Woolworths launches new supplier portal

By James Atkinson

Woolworths Liquor Group has launched a new supplier portal the company says will make it easier for new and existing partners to work with the business and reduce the time for innovative products to reach customers.

The portal, which can be found at wlgpartners.com.au, is free to use and contains information to assist suppliers in submitting new products for consideration.

Brad Banducci (pictured), director of Woolworths Liquor Group (WLG), said the portal was another important step towards improving relationships with partners.

“Customers want new and interesting products and our supplier portal will make it easier for suppliers to understand our business and reduce the time for exciting new products to hit our shelves,” he said. 

“Our new website makes life a lot easier for suppliers who are looking to sell their products nationally, but is also flexible enough to service a small boutique producer who just wants to have their products ranged in their local store.”

The portal explains in simple steps how to become a new supplier, or submit products for consideration. Key features include:

• New product application form 
• An easy checklist to submit products for consideration 
• Contact details for all WLG buyers across the brands 
• Publication of the range review calendar for Dan Murphy’s and BWS 
• An overview of the decision making process involved in selecting and adding new items to each brand

Local, regional, state or national ranging

The portal also provides an overview of how many stores Woolworths Liquor Group has in each state and the distribution and supply chain network that suppliers can take advantage of to get their products ranged either locally, in a region, in a state, or nationally.

“We know customers chase many different things – experiences, authenticity, flavours, health and wellbeing – so we need to ensure our range is not homogenous but tailored to suit a particular state, region or store,” the portal says.

Key news and updates from the drinks retail world will also be available on the portal.

“If we are to keep satisfied the three million customers visiting one of our stores and websites every week, we need to earn their loyalty by delivering the right product range at the right price,” Banducci said.

“We can only do this by entering commercial partnerships that are mutually beneficial and promote a sustainable and diverse industry.”