Do you have a product perfect for Sephora Stores?
If so, you will love this new training on How to Sell to Sephora Today and Be a Sephora Vendor. No sales experience or buyer relationships required!
Karen Waksman, Founder of Retail MBA, explains top things to consider when selling to Sephora. Just click on the video to watch!
The transcript for this video is listed below.
To your success,
Retail MBA
How to Sell to Sephora - Transcript
Hey everyone, this is Karen Waksman, founder of Retail M B A, and today we’re going to be talking about Sephora stores and how to become a vendor for them. So if you have a great consumer product that you think should be in Sephora stores, it’s a little training. We’ll give you some tips and strategies on how to get started today.
So a little background about me. I’ve personally sold millions of consumer products to the world’s largest retailers as a manufacturers rep, and over the last 12 years, I’ve taught close to a hundred thousand people on the subject of selling retailers. And this little training will give you some ideas on things that we teach and how we support people.
Also, if you like this information, please subscribe, join us. We’re always creating new. . Anyways, with that said, let’s talk about Sephora stores. So let’s, just say that Sephora is most cosmetics brands, dream retailer, right? So if you have a hair product that you’re trying to sell or a cosmetic product, it’s probably your top, top dream retailer.
It’s very, common that people love that retailer. If you have makeup or whatever it is that you’re trying to sell. The tricky part about selling to se Oh, and fragrance. The tricky part about selling to Sephora is that they have a lot of major brands, and so the brands that they do put in have a ton of products, right?
So if you ever go to their stores usually if it’s say makeup, they have a whole set of differing products that they sell for that particular brand. The reason I mention that is because if you have a one-off Very, difficult for you to sell to them. You can private label your product and sell to Sephora.
Have you noticed on their little, in their little area, they have a ton of products that are like generic brands. It doesn’t have a name on them. Those are what we call private label. A lot of the times where Sephora buys from a company like you and then has. Place your product in their packaging.
So brushes and all sorts of things usually is an option for you. So again, if you are trying to sell your brand to them, meaning your name’s on the box, you’re going to have to remember that. They will probably be interested in,
oh man.
They will probably be interested in you having a whole selection of product, or if you want to private label your product. A lot of times that is possible for you. You’re just going to have to remember that. It may not be in your brand, in your packaging and so forth. So that’s something to think about Also.
They usually know every single product on the planet in regards to cosmetics or whatever. And so it is a very complicated retailer to sell into, not because you can’t get your product in there, it’s because they have seen everything. And when a retailer is very niche and they’ve done pretty well from themselves, they can reject you all day long every single day.
My recommendation is if you go after Sephora, Go for it. If they say no to you, please don’t take it personally. It, just, you pick the, one of the harder retailers to go after only because everybody, all of your competitors want to sell to them. And that’s something to think about. However, my recommendation, when it’s a very niche retailer like that, I would say go to other retailers that.
Cosmetics or whatever it is that you’re trying to sell and try to sell to them first. Once you get proof of sales, then you go to a retailer like Sephora, they’re much more inclined to buy because you have proof of sales, proof of purchase. because Sephora is all about making money. And unfortunately when they have a really rich niche retailer, it does.
Make it more difficult for them to say yes to you again, because everybody’s calling them. So it doesn’t mean that they don’t have a bunch of new products that they’re willing to test and so forth, but just don’t feel bad if you do get rejected. And the recommendation is even go after I don’t know, retailers that you can go after.
Ulta, obviously you can go after Macy’s, all these different retailers, department stores, discount department stores all of ’em sell cosmetics or whatever it is that you’re selling and you could reach out to them and then come back to Sephora. Once you have proof of sales, it’s a much easier approach than just getting rejected, crying, feeling bad about.
And then not getting anywhere with that retailer. Cause you think they don’t like you. Actually, buyers change jobs all of the time with retailers very frequently. Six months to a year they change positions. And so the buyer who’s buying for your product may not be there anymore by the time you go back to Sephora.
So don’t worry about it. Even if they reject you, there’s still an opportunity for you to sell to them. So those are some things to think about. Basically, it’s a niche retailer. A lot of people are going after them. You either need to set up an entire. Product category, product line. Really have proof of a brand.
They do like diversity. If you are a diverse supplier, meaning you’re a women owned business, minority owned business, get certified, that could help you get in the door faster. They’re always looking for new brands that hit that diversity market. And they love certifications. Otherwise definitely explore other retailers and then come back to Sephora if they ever reject you.
If you want to learn how to actually reach out to Sephora, what words to say, how to pitch them, what to say to them to get them to buy, even if you’ve never sold anything in your life, please take a look at the links below. That’s all we do. We help people get their products into chain stores like Sephora.
This is Karen Wagman Retail mba. I hope it helped. And be on the lookout for the next video we create. Please comment like, Subscribe join us. We are always on the lookout for new people to support. Thanks so much.
Frequently Asked Questions on Selling to Sephora Stores!
- How do I get my products into Sephora stores?
