For a distributor, choosing a manufacturer involves much more than just placing an order.

The quality of the supplier affects customer satisfaction, warranty claims, product availability, the reputation of the product line, and the profitability of the partnership.

In the animal identification and veterinary equipment sectors, regulatory and technical requirements make this selection even more important.

Check the manufacturer's experience

A long history doesn't guarantee everything, but it does provide a basis for assessing a company's ability to maintain production, develop its products, and adapt to different markets.

It's a good idea to check:

  • the year it was founded;
  • product families under control;
  • areas already served;
  • the availability of a technical support team;
  • regulatory references;
  • the continuity of the product lines.

ARDES has been developing veterinary equipment and animal identification solutions since 1964.

Verify Product Compliance

The manufacturer must be familiar with the standards and requirements that apply to its products.

For electronic identification, compliance with RFID standards and the presence of recognized certifications are key factors.

It is also important to verify whether the manufacturer is able to adapt its products to the regulations of the country in which they will be distributed.

Just because a product is accepted in one market does not mean it is automatically accepted in all others.

Assess the breadth of the product line

A cohesive product line facilitates the distributor's business growth.

In the livestock sector, it may combine:

  • visual loops;
  • electronic loops;
  • RFID readers;
  • installation clamps;
  • markers;
  • accessories;
  • syringes;
  • dispensing guns;
  • spare parts.

This complementary nature allows the distributor to meet a wider range of needs without increasing the number of suppliers.

Compare performance, not just prices

The purchase price must be reconciled with the actual cost of use.

When designing a loop, it is important to consider the retention rate, readability, and frequency of replacements.

When evaluating a syringe, one must consider its service life, repairability, accuracy, and the availability of replacement parts.

A product that is inexpensive to purchase can end up being costly if it results in numerous complaints.

Check supply capacity

The manufacturer must be able to provide information on:

  • its deadlines;
  • its production capacity;
  • its minimum quantities;
  • its customization options;
  • its logistics organization;
  • its forecasts;
  • the continuity of its components.

In a regulated market, a stockout can have significant consequences for the retailer and its customers.

Find genuine sales support

A good manufacturer should help its distributor sell the product line.

This support may include:

  • sales training;
  • technical documentation;
  • product sheets;
  • photographs;
  • sales pitches;
  • assistance with requests for proposals;
  • demonstrations;
  • Answers to regulatory questions.

ARDES provides training, marketing tools, and sales and technical support to its partners.

Evaluate customization options

Every market has its own unique characteristics.

The distributor may need a specific color, local labeling, a line of products under its own brand, or special packaging.

A manufacturer with its own production facilities can generally handle these requests with greater flexibility.

Review the partnership strategy

The relationship must be balanced.

Before committing, the distributor must clarify:

  • the relevant territory;
  • business objectives;
  • pricing terms;
  • inventory needs;
  • the available media;
  • prospect management;
  • regulatory responsibilities;
  • the terms and conditions for market development.

A manufacturer shouldn't just deliver products. It must contribute to the success of the product line in the region.

ARDES, an industrial partner to retailers

ARDES works with distributors, cooperatives, specialty retailers, and institutional organizations.

The company combines French manufacturing, a product line that meets a variety of livestock farming needs, and technical and sales support.

This approach makes it possible to build partnerships tailored to the realities of each market.

Are you looking for a manufacturer to expand or develop your product line?

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