US SMEs Shift Focus to Cost-Effective and Trendy Supplier Partnerships in 2025

New research highlights that 44% of US SMEs are changing their suppliers to enhance efficiency and product quality.

NEW YORK, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A significant shift is occurring among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the USA. According to recent data from Alibaba.com, a major player in global B2B e-commerce, these businesses are reevaluating their product sourcing strategies this year.

Data shows that over one-third of US SMEs (36%) prioritize sourcing products at lower prices in 2025. Other key focuses include finding reputable suppliers (35%), acquiring trendy products to attract new customers (33%), and sourcing sustainable products (27%).

Notably, nearly half of the SMEs (44%) indicated they plan to change suppliers*, opting for digital channels like online B2B marketplaces. Almost two-thirds of the surveyed SMEs (59%) expressed that digital sourcing^† has become more important^‡ compared to last year, showing a growing preference for direct sourcing—purchasing goods directly from suppliers instead of through intermediaries.

This study surveyed 1,000 sourcing decision-makers at SMEs in the USA. It coincides with the upcoming March Expo 2025, Alibaba.com’s annual B2B sourcing event, which connects buyers and sellers worldwide and highlights new product opportunities and supplier partnerships. During the expo, buyers can access thousands of sustainable products and take advantage of over two million discounts with product certification.

Kuo Zhang, President, Alibaba.com, stated: “US SMEs are adopting a more strategic approach to sourcing, concentrating on affordability, trend alignment, and supplier reliability to maintain their competitive edge. Our research indicates that SMEs are looking beyond just cost savings and seeking new suppliers to secure their future success. As they embrace digital sourcing, they gain greater flexibility and access to a broader array of products for their growth needs.”

To assist SMEs in adapting to these evolving market conditions, March Expo 2025 will showcase over one million new products at competitive prices. Additionally, buyers can access coupons worth between $5 and $500 during check-out. First-time orders will receive up to $20 off shipping fees if fulfilled through Alibaba.com.

March Expo is set to kick off on March 1 via Alibaba.com.

Notes to Editors

This research was conducted by Censuswide among 1,000 decision-makers (aged 18+) in US SMEs responsible for sourcing in companies with fewer than 150 employees (excluding sole proprietors).

Data collection took place from January 31, 2025 to February 6, 2025. Censuswide adheres to the Market Research Society’s code of conduct, in line with ESOMAR principles.

* Responses categorized as ‘Strongly agree’ and ‘Somewhat agree’ were combined.
† Refers to sourcing products through online B2B marketplaces.
‡ Responses classified as ‘Much more important’ and ‘More important’ were combined.

About Alibaba.com

Founded in 1999, Alibaba.com is a prominent player in global business-to-business (B2B) e-commerce, catering to buyers and suppliers from over 200 countries and regions. The platform supports various commerce aspects, enabling businesses to reach a global audience, discover products, and place orders quickly and efficiently. Alibaba.com is a part of the Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group.

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SOURCE Alibaba.com