In our previous timeout tips, we talked about the key qualities to look for in your uniform supplier — things like reliability, service, and consistency.

This week, we’re diving a little deeper. Let’s chat about the actual steps you should take when evaluating suppliers — because it’s not just about finding who to work with, but also making sure your club’s needs are clearly defined so both sides are on the same page from day one.

Here’s how to get started   

1. Define Your Needs: Before reaching out to anyone, be clear on what you’re after — quality standards, budget range, delivery timelines, and even ethical considerations. Knowing your must-haves helps you filter out the noise and find the right fit faster.

2. Research Extensively: Use online directories, industry contacts, and trade shows to find potential suppliers. The key takeaway is that you’ll often find great suppliers through word-of-mouth from other clubs or associations.

3. Request Information: Send out detailed RFQs (Request for Quotation) to shortlisted suppliers.

4. Interview and Communicate: Hop on a call or send a few emails to get a feel for their communication style. Are they responsive? Do they really understand your needs? This is often a good indicator of what working with them long-term will look like.

5. Order Samples: This is crucial. Ask for samples and pay attention to the fabric quality, stitching, print accuracy, and turnaround time. It’s the best way to see if what they promise matches what they deliver.

6. Start Small: Consider starting with a smaller order to test the waters before committing to a large production run.

7. Check References: Reach out to some of their existing clients. A quick chat can tell you a lot about consistency, reliability, and how they handle issues when they come up.

8. Visit Facilities (if possible): If feasible, an on-site visit can provide invaluable insight into their operations.

✅ Pro Tip: The goal isn’t just to find a supplier — it’s to find a partner who understands your team’s goals, deadlines, and culture.

Download and Share!

Click the image to share this infographic with your members.

Got any other evaluation tips that worked for your club? Drop them in the comments — we’d love to hear what’s worked for you!

If you’d like to learn more about how C2C Sports can take the heavy lifting out of your uniforms and merchandise, we’d love to chat!

📧 Email us at sales@c2csport.com or call 02 6581 1558.

You can also book a free online demo to see how our C2C Locker Room makes managing and ordering team gear simple, fast, and stress-free.

And for our local community — our Community Lockers offer 24/7 ordering convenience for Port Macquarie Hastings clubs. It’s our way of helping local teams thrive and focus on what truly matters — getting kids on the court.