A supplier list is a list of all the suppliers your business has, as well as useful information about them. It’s also called a supplier directory.
The supplier list is a systematic overview of current and previous suppliers. It usually includes names or business names, contact information and addresses.
Having a supplier list makes it easier to keep track of your suppliers, and to do your bookkeeping, as you can look up information about the purchases, deliveries and the suppliers themselves.
To make the most of your supplier list it should be in a supplier relationship management tool (SRM), not on pen and paper. It’s a good idea to look for a customer relationship management tool that supports both customers and suppliers.
Which companies use a supplier list?
Many companies across different industries use supplier lists. However, the content of the list will vary according to your needs and what is relevant for the industry you operate in. It doesn’t have to be complicated, and the contents are up to you.
When you run a company, you will need suppliers, whether that’s to set up Wifi at your home office, order raw materials to produce goods, or get a cleaning company in to clean your shop floor. But of course a supplier list is most useful for companies that have a large number of suppliers.
For example, a clothing store might need several suppliers to get clothes, shoes, jewlery and bags. To have a good overview over deliveries and delivery times, as well as prices, you can use a supplier list.
Don’t forget about customer lists
In addition to a supplier list you should have another list called a customer list, which has information about all your customers. In the customer list you can find information you need to contact customers, invoice them, or review your sales.
