How to find the best sourcing agent in China?
How to find the best sourcing agent in China. For you.
We get it, it’s all a bit complicated. However, finding the best sourcing agents in China can be a crucial step in ensuring a successful procurement process. Here are some tips on how to find reliable sourcing agents (if you decide not to choose us):
Online Research: Start by conducting a comprehensive online search for sourcing agents in China. Look for professional sourcing companies or individuals with experience in your specific industry or product category.
Supplier Directories: Utilise online supplier directories like Alibaba, GlobalSources, and Made-in-China.com. These platforms often have sections dedicated to sourcing services, where you can find registered sourcing agents or companies.
Trade Shows and Exhibitions: Attend trade shows and exhibitions related to your industry. These events provide an opportunity to meet sourcing agents face-to-face, discuss your requirements, and evaluate their capabilities.
Industry Networks and Associations: Join industry-specific forums, groups, and associations. Engage with professionals who have experience sourcing from China, and seek recommendations for reliable agents or companies.
Background Verification: Once you have shortlisted potential sourcing agents, conduct thorough background checks. Verify their business licenses, certifications, and any relevant affiliations. Look for client testimonials or references to gauge their reputation and reliability.
Communication and Compatibility: Initiate contact with the sourcing agents you are interested in working with. Assess their communication skills, responsiveness, and willingness to understand your requirements. Ensure that there is good compatibility between your needs and their capabilities.
Quality Control and Inspection: Inquire about the agents' quality control processes, inspection services, and their ability to ensure product compliance. Quality control is essential to mitigate risks and maintain product standards.
Pricing and Terms: Request detailed pricing information, including commission structures and any additional charges. Compare the pricing and terms offered by different sourcing agents to make an informed decision.
Visit China (if feasible): If possible, plan a visit to China to meet your shortlisted sourcing agents in person. This will allow you to assess their facilities, evaluate their professionalism, and establish a stronger working relationship. You can also visit our team in the UK.
Start Small: When working with a new sourcing agent, it is advisable to start with a small order to test their capabilities and reliability before scaling up your procurement activities.
Remember, due diligence is essential when selecting a sourcing agent. It's important to thoroughly research and assess multiple agents before making a decision that aligns with your specific needs and requirements.
Contact us for more information.
How much should restaurant / cafe furniture cost?
The cost of cafe furniture can vary widely depending on a number of factors such as the quality of materials used, the style and design of the furniture, the quantity purchased, and the location of the supplier. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars for cafe furniture, depending on your needs and preferences.
For example, basic metal or plastic chairs can cost around $20-$50 per chair, while higher-end wooden or upholstered chairs can cost $100-$500 or more per chair. Tables can also range in price from $50-$200 for a basic option, up to $500-$1000 or more for a custom-designed or high-end option.
Ultimately, the cost of your cafe furniture will depend on your budget and the specific needs and style of your business. It's important to do your research, compare prices from different suppliers, and choose furniture that is both functional and visually appealing for your customers.
Contact us for more information.
What furniture do I need for my restaurant / cafe?
The furniture you need for your restaurant or cafe will depend on the type of establishment you have, the space available, and the style and atmosphere you want to create. However, there are some basic pieces of furniture that are commonly found in restaurants and cafes, including:
Tables: These are essential for serving food and drinks. Depending on the size of your establishment, you may need a variety of table sizes to accommodate groups of different sizes.
Chairs: Chairs are needed for seating your customers. You can choose from a range of materials and styles to match the decor of your restaurant or cafe.
Booths: These are popular seating options for customers who want a little more privacy or comfort. Booths can be custom-made to fit your space and decor.
Bar stools: If you have a bar or counter area, you'll need bar stools for seating. These come in a range of materials and styles.
Outdoor furniture: If you have an outdoor seating area, you'll need furniture that is weather-resistant and durable. This can include tables, chairs, umbrellas, and sun shades.
Storage furniture: You'll need storage furniture such as shelves, cabinets, and carts to store and organize dishes, utensils, and other restaurant equipment.
Decorative pieces: Decorative pieces such as artwork, plants, and lighting can help create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your restaurant or cafe.
Overall, the furniture you need for your restaurant or cafe will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's important to choose furniture that is functional, comfortable, and visually appealing to create a positive experience for your customers.
