Why Some Polytunnel Manufacturers Become Suppliers and Others Do Not

 


Polytunnel companies can be both manufacturers, as well as polytunnel suppliers, of various shapes and sizes of framed housings we see in fields or gardens around the UK. Polytunnels or hoop houses, are durable structures used predominantly in agricultural, horticultural and garden or allotment operations growing a plethora of crops, plants, seedlings and cuttings, protecting and safeguarding them from adverse weather conditions, extending growing seasons, and enhancing the healthy production and efficiency these different size and shaped structures come in.

As the demand for food increases these controlled environmental and protective solutions also increase and so do their uses. Some polytunnel companies manufacture as well as supply them directly to consumers, while other polytunnel suppliers focus solely on the supply chain to individuals and business customers in various industries.

 

Manufacturing vs. Supplying

The difference between manufacturers and polytunnel suppliers lies in each company's service role, within the production-to-supply chain. Those companies that manufacture and are responsible for producing these various-sized structures, including sourcing the build materials, and designing and manufacturing, various frames and fittings, for differently sized tunnels.

On the other hand, suppliers are intermediaries who distribute and sell a range of products they believe are the best in the market to end customers, such as commercial growers, farmers, garden centres, small garden enthusiasts, and more. They will purchase these build items from a reliable manufacturer and only purchase quality materials such as accessories, polytunnel covers, parts, fittings, etc. Some polytunnel suppliers manage the whole process, from sale to installation and construction.

In contrast, polytunnel companies that manufacture but do not supply them, often rely on third-party distributors, retailers, or other wholesalers to sell their products.

 

Business Scale and Specialisation

For some polytunnel companies, particularly those that produce a vast range of tunnels, managing the entire supply chain from manufacturing to sales, allows them greater control over pricing and distribution process. Being both, manufacturer and supplier, these companies can better ensure that their products reach consumers quickly, efficiently, and at competitive prices.

Small-scale manufacturers might not have the resources or infrastructure to handle distribution and sales, in addition to production. Some companies find it more cost-effective to focus solely on manufacturing, leaving the supply process to larger, more experienced polytunnel companies that can handle the build logistics, marketing, and customer service. So, manufacturers can just concentrate on their core service of producing quality polytunnels.

 

Distribution and Market Supply and Reach

For instance, certain polytunnel suppliers who do not manufacture their own products often benefit from having established network connections, that allow them to offer a wide variety of polytunnels from different manufacturers and can offer bespoke builds. By working with a choice of manufacturers, polytunnel suppliers can provide their customers with a broader selection, including different types of structures, sizes, and prices. Having developed strong relationships with commercial growers, farmers, and garden enthusiasts, making them the go-to place for purchasing polytunnels.

 

Recognition and Niche Markets

Polytunnel companies that manufacture and supply their products, often benefit from better control over their brand's reputation. Direct interaction with consumers allows them to form a quality brand identity, provide specialised and individual customer support, and offer tailored and bespoke products that meet the needs of specific markets.

While manufacturers who focus solely on production may not have identified brand visibility among consumers. They can often work with polytunnel suppliers, who specialise in niche markets, such as organic farming, urban agriculture or vast commercial horticulture operations.

 

Conclusion

Some polytunnel companies manufacture and supply, and all are influenced by their own business strategy, scale, market specialisation, and logistical considerations. Each service approach has its distinct advantages but the emphasis is always on the quality and performance of each durable and robust structure and covering.



Read More:

Polytunnel Replacement Covers, Purposes, and Uses

Durable and Robust Professional Polytunnel Kits and Bespoke Builds


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