"Telstar Electronics" wrote...
"Rectifier" wrote...

His website claims that Mouser Electronics is a "partner." Searches on
Mouser for "Telstar" and "VoiceMax" return zero results. Hmm. . does
buying some parts from Mouser make them a "partner." If so, I'm a
"partner" with Mouser, too.

The dictionary defines partner as "One that is united or associated
with another or others in an activity or a sphere of common interest."
So yes, in your example... you would be a partner of Mouser.

BS.

Look a little further...
United: In agreement and acting together.
Associated: Connected with each other.
Partnership: Relationship in which two or more people, organizations
or countries work together.
(Collins)
Key terms are "connected", "agreement" and "relationship". These suggest
an existing and continuing link, discussions leading to the agreement and
more intimate knowledge of each other.

A partnership suggests commitment, usually in writing and signed by all
parties. It works both ways, with all partners having some say in the
activities - with goals, roles, policies, financial details, etc. defined in
the agreement. There will be continual contact between the partners,
allowing them to work together on issues.

Buying a product, using a service or paying fees to an organization is
simply a transaction. Once the sale is made, there is no further
connection between the two parties.
There was never a "relationship", they are unlikely to know anything
about you (or the business) or what you do.
You do NOT act together and in agreement. They decide what they will
stock and what they will charge, you decide what you will buy and what
you are willing to pay.
If the two happen to match, then what takes place is a transaction. At all
times, both parties remain independent.

Unless you and your suppliers have agreed to be "partners", are in
regular contact, work together on products or services and have
some agreement and commitment defining your roles - then you
are NOT partners.

Being "associated" with the wrong product or organization can cause an
organization to lose business, income or even investors and share-holders.
Some companies could go bust if that kind of thing were to happen. If
they had not agreed to the "association", they could sue the living crap
out of the person or organization who caused the losses.

The companies you name may say nothing now but, unless you have
their written agreement that they are "partners" and that their name can
be associated with you and your product, they could suddenly decide
that you have harmed their brand.
Don't kid yourself that a small basement "business", with one cheap
product and an annual turnover below the minimum wage, will be seen
as a valuble advertising proposition.


Maybe, you could qualify the "partner" suggestion, or use a better term...
"Trading partners". This would still require some commitment between the
"partners" to trade with each other rather than shop around when they like.
"Our suppliers". Simple fact, right? Does not impact upon their reputation,
but can show that you use well known and reliable suppliers to ensure
the best products or turn around time.
"Our friends". Could be used for anyone who supplied you with information,
feedback or any other help free of charge. This could show that you have
secured good information, advice or designs.
"In association with". Be careful, as it suggests that contact took place and
agreement was reached. However, if you see some design, business or
other ideas somewhere - contact them and ask for advice or whether they
believe it suits your application. If they reply, agreeing that it does, is that
not now "designed in association with..."?
Personally, I would ask them for permission to use the term with their name
on the specified product... but you're the original one-and-only "Grifter Man".


Regards,
Peter.