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Mercan Properties’ Approach to Supplier Selection featured on Ambitur
Choosing a supplier for a hotel unit is a crucial process that requires strict criteria to ensure that both parties benefit from the partnership. Hotels seek reliable and long-term partners who can help overcome the daily operational challenges of a hotel. Ambitur spoke with hotel chains and independent hotels to understand their requirements and expectations.
At Mercan Properties, supplier selection is guided by multiple essential factors. Cláudia Oliveira, Senior Procurement Manager at AHM (part of Mercan Properties), explains that when it comes to operational stockable goods, price is a key factor, but equally important is forming trustworthy and long-term partnerships. The group prioritizes suppliers who offer daily support and help navigate price fluctuations.
Joana Mendes, Purchasing Director at Mercan Properties, adds that apart from meeting agreed deadlines, key requirements include price, the financial robustness of the company, and its ability to efficiently manage after-sales service. Cláudia Oliveira emphasizes that long-term relationships provide more advantages, fostering closer ties and trust, which facilitates securing benefits for both parties. However, these relationships require constant market analysis to ensure they remain trustworthy and competitive.
Sustainability and Quality in Supplier Choices
Sustainability is a core priority for Mercan Properties across various categories of products and services. According to Joana Mendes, in the OS&E (Operating Supplies and Equipment) category, suppliers must ensure their products align aesthetically and functionally with the branding and F&B concepts of the group's restaurants, while also prioritizing durability and cost-effectiveness.
For FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment), the focus extends to brand alignment, durability, functionality, guest and staff comfort, and safety. Regarding electronic equipment, key selection factors include energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Cláudia Oliveira highlights that, when it comes to amenities, many are defined by brand standards. However, for those that are not, the group carefully balances price and quality while ensuring sustainability remains a key consideration.
Hugo Padrão, Director of Sustainability at Mercan Properties, reinforces that sustainability is a major focus at AHM and Mercan Properties. The group is committed to leading the hospitality sector’s transition toward a more sustainable and innovative model.
Innovation and New Supplier Contracts
Regarding the introduction of new services and supplier contracts, Mercan Properties continuously monitors industry trends. The group is currently exploring opportunities to enhance the guest experience through personalized services, including wellness and spa offerings, as well as gastronomic experiences that showcase local culture and flavors.
New Mercan Properties projects aim to enrich guest experiences by emphasizing regional authenticity. Helena Valente, Marketing and Business Development Director at Mercan Properties, states that the company collaborates with local service providers and specialists to deliver exceptional experiences.
Technological Advancements and Sustainability in Procurement
In terms of technology and innovation, Mercan Properties is increasingly integrating artificial intelligence into its management systems to enhance hotel performance and operational efficiency. Sustainability remains at the heart of procurement decisions, ensuring that suppliers meet eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and cost-effective standards.
The group's product selection criteria focus primarily on guest experience and comfort, while also considering aesthetics, quality, durability, and ease of maintenance. For Mercan Properties, supplier selection goes beyond price—partnerships are built on trust, sustainability, and innovation, ensuring that the company stays at the forefront of the evolving hospitality landscape.