How to choose the ideal supplier in an increasingly uncertain market?

Today’s volatility—inflation, logistics disruptions, and geopolitical tensions—has changed the rules of Procurement. Choosing the ideal supplier is no longer just about price; it’s about resilience, agility, and strategic value.

74%. That’s the share of leading companies already changing how they select suppliers (McKinsey, 2025).

Keys to making the best decision:

• Evaluate beyond cost. The ideal supplier isn’t the cheapest, but the one that brings stability and responsiveness. Assess financial health, customer diversification, and contingency plans.

• Measure adaptability. How did they respond to recent crises? A supplier that quickly adjusts production, logistics, and communication is a reliable partner in uncertain scenarios.

• Transparency and collaboration. Look for suppliers who share critical information (inventories, lead times, risks) and are willing to work in collaborative models like VMI or long-term agreements.

• Innovation and sustainability. Resilience is also built through innovation. Suppliers investing in technology and sustainable practices reduce future risks and strengthen your value chain.

Continuous evaluation. Markets change fast. Implement dynamic KPIs and regular reviews to ensure the supplier remains aligned with your strategic objectives.

Actionable checklist to strengthen your evaluation:

• Dynamic scorecards that combine historical performance with real-time monitoring.

• Risk exposure mapped by supplier, country, and category—risks aren’t all the same.

• ESG KPIs with real financial weight, not just symbolic checklists.

In uncertain times, the ideal supplier isn’t just a vendor, but a strategic partner who shares risks and opportunities. Choosing well can be the difference between merely surviving and leading your industry.

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