The contracting business revolves around three things: customers, trained workers, and a dependable source of materials. Take any of these away, and the business is doomed to fail. Each of these requires ongoing care and attention. A quick search of this publication’s website points to literally thousands of articles associated with finding and acquiring customers. Similarly, the important subject of employee training and retention gets the coverage it deserves. However, there is only a modest amount about the “care and feeding” of the supply side of the business.
Many may shake their heads and assume the attitude that suppliers are a dime a dozen, and if one goes away, there are plenty more pushing for our business. But the truth is, unplanned supply interruption can cost your business. Further, if supply should become tight due to regu- issues or some national parts shortage (it happens), maintaining a strong supply base is doubly important.