Revamping Supplier Support to Increase Collections & Activation Impact

How DCG helped an eatertainment client modernize its supplier support process, improve collection timing, and unlock more valuable beverage activation opportunities.
WHERE WE STARTED

The Challenge

The client’s supplier support program was underfunded, delayed, and limited in how funds could be used. Supplier support was invoiced in arrears, creating long collection lag times, missed supplier budget windows, and delayed vendor payments. At the same time, funds were primarily being applied to menu printing rather than broader, legally permitted activation opportunities that could drive stronger beverage performance.
Delayed collections and missed supplier budgets
Supplier funds limited primarily to menu printing
Complex commission structure and inefficient approval process
THE STRATEGY

The Approach

DCG developed a more transparent, proactive supplier support model designed to improve collections, strengthen supplier engagement, and direct funds toward higher-impact activation opportunities.
Supplier Spend & Depletion Analysis

DCG analyzed purchasing data, spend levels, and depletions to better understand supplier opportunity, support potential, and areas where the client could collect more effectively while maintaining strong partner relationships.

RFP & Support Structure Redesign

DCG implemented annual RFPs with active and potential suppliers, using industry benchmarks to determine appropriate support levels. This created a clearer, more consistent structure for supplier participation and improved transparency across the process.

Collection, Approval & Activation Process

DCG shifted supplier support invoicing to regular intervals in advance of activation and print expenses, provided transparent commission arrangements, created regular client reporting, and implemented vendor payment approval processes to reduce risk and ensure funds were used effectively.

“DCG transformed our supplier support process into a far more strategic and transparent program. Their approach improved collections, strengthened supplier relationships, and allowed us to reinvest those funds into activations that directly enhanced guest engagement and beverage performance.”
Beverage Operations Executive
Eatertainment Client
MEASURABLE IMPACT

The Results

By restructuring supplier support around proactive collections, transparent supplier engagement, and higher-impact activation opportunities, the client significantly improved annual funds collected and created more value for both operators and beverage partners.

+54%

Increase in Annual Supplier Funds Collected

Nearly 2x

Post-COVID Supplier Support Collections

YOY Growth

Incremental LBW Sales & Operator Engagement
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