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We contacted a weaver firm seeking a type of cotton with a sample of the finished product we wanted to reproduce from 1950's. We explained that we were looking for a large scale supplier of cotton but another firm + potential supplier, 600 quoted to provide a sample, but were doubtful they could produce the weave we needed the new firm said that they understood and that if we could provide the thread materials and deliver them, then they would have a go.
At no point did they suggest any charges in writing or verbally. My understanding was they would try to win our ongoing custom for large scale supplies. We paid for raw materials threads and also offered to pay any postage costs of the finished sample if they were able to provide a sample ( based on the cotton we had provided).
We then were sent two samples both are not remotely like our sample along with an invoice for £700 + claiming 20 hours at £29 a hour. We plan to return the samples as it's not fit for purpose. The invoice is outsourced to a small firm. when. It was my clear understanding that no costs were involved it was a punt by the firm to see if they could supply it. I pay for materials and post they take a punt.
As suppliers, they must know that the samples have failed against the cotton we provided. I don't know how to respond and would be grateful for advice on the matter to stop it spiralling out of control. When I queried why I had been invoiced given that no costs were ever discussed or quotes provided the invoicing firm said quotes were not requested. clearly, I did not request one as I did not enter into this agreement, and did not get fit for purpose goods. I would have considered paying it if it had resulted in a workable sample.
I know its a small amount but we need to get the product of the ground. Any advice on key steps of how to respond will be gratefully received.
At no point did they suggest any charges in writing or verbally. My understanding was they would try to win our ongoing custom for large scale supplies. We paid for raw materials threads and also offered to pay any postage costs of the finished sample if they were able to provide a sample ( based on the cotton we had provided).
We then were sent two samples both are not remotely like our sample along with an invoice for £700 + claiming 20 hours at £29 a hour. We plan to return the samples as it's not fit for purpose. The invoice is outsourced to a small firm. when. It was my clear understanding that no costs were involved it was a punt by the firm to see if they could supply it. I pay for materials and post they take a punt.
As suppliers, they must know that the samples have failed against the cotton we provided. I don't know how to respond and would be grateful for advice on the matter to stop it spiralling out of control. When I queried why I had been invoiced given that no costs were ever discussed or quotes provided the invoicing firm said quotes were not requested. clearly, I did not request one as I did not enter into this agreement, and did not get fit for purpose goods. I would have considered paying it if it had resulted in a workable sample.
I know its a small amount but we need to get the product of the ground. Any advice on key steps of how to respond will be gratefully received.
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