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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