existing supplier

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "existing supplier" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a supplier that is already in place. For example: "We will continue to use our existing supplier for our current needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

Business

Energy

Supply Chain Management

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"Many people could cut their gas and electricity bills by moving to a better deal with their existing supplier, switching to another supplier altogether, or by taking up home insulation offers.

The Guardian - Money

Many students in rented accommodation think they can't switch, because they don't own the home or they would get in trouble with the landlord if they moved from the existing supplier.

Independent

According to Vaasaett, the lower the switching level, the easier it is for the big six to drive through price rises because it suggests customers have a greater tendency to stay with their existing supplier.

Independent

The regulator said npower had failed to get enough information from potential customers about their energy consumption to enable them to decide whether it was worth switching from their existing supplier.

Independent

A critical benefit of the proximity, the two executives noted, is that the new plant will be able to take advantage of Nissan's existing supplier and distribution network in Mexico.Inside the factory, the two partners also intend to benefit from economies of scale and cut development and manufacturing costs in half.

The Economist

The next stage involves some simple choices: Will your existing supplier offer a better deal?

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Most companies' existing suppliers are not yet on the Web, so purchasing agents see little reason to go there themselves.

The New York Times

Procurement managers often suffer from accusations of favouring traditional process over innovation and existing suppliers over new, better-value opportunities.

The Guardian

Willox said: "Maximising effective competition in the market is crucial, whether it involves bringing on new suppliers or changing the dynamics between existing suppliers".

The Guardian - Business

M&S said it had managed to boost clothing profit margins by buying fabric from fewer places and getting existing suppliers to move production to lower-cost countries.

The Guardian - Business

That initial deal did not get off the ground, but the firm subsequently found a way in by working with existing suppliers.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing changes in a supply chain, clearly differentiate between "existing suppliers" and potential new ones to avoid confusion.

Common error

Don't assume the quality from an "existing supplier" will always remain the same. Regularly evaluate their performance to ensure continued suitability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "existing supplier" functions as a noun phrase, where 'existing' acts as an adjective modifying the noun 'supplier'. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It identifies a supplier that is currently in use.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "existing supplier" is a common and grammatically correct term used to refer to a supplier that a business is currently using. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use across various contexts. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, formal business settings, and scientific publications. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by distinguishing between "existing suppliers" and potential new ones. Avoid assumptions about consistent quality from "existing suppliers"; regular performance evaluations are crucial. Alternatives include "current vendor" and "incumbent provider", each with slightly different nuances. By understanding its grammatical function, communicative purpose, and potential pitfalls, you can effectively use "existing supplier" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

current vendor

Replaces 'supplier' with 'vendor', implying a more formal business relationship.

incumbent provider

Uses 'incumbent' to emphasize the supplier's current position.

established source

Focuses on the supplier as a source that is already set up and reliable.

present contractor

Uses 'contractor' to describe a supplier under a formal contract.

long-standing vendor

Highlights the duration of the business relationship with the supplier.

regular provider

Indicates that the supplier provides services on a continuing basis.

usual source

Emphasizes the routine nature of using the supplier.

primary distributor

Focuses on the supplier's role as a distributor.

go-to supplier

Implies the supplier is the first choice.

preferred vendor

Indicates a prioritization of the supplier.

FAQs

How can I replace "existing supplier" in a sentence?

You can use alternatives such as "current vendor", "incumbent provider", or "established source" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "existing supplier" and "preferred supplier"?

"Existing supplier" simply indicates a supplier you are currently using, while "preferred supplier" suggests a supplier you favor over others, based on factors like quality, price, or service.

Is it better to stick with an "existing supplier" or look for a new one?

It depends on your needs. Staying with an "existing supplier" can offer consistency and established relationships. However, exploring new options may lead to better pricing, innovation, or improved service. Regularly evaluate your options.

How do I evaluate an "existing supplier's" performance?

Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) related to quality, cost, delivery, and service. Regularly monitor and compare the "existing supplier's" performance against these KPIs and industry benchmarks.