Sourcing & Suppliers

Supplier Audit

A supplier audit is a structured review of a supplier's processes, facilities or records to verify it meets agreed quality, compliance and performance standards.

Audits can be desktop reviews of documents and certificates, or on-site visits inspecting production lines, warehouses, quality controls and working conditions. They are used to qualify new suppliers, monitor existing ones and investigate problems. The findings feed corrective-action plans and decisions on whether to continue the relationship.

For higher-risk categories, periodic audits protect quality and reputation, and support responsible-sourcing commitments. A clear checklist keeps audits consistent across suppliers and creates an audit trail that satisfies internal governance and customer requirements.

Key points

  • Audits may be desktop (documents) or on-site (facilities and processes).
  • They verify quality systems, compliance, capacity and working conditions.
  • Findings drive corrective actions and continued-use decisions.

Frequently asked questions

What is a supplier audit?
A supplier audit is a structured review of a supplier's processes, facilities or records to confirm it meets agreed quality, compliance and performance standards.
How often should suppliers be audited?
It depends on risk and spend. Critical or high-risk suppliers may be audited annually, while low-risk suppliers might only be reviewed at onboarding or when an issue arises.

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