Retail Distributors

In this short video training, we will explore five aspects that often go unmentioned when dealing with chains. If you have a product that you believe would be a fit, for retailers such as Walmart, Best Buy, Home Depot or Macys there are key factors to consider that can significantly impact your success. These insights will assist you in developing a distribution strategy and improving your chances of securing placement for your product in stores. Now lets delve into these five points.

1. Visit Their Stores

A vital but often overlooked step is physically visiting the stores of the retailers you wish to approach for sales. Whether its Walmart, Macys or any other chain taking the time to walk through their stores before contacting the buyers is essential. Why is this significant? Buyers will inquire about which store(s) you visited and what observations you made regarding their product assortment. By visiting these stores you gain market research insights and can provide specific feedback to the buyers. This action also showcases your dedication. Helps trust with the buyers. Visiting these stores demonstrates that you have invested effort in understanding their business and can offer input. It may seem like a step. It can make a substantial difference, in whether or not you secure an order.

2. Review Their Sites

Take a look, at the websites of the chains you’re targeting. Many people tend to overlook this step. Its actually quite important. These websites can provide insights into what these retailers really looking for in their vendors. Just do a Google search for “Macys vendor” or “Best Buy vendor”. You’ll find their dedicated vendor relation sites. These sites will give you all the information you need about the requirements and expectations that these retailers have. They might include details about insurance, software and other important elements for working with them. Taking some time to go through these websites will help you gain an understanding of what these retailers are seeking which will ultimately prepare you for any discussions or negotiations with them.

3. Pitch Your Product

The way you pitch your product is absolutely crucial when it comes to getting your product into chains. Keep in mind that there is no one size fits all approach to pitching because every product and situation is unique in its way. It’s vital to understand that retail buyers have criteria they’re looking for and if your pitch doesn’t address those needs or resonate with them they simply won’t be interested, in what you have to offer. Pitching your product effectively requires an understanding of their perspective. Customizing your pitch accordingly to match their interests.

Investing your time and effort in mastering the art of pitching can save you from months if not years, of frustration. Significantly enhance your chances of achieving success.

4. It’s Not About the Product

Merely having a product doesn’t guarantee acceptance by retail chains. While having a top notch product is crucial there are factors, at play. How you articulate yourself package your product. Align with the retailers needs all hold significance. At times even products that may not be the best in terms of quality or innovation manage to secure shelf space due to their presentation and packaging. It’s not always about possessing the finest product; it’s about comprehending the intricacies of the industry and effectively conveying the value of your offering to buyers. Undoubtedly storytelling and creating a captivating narrative, around your product should never be underestimated.

5. No One Will Take Charge for You

A misconception when approaching chains is relying solely on sales representatives or distributors to do all the legwork for you. While collaborating with reps and distributors can indeed prove beneficial they are not a solution. They seek products that have already established themselves in the market as entities.
Selling your product requires some work such, as creating a pitch attractive packaging and effective marketing materials. As a business owner it’s essential to take charge of your product and put in the effort to make it successful. No one will care about your product much as you do. While sales representatives and distributors can assist in expanding your business it’s crucial to establish a foundation and ensure that your product is selling well before entrusting it to them.

To sum up there are aspects often overlooked when approaching retail chains. It involves visiting their stores exploring their vendor websites presenting your pitch effectively understanding that success isn’t solely dependent on the product itself and taking responsibility for your business. By following these insights and dedicating the required effort you can increase the likelihood of success. Make an impact in the retail industry.

If you’re interested, in learning more about how to get your products into stores including pitching techniques or setting up your business for triumph—consider attending the Retail MBA Live event. This one day gathering covers all you need to know about entering chains while providing opportunities to connect with retailers.Make sure to check out retailmbalive.com for information and to join the event.

Keep in mind that success doesn’t come without effort. It’s your responsibility to take the steps and work hard to ensure the success of your product. Don’t rely on others to do it for you. Take control of your business. Make things happen.

I hope you found these insights valuable. Stay tuned for videos and content that will assist you in getting your products into stores. If you have any questions or need assistance don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to support your success, in the industry.