For small and independent hospitality businesses—whether bars, cafés, or restaurants—securing competitive deals with drinks suppliers can feel like an uphill battle. Larger venues often dominate supplier relationships, leveraging high-volume orders to access lower prices, exclusive agreements, and premium perks. So, how can smaller businesses level the playing field and secure better terms?
The Challenges
Funding your business with your own resources is a common route for many first-time entrepreneurs. Using personal savings or early revenue allows you to build without taking on debt or relinquishing equity. Bootstrapping can be ideal if your startup costs are lower or if you’re starting small, like a café or drinks stand.
Tip: Early on, focus on cost-effective investments. Building partnerships with suppliers who support small businesses can also help reduce expenses. Our team can guide you on where to save and how to source efficiently.
Strategies to Access Better Deals
While the challenges are significant, they aren’t insurmountable. Here’s how smaller hospitality businesses can gain an edge:
- Leverage Collective Purchasing: Joining forces with other small venues to form buying groups can help increase order volumes, giving you access to bulk discounts.
- Build Relationships with Suppliers: Consistently working with a supplier and fostering a positive relationship can lead to better deals over time. Transparency and clear communication are key.
- Explore Local and Independent Suppliers: Small or regional suppliers often offer competitive rates and flexible terms to gain new business. They may also provide unique products that can help differentiate your venue.
- Work with Industry Consultants: Experts like UMS Consultancy can help you navigate supplier negotiations, identify cost-saving opportunities, and unlock deals that might otherwise be out of reach.
Why It Matters
Better supplier deals don’t just reduce costs—they can directly impact your profitability and customer satisfaction. Offering competitively priced drinks with a variety of options gives your venue a strong advantage in a crowded market.
Let Us Help You
At UMS Consultancy, we specialise in helping small hospitality businesses secure the supplier deals they deserve. With industry expertise and strong supplier relationships, we can negotiate favourable terms on your behalf, saving you time, money, and stress.
Ready to gain a competitive edge? Contact us today and discover how we can help your business thrive.