What are the characteristics of a good supplier?

 It is doubtful whether an ideal supplier would always be readily available, however, it is necessary to have some idea of what would constitute a good supplier.

A good supplier generally honours promises, has a stable background, always supplies the quality as specified at a fair and competitive price and delivers the service at an agreed time. This supplier takes the initiative in suggesting better methods of service and constantly tries to develop new money-saving services to help buyers make purchases more economically.  An ideal supplier reacts quickly to varying unforeseen needs of the purchaser resulting from changing business circumstances, specification changes, maintenance problems and/or other requests.  Good suppliers warn the buyer in good time if normal delivery cannot be made and make alternative arrangements so that the purchasing enterprise's operations are not delayed. A good supplier will take the initiative and offer the purchasing enterprise the necessary technical support and other expertise if required.

A long tern relationship with this supplier may be a great advantage to both the purchasing enterprise and the supplier.