WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A SINGLE SOURCE SUPPLIER

Late deliveries. Confusing invoices. Inconsistent quality.

Ordering workwear and PPE from multiple suppliers can lead to confusion and chaos. 

Want to improve your PPE procurement process? Not sure where to start?

Don’t worry - this blog breaks it all down:

• FAQs about making the switch
• How to choose the right supplier
• The benefits of a single source supplier

Find everything you need, right here.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A SINGLE SOURCE SUPPLIER?

Switching to a single source PPE supplier can make a big difference. Not only will it save you time and reduce your admin, but it can also help to keep your teams safe. 

Want to take back control of your PPE procurement process? 

Here’s why we’d choose one supplier:

MORE CONTROL

With a single source supplier, you get more control over the whole procurement process.

This makes it easier to:

• Monitor stock levels
• Complete site audits
• Meet safety standards
• Stay within spending budgets

 

BETTER QUALITY

Using the same brands means your entire workforce can use the same high-quality gear.

This also means:

• Safer teams and less risk
• Always meets UK regulations
• Fewer faults mean fewer returns 
• Reliable equipment that performs

 

SAVE MONEY

Managing multiple suppliers means more accounts, more invoices, and more money spent. 

This means extra admin, delivery fees, and product price bumps eat into your budget.  

Want an easy fix? 

Consolidate orders for:

• Less delivery fees
• Lower admin costs
• Bulk buying discounts

 

EASIER PROCESS

With one supplier, like SMI, you often have a dedicated account manager. This makes it easier to place large orders and address potential issues. 

It also means:

• Easier invoicing 
• Simpler admin work
• Faster problem solving
• Fewer emails and phone calls

MORE TIME

With a single source supplier, you get faster deliveries and fewer delays.

The knock-on effect? Less time wasted tracking orders and chasing missing stock.

This smoother, faster PPE procurement process can save you time to do the things you really need to do.

HOW TO CHOOSE A SUPPLIER FOR WORKWEAR?

Not all single source suppliers are created equal.

How do you find the best one for your business?

Here’s what we’d look for:

BETTER PRODUCT RANGE 

Look for a supplier who offers everything you need - but all in one place.

This might include: 

• PPE
• Tools
• Workwear
• Safety footwear
• Cleaning and hygiene products

Always do your research to know your supplier covers all your needs.

Discover our complete product range for more inspiration!

NEED SOME HELP?

Call us on 0330 441 3500 or send us a message - our team are happy to help.

SECTOR EXPERTISE

A supplier with the right expertise can help you find the best PPE and workwear for your workplace.

Make sure your new single source supplier understands your business so they can help keep you compliant. 

Ask yourself:

• Do they understand your sector?
• How long have they been in business?
• Are their teams knowledgeable about products?
• Can they help you choose the right kit for your workplace?

Discover the many sectors we support in our blog.

STOCK AVAILABILITY

Simply brokering orders often causes delays.

To reduce delays, check if your new workwear supplier: 

• Delivers directly instead of relying on external couriers.
• Offers next-day delivery for unbranded PPE and workwear.
• Has clear SLAs, so you know exactly when to expect your gear.
• Can dispatch branded items fast, ideally within 2 days (like SMI).
• Keeps you updated with delivery tracking and good communication.
• Hold stock themselves, so you’re not waiting on third-party deliveries.

EFFICIENT ORDERING AND SUPPORT

A user-friendly digital ordering platform saves time and energy.

Look for suppliers with user-friendly portals like MY-SMI for quick and streamlined ordering.

Excellent customer support matters too. 

Choose a supplier with a dedicated customer experience and an account manager who knows your sector.

 

INCLUSIVE AND ECO-FRIENDLY

Can your new single source supplier help you achieve your corporate goals?
Do they offer eco-friendly or inclusive workwear?

Always choose a workwear supplier who can support all your business needs.

Look for:

• Tailored catalogues
• Broad product ranges
• Branded workwear options

Did you know? We also offer custom branding services!

Get in touch today to find out how we can help.

CHOOSING A PPE SUPPLIER – WHY SMI TICKS ALL THE BOXES

SMI is more than just a single source supplier - we’re your full-service supplier.

Here’s why we stand out:

• MY-SMI portal - Simple, fast, and controlled ordering.
• 25K+ products available - Everything you need in one place.
• Single source supply – Simplify ordering, cut costs, stay efficient.
• Inclusive & eco-friendly options – Sustainable, ethical, and diverse.

Dive into everything MY-SMI can do for your business.

CHOOSING A PPE SUPPLIER THAT WORKS LIKE PART OF YOUR TEAM

Choose SMI to make PPE procurement easier, cheaper, and more reliable.

You’ll get a dedicated account manager who understands your business. We feel like part of your team, not just another supplier.

Plus, we save you time, money, and reduce risks.

Ready to get started? Chat with our friendly team today. 

Drop us a message, or give us a call on 0330 441 3500.

FAQs

IS A SINGLE SOURCE SUPPLIER MORE EXPENSIVE?

No. Combining orders saves money by cutting admin and delivery costs.

CAN I STILL GET BRANDED WORKWEAR FROM A SINGLE SUPPLIER?

Yes. Many suppliers, including SMI, offer fully branded and compliant workwear and PPE.

Don’t forget - we offer full branding options for all your team.

Dive into all our branding tips and tricks for success in our blog.

WHAT IF I NEED SOMETHING OUTSIDE YOUR STANDARD RANGE?

A good supplier grows with your needs. 

A good single source supplier should offer custom orders, tailored catalogues, and specialised products.

At SMI, we tailor our service around you.

Chat to our friendly team today or check out our 2025/2026 catalogue.