Overview

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

flowchart LR
    BUY[Contractor Buyer] --> RFQ[Submit RFQ]
    RFQ --> SUP1[Supplier Quote A]
    RFQ --> SUP2[Supplier Quote B]
    SUP1 --> NEG[Counter-Offer Chat]
    SUP2 --> NEG
    NEG --> ESC[Escrow Payment]
    ESC --> LOG[Logistics and Delivery]
    LOG --> BUY

Figure 1: Construction B2B Marketplace RFQ Workflow

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

Use the unit notes below to review the theory this case applies in practice.

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