Paul Wray, Managing Director of Furntec Ltd and Modern Outlook Furniture, answers the question, should you deal directly with Chinese factories?
JUST A MYTH
Over the years I have heard many times that companies would rather deal directly with factories here in China and not with a trader, thinking they can get a better deal or a better product.
Sometimes this may be the case, but is it all just a myth?
Working with suppliers in China and building up trust takes time and it’s not something that happens overnight. I have spent many years living in China working with many suppliers to build up trust and reputation.
As a trader and knowing how to work with the suppliers this adds huge benefit for customers around the world who cannot be based in the Far East and need help sourcing or QC.
Do customers think dealing direct they can obtain much better prices for the products they intend to buy?
In most cases, prices are best negotiated by someone who knows the culture and people and how to get the best deal and not affect the quality of a product.
Trust is 100% key here in China.
Understanding your product is also key to a successful negotiation, how do you know if the price you are being offered is a good price? Yes, you can compare but are you getting what you really need to the correct specifications?
Remember, when you’re pushing for a much better price, what is being taken out of the product in terms of quality or materials to achieve the price you want?
Working with a trader who has local knowledge in the country you are buying from and has years of experience in the furniture industry working with many furniture suppliers can benefit your business in many different ways.
We are here to make your working life easier and to take away the stress by making sure we get you what you need at the right price, quality and service and to the correct specification.
Modern Outlook Furniture assists businesses of all sizes in procurement from China at any stage of your project. If you would like a no obligation conversation about how we can assist you and help you avoid any costly issues or nasty surprises, please do get in touch.
paulw@modernoutlook.cn
