In the world of sports, where efficiency and speed are crucial, selecting the right suppliers can make the difference between the success and failure of a project. Sometimes, despite all the effort and planning, things don’t go as expected.
In one of our projects with a prestigious European football club, we acted as the liaison between the club and three companies specializing in sports equipment and technology. Everything seemed to be going smoothly: after a successful negotiation, the proposal was accepted, and the implementation plan was set in motion.
Two of the suppliers delivered without any issues, but the third turned what was supposed to be a 10-week delivery period into a 7-month wait. More than half the season was lost without being able to take advantage of the new equipment and technology. The situation created significant tension, as the club, understandably, demanded immediate answers and solutions.
How We Handled the Situation
To minimize the impact of this setback, we adopted three key strategies:
- Full Transparency with the Client:
We kept the club informed at all times about the status of the project, clearly explaining the reasons for the delays and offering realistic solutions. Frequent and honest communication helped maintain trust.
- Thorough Documentation with the Supplier:
For future claims and negotiations, it was crucial to have all communications and agreements documented in writing. This allowed us to put pressure on the supplier to fulfill their commitments.
- Empathy and Problem-Solving Approach:
Instead of assigning blame, we focused on resolving the issue as efficiently as possible, understanding the club’s frustration and mediating with the supplier to speed up delivery.
In the end, although the delay was significant, we managed to ensure that the client was satisfied with the resolution, and we were able to continue strengthening our relationship with the club.
Lesson Learned
This case highlights the importance of choosing the right suppliers in the sports industry. It’s not just about price or technical specifications but also about their responsiveness, commitment, and ability to meet deadlines.
At Pro SportSales, we continuously work to ensure that our clients have the best partners to bring their projects to success.