WHAT DOES UMMA EXPECT FROM ITS UMSA SUPPLIERS?
There are a variety of factors. While competitive pricing, service, product quality, and financial wherewithal are essential, decisions are not made exclusively on these issues. Since UMMA is interested in concentrating its Members’ business with its approved suppliers, it seeks, in most cases, to develop a limited number of supplier relationships in each product and key service category. It is important that these approved suppliers work closely with UMMA and its Members to help consolidate the group’s collective business and to improve their purchasing efficiency. In the course of such relationships it is implicit that UMMA will seek to develop a working knowledge of each supplier’s business so that a cooperative effort can be utilized to improve operational efficiency for both the supplier and the group members. Where appropriate, willingness to provide adequate technical support and training is essential. At the same time, suppliers are encouraged to develop proprietary components,
