Navigating Strikes: A Call for Local Inventory Sourcing

As you are aware, the ongoing union strikes across various industries over the past two years stem from the impact of inflation on take-home pay.  Most workers’ earnings have not kept pace with inflation.  Inflation is particularly insidious because once prices rise, they do not come back down.  When the government touts that they have inflation under control, they simply mean that prices are not increasing as rapidly as before.  However, unless take-home pay increases faster than inflation, both union and non-union workers struggle to afford the essentials for a comfortable life.

The Impact of a Strike

The potential impacts of a long drawn-out strike are substantial. Strikes create supply chain disruptions and may or may not affect the consumer but they convey an unsettling trend that everything is costing too much and all workers need a break and income that exceeds inflation.

For retailers and wholesalers, these potential supply disruption means that inventory may not arrive on time, causing further ripple effects down the supply chain. The uncertainty surrounding the length of time for a strike makes it imperative for business owners to seek alternative solutions to mitigate risks.  Every day a business is not selling their goods or are unable to receive their goods from their suppliers is a lost sales day that cannot be recovered.

Benefits of Local Sourcing

Retailers and wholesalers should strongly consider sourcing their inventory locally to mitigate risks.  Those who do will avail themselves to the following benefits:

1. Reduction of Lead Times: Local suppliers can often deliver goods faster than those located offshore.
2. Lower Transportation Costs: Sourcing locally can significantly reduce transportation costs, which can be a major expense for businesses. This not only saves money but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping.
3. Enhanced Flexibility: Working with local suppliers allows for greater flexibility in order quantities and delivery schedules. This can be particularly beneficial during times of uncertainty when demand may fluctuate unexpectedly.
4. Supporting Local Economy: Buying locally helps support the local economy and fosters stronger business relationships within the community. This can lead to more reliable partnerships and better service.
5. Quality Assurance: Local suppliers are often more accessible for quality checks and audits, ensuring that the products meet your standards and reducing the risk of receiving subpar inventory.
6. Mitigation of External Factors: Sourcing inventory locally helps insulate your business from external factors, such as challenges caused by strikes. While other retailers and wholesalers are ill prepared, your business can avoid potential delays and disruptions.  Your business will also be able to pick up additional market share while other businesses struggle. 

By sourcing inventory locally, retailers and wholesalers can better navigate the challenges posed by a strike and minimize its impact on their operations. 

Total Wholesale, LLC is the Solution

If you’re a retailer or wholesale business that is scrambling to source inventory on any given day or during a strike, Total Wholesale is here to assist.  We help our customers navigate through the fog of uncertainty, ensuring their businesses not only survive but thrive, no matter the external challenges. 

Total Wholesale was founded to provide smaller retailers with an alternative supply chain, leveraging our significant buying power to offer first-cost goods to their customers, whether they operate through brick- and-mortar stores, online platforms, or both.  

With over 35 years of expertise in retail, distribution, and finance, our team ensures you have the products your customers want. By maintaining inventory on hand or on demand, we enable your business to continue growing during these unpredictable times. We have ample inventory available for immediate delivery from our warehouses in Bayonne and Passaic, NJ, including branded footwear, apparel, small appliances, home goods, fragrances, health & beauty, seasonal items, and so much more.  With over 4,400 SKUs available, trust in Total Wholesale for your high-quality products at competitive wholesale prices.