Five ways to cut what your facility spends on supplies

Supplies are rarely the biggest line in a budget, but they are the most frequent. That frequency is where money leaks out.

Consolidate suppliers

Ten small suppliers mean ten delivery charges, ten invoices and no volume discount. One or two main suppliers give you leverage and less admin.

Agree prices for repeat items

Your top 50 items are probably 80% of spend. Fix their prices for six or twelve months.

Stop emergency buying

Buying from the nearest shop when stock runs out costs 20 to 50% more. Set minimum levels and a weekly reorder day.

Standardise

Three brands of the same glove or cleaner cost more than one. Pick a standard and stick to it.

Look at total cost, not unit price

A cheaper mop that lasts half as long is not cheaper. Ask for samples and compare usage.