Enquiries

Most business dealings begin with a simple letter or e-mail of enquiry from the prospective buyer. When dealing with a new supplier for the first time it is advisable to:

· mention the source from which you obtained his name: an ad, a recommendation from a business associate/partner or any other source;

· introduce yourself and your firm;

· describe the kind of goods you need and for what purpose they are required;

· add any other info likely to enable the supplier to decide what he can do for you.

Be brief and clear. Remember KISS principle? Good. Follow it.

The goods required should be described in detail unless you do not have enough info to do so at this stage, and you just ask for particular requirements with regard to the product you want to buy, its price, delivery terms, and so on. Stress the size of the order and/or the possibility of repeat orders to look like a long-term client. Do try to make an impression of a partner with long lasting and fruitful cooperation in mind!

The closing lines of your letter/e-mail should contain a request for a prompt reply and point out that you expect to receive a competitive offer that would result in placing ‘a substantial order’ with the prospective supplier.

Request for information

Dear Sir or Madam,

We are a private company selling dairy products on the domestic market. Presently we want to expand our business and need some information about plastic packaging suitable for milk, yoghurt and other dairy products.

As we are planning to export our products to Western Europe, the quality of the goods must meet EU standards.

We would appreciate a prompt reply.

Yours sincerely,

John Smith

Enquiry for fabrics

Dear Sir or Madam,

We have been given your name by Mr. Nicholson from Knitwear Ltd, Baltimore, who has been a regular customer of your company for two years. We have a steady demand for fabrics of all kinds and are considering placing a substantial order with you.

Please send us your offer with a price list and discounts for regular purchases. We would also like to know what your delivery dates are.

We hope to hear from you soon.

Yours faithfully,

Lionel Spingsteen