Contact us for more information.
How can I trust a factory on the other side of the world?
In general, it is important to note that there are many reputable and responsible factories in China that produce high-quality products for companies around the world. In fact, China has become a major hub for manufacturing and exporting goods due to its low labour costs and efficient production processes.
That being said, it is also true that there have been cases of factories in China engaging in unethical practices such as labor exploitation, environmental pollution, and producing counterfeit or substandard products. Therefore, it is important for companies to conduct due diligence when selecting suppliers and factories, and to establish clear standards and expectations for ethical behavior and product quality.
To ensure the factories in China are trustworthy, it is important to conduct proper research, perform audits, and establish clear contracts and agreements that hold the factories accountable for meeting ethical and quality standards. Additionally, third-party certifications and independent monitoring can provide further assurance of compliance with these standards.
Ascon International can help through our trusted partner network. Contact us to find out more.
How do you source catering equipment from China?
Simple steps for sourcing in China
Here are the eight steps to source catering equipment from China. We manage some, or all, for our clients at Ascon International.
Research products: Identify and research the products you want to import from China.
Find suppliers: Utilize websites like Alibaba, Made-in-China, and Global Sources to find potential suppliers.
Verify suppliers: Evaluate the supplier's reputation, check for certifications and licenses, and request for product samples to verify quality.
Negotiate terms: Negotiate the price, payment terms, and minimum order quantity with the supplier.
Place an order: Place a small initial order to test the waters before placing a large order.
Manage logistics: Arrange for shipping, customs clearance, and insurance.
Quality control: Inspect the goods upon arrival to ensure they meet your quality standards.
Maintain communication: Keep open communication with the supplier to build a long-term relationship.
Still got questions? Reach out to us at enquire@ascon-international.com
10 things to watch out for when sourcing products from another country
10 problems with sourcing abroad.
Language and cultural barriers
Longer shipping times
Increased (and varying) shipping costs
Difficulty in quality control
Potential for unexpected customs and duties fees
Lack of legal protection
Different regulations and standards
Currency exchange rate fluctuations
Shipping damage or loss during transit
Intellectual property infringement.
Here at Ascon International, we can help. Contact us at enquire@ascon-international.com
Who make the best catering equipment?
Best catering equipment manufacturers
Excluding our product catalogue, there are several top manufacturers of commercial catering equipment, including:
Hobart
Rational
Electrolux
Combi-Oven
Anvil
Traulsen
BKI
Alto-Shaam
Waring
Berkel.
It is important to consider factors such as quality, reliability, service and support, and price when choosing a manufacturer for commercial catering equipment. It is also important to recognise that, while a manufacturer may be headquarters in a certain country, most have operations in China.
Want to understand more? Contact enquire@ascon-international.com
What warranty is available from Chinese commercial catering equipment factories?
Warranties explained.
Warranties offered by factories vary and can range from 6 months to 2 years. Some factories may offer a guarantee of product quality, while others may offer a full refund or replacement in case of defects. It's important to carefully review the warranty policy before making a purchase and to clarify any questions or concerns with the factory before finalizing the agreement.
Most factories only provide parts warranties. This means you’ll need a mechanism of getting the part to you that isn’t too cost prohibitive.
Regardless, always follow the following steps:
Review the warranty policy: Read the warranty policy carefully to understand the terms, conditions, and limitations of the warranty.
Gather proof of purchase: Keep the purchase receipts, invoices, or other documentation that prove the product was bought from the factory.
Inspect the product: Carefully inspect the product to determine if it is covered under the warranty and to identify the problem.
Contact the factory: Get in touch with the factory's customer service department and provide the necessary information about the product and the issue.
Provide proof of the problem: Provide the factory with photographs, videos, or other evidence that shows the problem with the product. Often you’ll need to provide a video and engineers report.
Follow the factory's instructions: The factory may ask for the product to be returned for inspection, or they may ask for additional information. Follow their instructions to ensure the quickest resolution.
Keep records: Keep a record of all communications, including emails, letters, and phone calls, for future reference.
It's important to be patient and persistent when making a warranty claim, and to follow the factory's procedures and guidelines to increase the chances of a successful resolution. Ascon international helps our clients do just this. Contact enquire@ascon-international.com for more information.