Ecommerce Growth

Preparing for Supplier Outreach and Brand Approval Requests

What suppliers look for in a new reseller, how to write a first message, and how to prepare genuine documents for approval requests.

Suppliers receive many requests from new resellers. The ones that get answered are clear, professional and easy to verify. Preparation before you send your first email makes a real difference.

Prepare your business profile

Before contacting anyone, make sure the basics are consistent everywhere:

  • Your registered company name and number.
  • A business address and phone number.
  • A domain email address rather than a free webmail address.
  • A simple website that explains who you are and how to contact you.
  • Tax or resale documents your suppliers' country commonly requires.

If any of these are missing, see Company Formation and our business support services.

Write a clear first message

Keep it short. Introduce your company, explain which marketplaces you sell on, say which of their products interest you and ask how to open a wholesale account. Avoid exaggerating your size or sales. Suppliers check, and accuracy builds trust.

Follow up professionally

If you do not hear back, follow up once or twice over a few weeks. Keep a simple record of who you contacted, when, and what they replied. When a supplier asks questions, answer promptly and completely.

Understanding brand and category approvals

Some brands and categories on Amazon require approval before you can list. Requirements are set by Amazon, change over time and differ by marketplace. Applications often ask for invoices from authorised suppliers.

Every document you submit must be genuine and in your own name. Altered or borrowed invoices can lead to account suspension. Approval is always Amazon's decision.

Build the relationship

A supplier account is the start of a relationship. Pay on time, order consistently and respect their pricing and marketplace policies. Good relationships can lead to better terms and earlier access to new products over time, although nothing is guaranteed.

How we help

Brand & Supplier Sourcing helps you build a target list, and Brand Relationships & Approval Support helps with outreach, communication and preparing approval requests.

Portrait of Nasir Mehmood

About the author

Nasir Mehmood is CEO of ECom Seller Core and writes about Amazon and ecommerce. Meet our team.

This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules and procedures change; check current official sources or ask a licensed professional about your situation.