Ask an Expert
What can be done when a company does not want to sell their product?
Expert: John R Mott
Keith asked:
If a company does not want to sell me there product to sell in my store, can I purchase it from another source including the USA and resell it in my store.
John R Mott answered:
It would be best to understand why this company does not wish to sell to you. If the reason is that you are too small, then it would be perfectly appropriate to seek out a distributor who is willing to deal with smaller orders.
On the other hand, someone else may have the exclusive rights to sell this product in your territory and you would want to know that before investing anything into this product. I ran into this problem many years ago. As a teenager, I ran a small scuba equipment shop from my parent's basement. I thought I was quite clever when I found a French supplier for a technically advanced diving fin that I could not procure in North America. Fortunately, the French firm discovered their territorial restrictions before I put down any money.
About the author
John Mott is a chartered accountant and tax specialist with a private practice in mid-town Toronto. He provides tax, accounting and advisory services to individuals and small businesses. He may be visited online at: johnmott.com.