Avoiding Pitfalls when finding a Merchandise Partner
James?? Smith MSc CMgr FCMI??
Sustainability Programme Manager at Babcock | Driving Meaningful Impact and Sustainable Change.
You have been tasked with finding a partner, you could be a Marketing representative for a small, medium or large organisation, charity or event organiser. You might also be the lucky guy/gal that has been "stitched up" with finding your team kit supplier. I have compiled a list below that might be useful.
- Know the Brand - you might be driven by price rather than quality, be sure to do your homework, find reviews, google the company and make sure that they have representation in your region. Don't be afraid to go even deeper and contact the suppliers of other customers. They will have first-hand knowledge of dealing with the supplier. If you have never heard of them or can't find any feedback online then you might be going down a dark path, be careful.
- Know your needs - Pricing is of course key but is it above your overall experience? Finding a cheap supplier might tick some boxes but it rarely ticks more than a few. Will your club mates, customers riders wear the jersey again or will it just sit in the bottom drawer never to see light again. Of course, you want them to be proud of the kit you organised. Cheap, will not always get you that customer satisfaction that you are looking for.
- Know your sizing - Most reputable brands will ensure you receive a sizing pack if required beforehand, be sure to get all of your riders etc to try on a size before placing your order.
- Know your design - Your design should reflect your company, club charitable ambitions, take your time here, check your Pantone colours, make sure you are approving the latest designs, and of course, always read the T&C's, For example, JPEG logos will pixelate on printing, never use JPEG!
- Know your delivery Date - Get yourself a delivery date, at Primal we offer a 100% on-time guaranteed delivery date or your money back. Don't accept anything less.
- Can you fulfil these orders - Do you have the capacity to send these orders out to customers, know your limitations, can your supplier do this for you and deal with all the issues arising from this?
7. Is your Merch page clear and easy to use? Contact us for a Whitelabel merch opportunity.
Hopefully, these tips will stop that embarrassing conversation with your boss or your club mates the next time your order arrives. Good luck!
You can contact me for your merchandising, club needs and get a free no-obligation custom quote by emailing [email protected] or calling the office 01752696290