In this post, I discuss how the UK's dominant marketplace is impacting the relationship between small to medium sized ecommerce retailers and some of the larger pet food manufacturers.
As an online pet store owner, I rely on my suppliers to provide me with the products that I need to keep my business growing. Without them, we would not be able to keep our 'virtual' shelves stocked with the latest and greatest pet supplies. With the rise of online marketplaces, it has become easier than ever for pet owners to find the supplies they need for their furry friends. However, these same marketplaces are making it increasingly difficult for small to medium pet businesses to compete as they try and forge direct relationships with some of the larger pet supplies manufacturers, making it challenging for businesses like ours to compete.
The manufacturers themselves can obviously see the commercial benefits of dealing directly with the marketplaces but in my humble opinion, this will only provide them with a short-term benefit, as prices will be artificially driven down to try and eliminate the competition, however, once this is achieved they will put the squeeze on the manufacturers who will then have nowhere to go and it will erode their profitability in the medium to long term.
We have excellent relationships with many of our suppliers and manufacturers, who are more concerned about providing an exceptional customer experience and ensuring that their product's brand values are maintained, rather than going down the 'pile it high sell it cheap' approach adopted by some. We say long may this philosophy continue!
To those manufacturers out there looking to make a quick profit, you might be tempted to sell your soul to the devil. After all, what could be more valuable than your immortal soul? Unfortunately, the devil is not interested in bargaining for souls. He's not interested in anything except amassing more power. So, if you're thinking of making a deal with the devil, you'd better think again. You'll only end up getting burned.
What practical things can you do to support smaller businesses?
1. Shop at smaller ecommerce stores whenever possible
2. Leave positive reviews for businesses you love
3. Support businesses that are transparent about their practices and ethical in their treatment of employees and customers.
4. Share your favourite ecommerce stores with your friends and family
Check out our range of quality products at getsetpet.com
