Cuan Beag Studio makes small-batch tableware and gifts, but its early purchasing was concentrated among a few large distributors because they were easy to order from. The team took the Buy Small pledge to make room for independent suppliers whose materials and services were closer to home. They set a target of directing one in every five supplier euros to independent businesses and started recording purchases by supplier size. The studio now buys packaging from a family-run Cork printer, uses a local kiln technician, and sources some finishing materials from a small Irish wholesaler. In the first six months, 23 percent of its supplier spending went to independent businesses, up from 11 percent. The change has not meant choosing a supplier on size alone; quality and dependable delivery still matter. The owners say the new tracking has simply made small suppliers visible in decisions where they were previously overlooked, and helped them build more resilient relationships.
