Requests From Suppliers and Manufacturers

Is this normal?

[Innovate]

I am trying to check my ego at the door. I am very curious about this. I requested information from a supplier and they want me to send them pictures of my store, among other things.

Not that it would be difficult to do this, but I have never had anyone ask for this (send pictures). (Here is where the ego check comes in) I really don't NEED to carry these products, so I don't like feeling like I am auditioning. Either we are doing business, or we aren't. If I wanted to audition and prove myself, then I'd get a job.

Plus the email address I used is from the company's domain so if they really wanted some of this info, all they had to do was look. I don't mind answering a few basic questions, giving resale form, whatever- the basic things that people ask for.

But I am not used to jumping through hoops in order to spend my hard earned money. Is this normal or am I overreacting? I am not trying to be a jerk. I am just confused.

Thanks.

[Marshall]

I know one of my e-commerce clients has run into this problem and was asked to provide proof of a brick-and-mortar store. Some manufacturers will not sell to internet sales only stores as they do not want their products put on discount or, more so, auction type sites.

Marshall

[Innovate]

Thanks for responding.

The way it was worded just made them sound so high maintenance. Like they'd be a pain because they think they are doing me a favor. I have a brick and mortar too so I could easily take pics...it's just for some reason I don't want to. The tone just turned me off.

[lgn1]

They should just ask for your shipping address. They can then use google street view, to see if you are working from your house or a store front.

I use street view all the time, to checkout the competition.

[votrechien]

I've never heard this request either, but in hindsight it doesn't seem that unreasonable. Plus, it's probably to your advantage- it's going to prevent the home based businesses and other smaller guys from offering these products.

[lgn1]

Finding a company that only sells to brick and mortars, is actually a great fine, as most e-tailers will simply give up on the idea.

This leaves a field with virtually no online competition.

You would then use the various smoke and mirror techniques with your supplier, and establish control of the e-tail market for these items.

I just love supplers, who think they can control the supply chain.

[jsinger]

Actually almost none of our better suppliers will open an account unless the seller is visited by a sales rep. Better ones will also have a high opening order requirement.

If they will open you up based only on an email you probably want no part of them!

[dpd1]

I also feel the same way you do about the theory that you should have more freedom in your own business. But in the last few years, I've tried to be more patient and understanding with other people, and also just try to go with the flow more often. There's been people I've dealt with in that time that I would have cut loose in a heartbeat in the past. But now when I get a gut feeling that somebody is going to be a giant pain, I try not to pass judgment. I'd like to say I've been rewarded for having more patience, but unfortunately it has been the exact opposite. Most of the people who I gave a great amount of latitude to, did in fact end up being nothing more than a big pain... Just like I originally suspected. But only each individual can determine what's worth the hassle and what's not.