Most retail operators leave money on the table with suppliers. Here are 5 tactics I've used to cut costs without sacrificing quality:

1. Always get 3 quotes minimum. Even if you love your current supplier. The leverage alone gets you 10-15% off.

2. Negotiate payment terms, not just price. Net 60 instead of Net 30 can be worth more than a 5% discount when you factor in cash flow.

3. Bundle your orders. Consolidating SKUs with fewer suppliers gets you volume pricing that individual orders never will.

4. Ask for samples before committing. Quality issues after a big order kill your margins faster than paying retail.

5. Build real relationships. Suppliers give their best deals to retailers they trust with consistent volume. Be reliable and they'll reward you.

These aren't secrets — they're habits. The retailers who do this consistently win.

I share strategies like this daily inside MallMaker Network. If you're serious about scaling your retail operation, the waitlist is open.