Tips for Finding the Best Suppliers With Mattia Miglio From Alibaba.com

Have a great idea for a new product? To turn the vision into a reality, you need to partner with reliable suppliers. But finding suppliers you can count on is easier said than done. If sourcing has been giving you grief, this is the Unboxing Logistics episode for you!

Mattia Miglio from Alibaba.com joins Lori to share tips for finding suppliers, making sure they’re a good fit for your business, and building partnerships that last.

How to find the right suppliers

When you’re on the hunt for a new partner, Mattia recommends using a platform like Alibaba.com to find vetted suppliers from across the globe. For the most accurate picture of their performance, make sure to read customer reviews and check how long they’ve been active on the platform.

Once you’re ready to move forward, Mattia says, “Always ask for samples. … If you are a beauty brand, for example, you can ask for [un]customized samples. Then you can go to customized samples, and then you place the first order with minimal quantities. Then if you're happy, you can scale up.”

Why supplier diversification matters

According to Mattia, the safest course for a small business is to always have at least three suppliers.

If one partner runs into manufacturing or shipping delays, you’ll be able to rely on your others.

He also notes, “Logistics costs are a big component. So if you find another supplier [that] can reduce your logistics costs, that will have an impact.”

Building long-term partnerships

Sourcing is a careful balance; while you want to build trusting, long-term partnerships, you also have to be open to change.

“I always recommend [finding] the right partner, not [just] a supplier. … These relationships should go for the long term. But always compare prices. Always have a backup plan.”

Links

• Connect with Mattia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattiamiglio/
• Visit Alibaba.com’s website: https://www.alibaba.com/