Supplying to the top

A University College Cork (UCC) start-up passed its 1,000th buyer recently as companies look to save more time and money with suppliers.

The start-up, supply.ie, offers businesses the opportunity to shop around for the best prices from suppliers locally and nationally.

“Reaching 1,000 buyers is a massive milestone for us as it gives a great endorsement to our novel business,” said founder Mike McGrath.

“We are saving lots of companies lots of money and word is spreading. Only yesterday, a restaurant client of ours saved over 30 per cent on a new piece of kitchen equipment which we strategically sourced on their behalf.”

To coincide with the achievement, supply.ie has launched a mobile version of the site, compatible with both Apple and Android devices. 

“It has taken us 18 months to reach 1,000 buyers but with the growth in mobile, we should reach 2,000 in eight months,” commented Mike.

“Most of our suppliers' sales reps are on the road so this will allow them to respond from their handsets while our busy buyers can send us buying requests while on the go also. This latest milestone and mobile launch epitomise our recent good fortune while demonstrating our commitment to saving Irish businesses time, money and hassle.”

Mike has recently seen his work in the mobile development rewarded through his appointment to the European Commission expert group advising on European e-procurement.

Supply.ie was awarded the Best Company award at the recent IGNITE Awards Ceremony in UCC. The company also received the Most Collegial award for IGNITE, in partnership with Cork city and County Enterprise Boards

“The IGNITE programme is a demonstration of UCC’s unique approach to fostering innovation in the graduate community,” said Vice-President for Research and Innovation, Professor Anita Maguire.

“By creating the conditions which smooth the path from lecture theatre and lab to marketplace, UCC is investing in the future – the future of its students, helping to create new products and employment and playing a lead role in the economic development of our country.”