Welcome To
The Bottom Line

Vendor contract amendments can look simple and harmless – a brief paragraph, perhaps up to two pages, addressing some routine items. They often even include an upfront payment to recompense for your troubles, an unexpected “bluebird” that might help offset the inevitable budget worries. Don’t be lulled into complacency. These few sentences can carry significant implications and should be inspected just as closely as your original vendor contract.

All manufacturers, distributors and retailers rely on vendors for products and services to support their operations. The relationships are typically governed by long-term agreements and when those contracts are up for renewal, the common reaction is to sign an extension with the incumbent. Assuming service levels have been acceptable, switching costs – especially for anything involving raw materials – tend to be so onerous (testing, certifications, regulatory compliance, etc.) that there’s rarely any appetite for the expense and resource diversion that accompanies a change.

Engaging with a strategic sourcing partner can be an effective means to improve your manufacturing company’s bottom line without affecting its operations, or perhaps even improving them, because the process allows operational and procurement managers to be better focused on the tactical aspects of running the operation.

Not all sourcing management firms are created equal, however, and like other vendor categories some will be a better fit with your manufacturing company’s culture and objectives than others. We suggest asking the following questions before selecting a strategic sourcing partner.