How to convince a supplier to give you competitive prices as a start

Sahl Sunday,13 Jul 2025

When starting any e-commerce business, one of the biggest challenges store owners in Saudi Arabia face is:
"How do I convince a supplier to give me a competitive price, when I'm just starting out and don't have a large quantity?"
The market is full of competitors, and customers are always comparing prices. As a beginner, you must balance product quality with price. Therefore, convincing a supplier to lower your price from the outset is a smart and essential step toward the success of your store.
Let's explain some proven methods that will help you secure the best price, even without ordering large quantities:
1. Start building a relationship before you ask for a price
Don't jump in and say, "How much? Give me the cheapest one!"
Begin by introducing yourself. Present yourself as a promising business, and make it clear that you're serious and intend to build a long-term relationship. Suppliers like to deal with people who are clear and serious.
Example:
"I own a new e-commerce store called (store name), and I want to start working with a reliable, long-term supplier. I want to start with a specific product range and expand later, God willing."
2. Make it clear to the supplier that you intend to expand.
Even if you're ordering small quantities, let the supplier know that you intend to grow. The supplier isn't just thinking about making a profit from the first order; they're assessing whether your project has a future.
Tell them:
"Honestly, the first batch will be limited, but my goal is to double the quantity within three months if I see customer interaction."
3. Don't ask for a direct discount... Ask for "a chance"
Instead of saying, "Give me a discount," say, "I need your support at the beginning, such as a special price for new projects. Give me a chance to try your products, and if things go well, I'll become a regular customer."
This approach makes the supplier feel like they're helping you, not losing money.
4. Offer other benefits instead of a discount
If the supplier is hesitant to give you a discount, try a bargain:
• Add a free product with the order
• Reduce shipping costs
• Give you a longer payment period (if you trust each other)
Sometimes you can't take a direct discount, but you can save money in other ways.
5. Use the experiences or recommendations of other suppliers.
If you've dealt with another supplier before, even if they're simple, say:
"I've worked with other suppliers before and got a certain price, but I want to expand my network of suppliers and look for better options."
This gives them the feeling that you don't have to deal with them, but it could be a win-win if they offer you a competitive price.
6. Try buying through an intermediary or platform.
Some platforms, such as wholesale suppliers, local Alibaba, or even supplier showrooms in Saudi Arabia, allow you to negotiate pre-packaged prices.
If you feel like a supplier is giving you a hard time because you're small, there are intermediaries that combine quantities from multiple merchants and give you wholesale prices, even for small quantities.
7. Don't overdo it... Remain calm and confident.
Don't show them that you need them by any means. Remain confident and have other options. If a supplier feels you don't have a choice, they'll stick to their price.
Say:
"I have other options, but I prefer to work with you because I like your products. I just need a special quote from you to get started."
8. Request a Quote for Packages
Instead of asking, "How much does the product cost?"
Ask them to quote you for three packages:
• A starter package (for example, 10 pieces)
• A medium package (50 pieces)
• A large package (100 pieces)
This way, you can compare and see if it's really worth ordering later, opening the door to broader negotiations.
Convincing a supplier of the right price doesn't depend solely on the number of items you purchase. It depends on your negotiating style, your tone of voice, and how you build a long-term relationship.
If you can reach a win-win agreement, you're on the right track.