How do I take over a store’s supplier ordering accounts after buying it?

Ask the seller for each supplier, the products they provide, how orders are placed, delivery days, minimums and payment terms. Mark which ones are essential to opening day. Contact them with the seller’s introduction and ask what they need from you, such as application forms, financial information or a deposit. Many suppliers will want a new account, not a transfer, because credit terms were based on the seller. Be ready for stricter terms at first and plan your cash for it. Ask your accountant to compare balances owing with the books, and your lawyer to make sure the agreement leaves the seller’s old debts with the seller.

Watch the transition days closely. Place a first order early enough to arrive before the seller’s stock runs low. Learn the delivery drivers and the ordering rhythm. Finally, review what the store buys and whether other suppliers would serve you better. Do this after you have steady ordering, not in the middle of the handover. Keep a simple calendar of order days so nothing is missed in the first weeks.

Key takeaways

• List every supplier, the terms, the minimums and the delivery days.
• Call essential suppliers before closing with the seller’s introduction.
• Plan cash for stricter terms in the first weeks.
• Keep the seller’s old debts out of your accounts in writing.