Introduce competition as a tactic in your negotiations with Dun & Bradstreet. Let them know that you are looking at other providers and mention specific quotes or offerings you have received. This tactic often leads to better pricing and terms, as suppliers are motivated to keep your business when they know you're actively considering other options.
Anchor your negotiation by requesting the removal of any annual uplift in pricing. Stress that your budgeting for the upcoming year does not align with an expected uplift, and that you're looking to stabilize costs moving forward. This strategy often works, especially if you can substantiate your claims regarding financial constraints.
Discuss overage fees with Dun & Bradstreet and negotiate to have them waived, particularly if you anticipate growth in your usage. Emphasize that your internal policies require predictable budgeting and that overage fees could hinder that. Position this as a basic requirement for continuing your partnership.
Negotiate to have any auto-renewal clauses removed from the contract. Express that your finance and legal teams require that you have the option to review contracts before they renew. This is a common requirement and can help reinforce your negotiating leverage in discussions.
Offer to act as a reference or participate in a case study for Dun & Bradstreet's marketing materials. This can be leveraged as a 'give' in negotiations, allowing you to ask for a discount or more favorable terms in your contract in exchange for your participation. Make it clear that your willingness to participate depends on achieving satisfactory pricing.