1.
vendor, contractor, trader
A person or company engaged in a particular trade or business. Often refers to outside contractors, suppliers, or service providers rather than individual employees.
Usage
Refers to an outside business entity such as a contractor, supplier, or vendor. Often used when the specific company name is unimportant — the focus is on their role. Can have a slightly impersonal or transactional nuance. 悪徳業者 (unscrupulous dealer) is a common cautionary phrase.