Well we haven’t seen this since the last great disaster, the Great Recession back in 2009. We had hoped to never see a letter like this again as it tells us about the turbulent times we are living in. However like 2009 this too will pass.

“Dear Valued Supplier, 

We are in a time of unprecedented change and volatility.  The risk of COVID 19, the market crash, and the impact on the price of oil, have made our market conditions nearly impossible to operate in.  XXXX Heat Treating, like many other companies, is unable to meet break even rate in these current conditions.  Our customers have reached out for assistance to minimize their losses. We are now asking for your support as well in these challenging times.  Effective immediately, XXXX Heat Treating is requesting a minimum 15% discount on all services/items purchased from you.  This is a temporary request during these extraordinary times.  Our goal is to partner with our key suppliers during this time to work towards stabilizing all business operations.  We all want to survive to a point of market stability. It is our belief that this is a fair and reasonable approach that gives XXXX Heat Treating and our customers a fighting chance to remain financially viable as we work through these unprecedented challenges. Please respond back with your response/proposal by end of day, March 24th, 2020.

Thank you in advance for your support and understanding.  If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me directly.  I want to thank you for your support and cooperation in this challenging time. Please stay safe.”