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5 Steps to WOO a Retail Buyer!

WOOing a retail buyer is just like DATING.

Think back to the time when you were interested in someone or dating. Did you spend some quality time to get to know them and see what makes them tick? The same concept applies here when looking for the “right” retail partner. People get so hung up on the # of retail stores that they end up sending mass emails over the moon. This is not the right approach. Personalize your pitch and you will get a MUCH better response.

Here are 5 actionable steps for this week:

1. Make a list of 5-10 stores that fits your ideal store profile
2. Visit the stores in person. There is no excuse if the stores are in your area.
3. Go to their website. Check out their product assortment and the about us page.
4. Make a list of how your product can enhance their offerings, not duplicate what they already have. Space is always limited!
5. Create a personalized email and incorporate some of the points from #4. WOW them with an unexpected surprise (i.e. abundant samples, something you learned about the founder in the about us page..etc)

BONUS: Wait a few days… and follow up. {tip: Typically, Mondays and Fridays are usually not good days to speak to the buyer. Call on Tuesdays or Wednesdays to follow up.}

At Pink Olive, we get product submission emails every week. Designers who send us a personalized email, along with a retail packet, tend to get a faster response than those who do not. Just the other week, we got a generic mass email from a company who sold mens shoes. Clearly, they did not do their homework. When you hand-select the type of stores you want to be in, you also have a better chance for success (i.e. reorders). Take your time and research the companies before jumping right in. You certainly wouldn’t do that in a real relationship so why would you here? Make sure it’s the right fit for your brand too! :)

So take action now and report back your findings here.

Next week, we will uncover my secret in selling products on consignment that is WIN-WIN for everyone!

What's on your mind?