Building an assortment around customer needs
Classify products by use, customer segment and expected turnover. Beverages, groceries, biscuits and confectionery play different roles in each network. A familiar product can simplify the sales presentation, but its relevance still depends on format, delivered price and actual customer demand.
Separate core-range products from trials intended to test a new range. The former require continuity of supply; the latter need a measured starting volume and prompt sales feedback. An international assortment can combine several origins, but this variety also increases the number of specifications and documents to compare.
Checking formats, packaging and remaining shelf life
For each product reference, request the net volume or weight, units per carton and pallet configuration. Two offers for the same brand may concern different formats or packaging. Photographs and product sheets help confirm the variant, provided they correspond to the lot offered.
Remaining shelf life on receipt must be assessed against transport, storage and sales pace. Immediate availability may suit a quick promotion without being appropriate for a longer supply cycle. State your requirement in the initial enquiry and obtain confirmation for the actual reserved lot. Storage conditions must also be considered when choosing transport and warehousing.
Reviewing information for the destination market
The product must be assessed for its destination, especially the information on its packaging and the documents buyers expect. Regulatory checks for the relevant references must be carried out with qualified contacts. Being sold in one country does not automatically mean a product is suitable for every other market.
Request available information before presenting the range to customers. A product sheet, a clear image and consistent logistics data make catalogue integration easier. Flag anything still to be confirmed and avoid presenting an estimated specification as certain. This discipline reduces corrections after order approval.
Organising initial volumes and replenishment
Compare ordering by reference with combining several products, depending on supplier and transport options. Pallet count alone does not describe loading efficiency: weight, dimensions, stacking and product compatibility also matter. Logistics costs should be expressed per comparable sales unit.
After the first supply, monitor sales, shortages and remaining stocks. This information helps adjust the assortment and order schedule. Effective sourcing balances availability, variety and capital tied up in stock. Discover our food and beverage sectors, the Martigane catalogue and the method for organise an international order.