a report by Grand View Research, the global sourcing and procurement market is expected to reach $9.6 billion by 2028.

A survey by BigCommerce found that 80% of small business owners use social media to find and research products.

A survey by Statista found that 52% of US businesses use online marketplaces to find wholesale vendors.

Are you tired of the same old strategies for finding the best wholesale vendors? Well, look no further! Here are some not-so-obvious tactics to help you find the perfect wholesale vendor for your business needs.

Ask Your Competitors

Yes, you read that right. Ask your competitors for recommendations on the best wholesale vendors. I know what you’re thinking: “Why would I ask my competitors for help? Won’t that give them an advantage over me?” But hear me out.
Your competitors are in the same industry as you and are likely dealing with the same challenges as you. They may have already found the perfect wholesale vendor that could also benefit your business. Plus, it never hurts to build relationships within your industry.

For example, a clothing boutique owner may contact a competitor to ask where they source their high-quality fabrics. The competitor may be willing to share their trusted vendor, leading to a new partnership and improved product quality for both businesses.

Check Out Social Media

Social media is more than just a platform for sharing memes and cat videos. It can also be a powerful tool for finding the best wholesale vendors. Many vendors and suppliers now use social media to showcase their products and connect with potential customers.
Instagram is a great platform to start your search. Simply search for relevant hashtags, such as #wholesalejewelry or #wholesaleclothing, and scroll through the posts. You may come across a vendor that catches your eye.

For example, a small business owner looking for unique handmade ceramics may come across a vendor on Instagram who creates one-of-a-kind pieces that perfectly fit their brand.

Join Online Groups

There are many online groups and communities for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Joining these groups can help you connect with other business owners and learn from their experiences. They can also be a great resource for finding the best wholesale vendors.
Facebook groups, LinkedIn groups, and Reddit communities are all great places to start. Look for groups that are specific to your industry or business niche.

For example, a business owner looking for a new supplier for their vegan snack company may join a Facebook group for plant-based entrepreneurs. They can ask for recommendations for the best wholesale vendors that offer vegan-friendly ingredients.

Attend Local Events

Local events, such as Tradeshows markets or craft fairs, can be a great way to find unique and high-quality wholesale vendors. These events often feature local businesses that may not have a strong online presence.
Plus, meeting vendors in person can give you a better sense of their product quality and customer service.

For example, a business owner looking for a new supplier for their organic skincare line may attend a local farmers market and discover a vendor selling handmade, all-natural soaps.

Use a Sourcing Agent

If you’re short on time or struggling to find the right wholesale vendor, consider using a sourcing agent. A sourcing agent is a professional who helps businesses find and negotiate with suppliers and vendors.
While using a sourcing agent may come with an additional cost, they can save you time and potentially help you find better deals and higher-quality products.

For example, a business owner looking for a new supplier for their tech startup may hire a sourcing agent to help them find the best deals on electronic components.

Utilize online marketplaces

Online marketplaces such as Alibaba, Amazon, and Etsy can be a great resource for finding wholesale vendors. These platforms allow businesses to connect with vendors worldwide and often provide tools to help businesses compare and choose the best vendor for their needs.
For example, a business owner looking for a new supplier for their eco-friendly home goods may use an online marketplace to search for vendors specializing in sustainable materials. They can compare different options based on factors such as pricing and shipping policies to find the best fit for their business.

Join industry groups and networks

joining industry groups and networks can be a great way to connect with other businesses in your industry and get recommendations for the best wholesale vendors. These groups often have online forums or in-person meetings where businesses can share information and connect with each other.


In conclusion, finding the best wholesale vendors requires creativity and a willingness to try new strategies. By utilizing these not-so-obvious tactics, you may find the perfect vendor for your business needs and set your business up for success.