Maintenance Supply Company Gets Better Filters Prices, Shorter Lead Times

When a maintenance supply company needed a reliable source of appliance filters with shorter lead times, Duraflow Industries delivered. The company, a wholesale distributor that provides everything from lighting and plumbing to building materials and safety equipment, also wanted a supply chain partner who could provide attractive pricing without backorders.
The maintenance supply company had been using filters from Duraflow, but wasn't buying directly with the Cleveland, Ohio area filter manufacturer. By eliminating the middle man and going direct, the wholesale distributor secured better pricing and eliminated stock-outs. Today, the maintenance supply company gets all of the filters that its customers demand.

Lower Costs without Stock-Outs

The all-aluminum filters that the wholesale distributor orders are used in appliances such as range hoods and microwave ovens. Original equipment manufacturers (OEM) make these replacement filters, but OEM parts are more expensive. Aftermarket suppliers can provide replacement filters that cost less, but these companies apply a markup to the prices that they pay.

Markups aren't the only thing that wholesale distributors pay for. If replacement filters are out-of-stock, distributors can lose sales. By engaging Duraflow directly, the maintenance supply company ensured a reliable supply of cost-effective filters with just a three-day turnaround time. Duraflow keeps the aluminum frames and aluminum mesh in stock, and can fabricate and assemble filters on-demand.

One-Stop Filter Shopping

Today, Duraflow Industries works closely with the maintenance supply company to ensure a steady supply of a full line of replacement filters. That's why instead of worrying about back-orders and wondering if it's getting the best prices, the wholesale distributor depends on Duraflow as its single-source supplier. Some companies worry that sole sourcing carries risks, but it's a strategic procurement decision with benefits.

For example, by choosing Duraflow as its single-source supplier for filters, the maintenance supply company reduces the risk of product variation. The wholesale distributor also knows that appliance filters will arrive on-time and without defects. Late shipments and product returns add costs to the bottom line, so it's important to avoid supply chain disruptions.

Consistent, high-quality manufacturing also benefits the maintenance organizations and repair personnel who use Duraflow's replacement filters. Well-made filters that install readily help to control labor costs. Quality filters that last longer and require fewer replacements support the bottom line, too. Better prices and shorter lead times are important, but the value that Duraflow provides is a complete solution.

Learn More: