Suppliers: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in business contexts to refer to companies or individuals that provide goods or materials, especially in the manufacturing industry.

• We need to find new suppliers for the raw materials.
• Our suppliers have assured us of the quality of the products.

Refers to entities that sell products or services, especially in retail settings or online marketplaces. Can also refer to people selling goods in public spaces like markets.

• There are many food vendors at the festival.
• We need to compare prices from different vendors before making a purchase.

Often used to describe organizations or individuals that supply services, not just physical goods. This term is prevalent in sectors like healthcare, IT, and telecommunications.

• Our internet service provider has been very reliable.
• The healthcare providers in this area are some of the best in the country.

Refers to entities that buy products from manufacturers and resell them, typically to retailers or directly to consumers.

• The distributors are responsible for getting the products to the stores.
• We have partnered with several distributors to expand our market reach.