Overview

SME contractors struggled with price discovery and delivery windows. The marketplace enabled RFQs, negotiated pricing, and integrated delivery quotes.

Key Moves

  • Supplier onboarding with verified stock locations and daily price updates.
  • Buyer RFQ + counter‑offer chat; escrow for high‑value orders.
  • Logistics module: truck capacity, lead times, and route pricing.
  • Analytics for suppliers: win rates, quote turnaround, and seasonality.

Outcomes

  • Faster sourcing; fewer delivery disputes; better supplier utilization.
  • Transparent competition lowered prices for buyers while expanding supplier reach.

Lessons (Unit 8 lens)

  • B2B marketplaces must embed workflow (RFQ, approvals) and logistics to add real value.
  • Trust levers (verification, escrow) are critical for high‑ticket trades.

Chapters covered

  • Net marketplaces and procurement flows (8.4)
  • Collaboration and logistics integration (8.2)