One of our clients who is a leader in consumer products, encountered significant sourcing challenges for their audio wire. They required 41,000 pieces annually, each 100 ft long with a 14 AWG gauge and a crossed area of 1.90 mm² (2C). The product specifications demanded a copper clad aluminum core with a rugged PVC jacket available in frosted blue/black and brown. Suppliers were required to hold ISO9001 certification, have US export experience, and possess production capacity for 35,000 to 41,000 pieces per year. Initially, 51 suppliers were identified; however, only 10 passed a telephone pre-screening, exposing the client to potential revenue losses of up to $1M if delays occurred. Regulatory challenges in Mexico – where 100% copper is mandated for audio wire manufacture – further complicated the client’s alloy requirement and intensified the need for a swift resolution.
Dragon Sourcing implemented a structured, two-stage methodology over a 9‑week period. Phase 1 began on Week 0 (14 March 2022) and encompassed demand analysis, supply market analysis, and telephone pre-screening. Out of 50 suppliers contacted, 30 were engaged and 12 shortlisted for RFI/RFQ distribution. Subsequently, 10 suppliers received the RFI/RFQ, and 8 provided complete responses with RFI scores of 90%, 87%, 74%, 66%, and 60%. Phase 2 focused on supplier audits, sample development, and contract negotiations. Weekly follow-up reports every Friday ensured that all activities adhered to the timeline, minimizing risks and expediting decision-making.
The project successfully reduced the supplier pool from 51 to 8 pre-qualified vendors in 1 country. The final suppliers met all mandatory requirements, including ISO9001 certification and the capacity to produce between 35,000 and 41,000 pieces annually. Despite regulatory constraints, the client received detailed, ranked supplier profiles and actionable recommendations. Dragon Sourcing’s quantitative approach and strict adherence to a 9‑week schedule delivered significant cost reductions, enhanced supply chain stability, and a competitive market advantage. This comprehensive, data‑driven case study exemplifies Dragon Sourcing’s ability to leverage numerical insights and rigorous screening to achieve optimal supplier selection with excellence.