The Key to Customer Retention for B2B Suppliers:

Reliable Delivery

The UK’s goods market continues to grow in value, reflecting a business landscape that relies heavily on efficient supply chains in the dynamic world of B2B commerce. Currently, the UK B2B goods market is worth over £1 trillion, underpinning the operations of countless industries — from manufacturing to retail. However, with this scale comes complexity. Modern supply chains involve a vast network of suppliers, manufacturers, distributors and retailers, all working together to ensure products reach their destinations in a timely manner. 

Timely and accurate delivery is not just an expectation; it’s a necessity. This is particularly true as many businesses now operate on a ‘just in time’ (JIT) model. This approach minimises excess stock, allowing companies to reduce storage costs and ease pressure on cash flow. However, the effectiveness of JIT systems depends entirely on the reliability of supply chain. Any delivery delays or inaccuracies can cause significant disruption.

Amid this complexity, businesses need a delivery solution that gives them the flexibility, control and visibility needed to achieve the most critical element of success: reliable delivery.

The Ripple Effect of Delivery Failures

When a delivery goes awry in the B2C sector, it typically affects one individual customer. This leads to a customer service issue that may be resolved through a refund or replacement. But in the B2B world, the stakes are considerably higher. A single delayed or incorrect delivery can impact not just the business directly involved, but also hundreds of end users further down the supply chain. A Statista study of supply chain professionals found that supply chain disruptions and shortages were the biggest challenge they faced.

For example, consider a manufacturing company waiting for key components to continue production. If these parts are delayed, the entire production line may come to a halt, leading to missed deadlines, unhappy clients and potentially cancelled contracts. The losses here aren’t just monetary. They extend to wasted time spent chasing deliveries, damage to business relationships and, in many cases, a tarnished reputation that might push buyers towards alternative suppliers. It’s a snag in the interconnected industry web that will be felt on every thread. 

This web effect makes reliable delivery a cornerstone of customer retention. A buyer who repeatedly faces issues with delivery will soon look elsewhere for a supplier who can guarantee a seamless experience.

How GFS Multi-Carrier Services Support Reliable Delivery

For B2B suppliers looking to minimise these risks, GFS offers a robust solution. Our multi-carrier services are designed to handle the demands and limitations of today’s supply chains, ensuring goods are delivered on time and in full. Whether you’re supplying to SMEs or large enterprises, our flexible solutions are tailored to meet the specific needs of your business.

At GFS, we don’t just provide access to multiple carriers. We also offer the best delivery solutions, fully on your terms, to give you peace of mind. As part of our Managed Multi-Carrier Services, we take the hassle out of delivery by actively managing every shipment through the proprietary delivery management software that comes complimentary with our carrier management service. With a long track record of delivering high-quality services that businesses depend on, our Customer Care team use their unique knowledge and experience to identify and resolve delivery issues before they impact your business customers.

Preventing Problems Before They Arise

The complexity of modern supply chains means problems can occur at any stage, but with GFS on your side, you don’t have to worry. We use cutting-edge technology and data analytics to track and predict potential issues, giving our customers the confidence that their deliveries will arrive as planned. And if something does go wrong, our team steps in to resolve it — before your business customers are even aware.

We also understand that every business is unique and that the delivery of critical and complex shipments needs control and precision. Which is why we work with businesses to create tailored solutions that match their delivery profile and needs; whether that be by giving you greater control of your delivery costs, complete visibility on tracking, extended collection times or increased operational flexibility.

Future-Proofing Your Business

In an increasingly competitive market, businesses cannot afford to lose customers due to delivery failures. By partnering with GFS, you’re not just outsourcing your logistics—you’re investing in a future-proof solution that scales with your business needs. With over 20 years experience, and leveraged by our buying power and multi-carrier network, GFS has unmatched access to 1,000+ domestic and international delivery services across all major carriers. From next-day to tracked and deferred deliveries, you’ll have the unprecedented flexibility needed to meet your business needs, all under one integration.

Customer retention in the B2B space is about more than just price and product quality. It’s about trust. Let GFS help you win that trust and fulfil your promises to your B2B customers—and in doing so, keep them coming back again and again.