Blog / The Buyer’s Guide to Smarter Supplier Selection at B2B Matchmaking Events

Sourcing the right supplier at a B2B matchmaking event is a high-stakes decision. With the global market becoming more interconnected and competition intensifying, businesses need to be strategic in their approach. The upcoming Wabel summit in Dubai offers an unparalleled opportunity to meet potential suppliers that can drive your business forward. However, the big question is how do you ensure that you’re making the most of this opportunity?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to smarter supplier selection at the B2B matchmaking event and help you maximize your investment.

Have a Clear Understanding of Your Business Needs

Before you enter a B2B matchmaking event, take time to reflect on your business needs. Are you looking for cost-efficient manufacturers or premium suppliers? Do you need innovative packaging solutions or sustainable raw materials? What are your quality, compliance and sustainability standards?

Understanding your business needs will help you navigate the matchmaking process more clearly. The more specific you are about the requirements, the better you can select suppliers who align with your goals. Remember, in a dynamic business environment, clarity at the outset allows you to connect with the right suppliers who can help you with your objectives.

Do Your Pre-Event Research

Do you know Wabel allows buyers to view the detailed profiles of potential suppliers ahead of the meeting? Now, it’s your job to make the most of this opportunity. Research their offerings, past clients, and any available case studies. Ask yourself: Do the products offered fit your business well? Does their value align with your company’s vision?

At Wabel Summit, we handpick the supplier carefully to deliver value to businesses of all sizes. Doing your research beforehand ensures you make informed decisions, setting the stage for meaningful interactions once the event begins.

Leverage Personalization for Better Matches

The B2B matchmaking event is all about personalized matchmaking. They use smart algorithms to ensure that you’re connected with the suppliers who are best fit for your business. However, to fully benefit from this feature, you must be proactive.

Fill out your profile thoroughly and share your challenges, business goals, and specific requirements. The more you disclose your needs, the more likely you will be matched with suppliers who can provide customized solutions. Wabel’s personalized matchmaking experience increases your chances of meeting suppliers who truly understand your business and can help drive it forward.

Focus on Long-Term Partnerships, Not Just Short-Term Solutions

While it’s important to assess the immediate benefits a supplier can bring, think long-term when making your decisions. The FMCG market is fast-moving, and demand fluctuations are common. You need suppliers who can quickly adapt to market changes and scale production.

When evaluating suppliers, ask:

• How quickly can they scale up production if demand spikes?
• Do they have multiple manufacturing locations to reduce supply chain risks?
• Are they flexible regarding packaging, product variations, and custom formulations?

The right supplier should not just meet today’s demand but also support your future growth.

Ask the Right Questions to Evaluate Suppliers

A supplier’s portfolio and pricing might look great on paper, but a deeper conversation is necessary to ensure they’re the right fit.

Here are some key questions to ask potential FMCG suppliers at the summit:

• What is your MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) and lead time?
• Can you handle seasonal demand spikes?
• Do you offer private-label or white-label options?
• What are your sustainability and ethical sourcing policies?
• What is your defect rate, and how do you handle product issues?
• Can you provide references from existing clients in the sector?

Suppliers that can answer these questions transparently are more likely to be reliable partners in the long run.

Maximize Your Summit Experience: Build Lasting Supplier Partnerships

The B2B matchmaking event is more than just a networking event; it’s a game-changing platform for buyers to connect with world-class suppliers. You can secure partnerships that enhance your supply chain and product offerings by defining your needs, researching, and leveraging smart matchmaking.

Remember: The best suppliers don’t just provide products; they provide value, innovation, and scalability. By following this guide, you can leave the B2B matchmaking event with trusted supplier partnerships that will fuel your business’s growth.

See you at the Wabel Summit in Dubai—where smarter sourcing meets smarter partnerships!