Wholesalers are increasingly facing competition on several fronts. Consider, for example, digitalization, new technologies, changing customer behavior, competitors expanding their assortment or producers selling directly to companies, thereby bypassing wholesalers. The market is competitive and is linked to the economic climate.
Wholesalers can no longer avoid an omnichannel approach: customers expect flexibility and wide availability, and new ways of managing inventories and logistics are crucial factors in reliable last mile delivery. A brick-and-mortar location alone is no longer enough, as customers demand 24/7 access to product ranges – although their feedback makes it easier for wholesalers to target their product range. Those that respond by investing in digitisation and innovation may make themselves an attractive target for private equity buyers. In an industry that is sensitive to the economic climate, wholesalers are dependent on economic growth, which can include opportunities to tap into new export markets outside Western Europe. The increase in digitisation means that supply and demand are more closely matched, resulting in higher turnover and shorter delivery times – but staff shortages remain a challenge. |
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New technology makes it possible for suppliers to bypass the wholesaler and do business directly with customers. But by taking control of the entire supply chain, wholesalers can respond to price constraints and online competition, and add services such as product design, drop shipment, customer services, and aftersales to create a full-service concept.
If you want to build the business model or increase your company value, it may be interesting to talk to a private equity party. All the trends and developments ensure that there are plenty of opportunities for wholesale business acquisitions. To increase your company's growth opportunities, you may be interested in joining with another party to continue to grow together, or alternatively, to purchase a business to take a step in your growth strategy.
Are you looking for a partner or an investor, or do you want to join forces with another company? Marktlink can help you realise your ambitions. Always committed, independent and professional, we have a large national and international network, and detailed knowledge of local and global markets.
Our specialists will use their knowledge and experience proactively, to help you find the right successor or implement your growth strategy in the wholesale industry.
Contact us now for more information.