To get your products into Sephora stores, you will need to apply to become a Sephora vendor. You can do this by visiting Sephora’s website and completing an online vendor application. Or you can follow our Retail MBA (https://www.retailmba.com) Training System where we explain how the sales professionals actually sell into these types of retailers!
If you went the traditional route, the application process typically involves submitting a product sample and accompanying product information sheet (PIS), which should include details on your product, pricing and availability information, and any other relevant information when they ask!
Once you have submitted your application, a Sephora buyer will review your submission and determine if your products are a good fit for the company. If your application is approved, you will be invited to become a Sephora vendor and will be given access to the company’s systems and processes. Unfortunately, if you actually submit your product on their website, they don’t always respond. Or review your product appropriately as they ask you very generic questions about your brand and you don’t always get your products reviewed correctly. We try to rectify this through our Retail MBA Training System as we have time-tested proven methods to getting into these types of chain stores! No experience required!
To increase your chances of success, it is important to thoroughly research the market and identify a product that meets a specific need or demand. It is also important to demonstrate that you are able to produce high-quality products that offer value to customers and that you have a reliable supply chain.
Overall, getting your products into Sephora stores requires a strong commitment to quality and customer service, as well as the ability to meet the company’s strict vendor requirements. With hard work and dedication, it is possible to build a successful partnership with Sephora and grow your business. Plus you can make millions of dollars with one chain store order. We are here to help as a Retail consultancy if you need help with this!
- How do I contact Sephora buyers?
There are a few ways you can contact Sephora buyers:
- Use the “Contact Us” form on Sephora’s website: You can visit Sephora’s website and use the “Contact Us” form to send a message to the appropriate department. This is a good option if you are not sure which department or buyer to contact. This is also presented in the vendor section of their website. We highly recommend ignoring this route as buyers tend to overlook amazing products on their website through their vendor portal. Which is why the Founder of Retail MBA is the one who created our powerful Retail MBA Training System which unlocks how to approach, pitch and find the Sephoraers for you to sell to. You can take a look at what we are up to at https://www.retailmba.com.
- Do NOT Reach out through LinkedIn: Many Sephora buyers have LinkedIn profiles, which you can use to connect with them directly. You can search for buyers by name or job title and send them a message through LinkedIn but do not reach out to them this way. Many people suggest this. Buyers despise it when you reach out to them in disrespectful ways. Linkedin is where they post their resumes. Not reviewing products!
- Attend industry trade shows and networking events: Sephora buyers often attend industry trade shows and other events, where you can meet them in person and pitch your product. There are trade shows for every product category. For instance, housewares products can attend the International Housewares Show! Our Founder, Karen Waksman, has spoken at most of the top trade shows on how to sell to retail chains. These are great shows! Please check out our training on how to utilize trade shows appropriately. We explain what NOT to do when going to trade shows in our Retail MBA Training and Coaching Systems.
- Contact the buyer directly: If you know the name and contact information for a specific Sephora buyer, you can try reaching out to them directly. You can do this by emailing or calling them, but never through sending them a direct message on LinkedIn. If you go this route, do not annoy buyers. Find out what words to use when contacting buyers to get them to actually review your products! Our systems all teach how to do this in a way that buyers love! We’ve taught well over 100,000 product companies how to pitch buyers with our systems listed on RetailMBA.com.
It is important to be respectful and professional when contacting Sephora buyers, and to make sure you have a clear and compelling pitch for your product. It is also a good idea to do your research and tailor your pitch to the specific interests and needs of the buyer you are contacting.
- What are Sephora’s vendor requirements?
Sephora has a number of vendor requirements that must be met in order to do business with the company. These requirements can vary depending on the type of products you are selling and the market in which you operate. Some of the key requirements include:
- High-quality products: Sephora is committed to offering its customers high-quality products at affordable prices. As a vendor, you will need to demonstrate that you are able to produce products that meet the company’s standards for quality.
- Safety and compliance: Sephora has strict requirements for the safety and compliance of the products it sells. This includes requirements for materials, labeling, packaging, and other aspects of product design.
- Reliable supply chain: Sephora relies on a global network of suppliers to meet the needs of its customers. As a vendor, you will need to demonstrate that you have a reliable supply chain that is able to meet the company’s demand for products. Handmade goods would not make sense to sell to Sephora buyers – they buy in volume!
- Competitive pricing: Sephora is known for offering its customers epic prices, and as a vendor, you will need to be able to offer competitive pricing in order to do business with the company.
- Strong customer service: Sephora values strong customer service and expects its vendors to provide timely and accurate responses to customer inquiries and complaints.
- There is a list of requirements they require listed on their vendor portal. Check out their vendor website and you will find out insurance requirements and more!
Overall, becoming a Sephora vendor requires a strong commitment to quality and customer service, as well as the ability to meet the company’s strict vendor requirements. With hard work and dedication, it is possible to build a successful partnership with Sephora and grow your business.
- How do I prepare a Sephora product submission?
To prepare a Sephora product submission, you will need to create a product sample and accompanying product information sheet. The product sample should be a physical representation of your product, while the product sell sheet should include detailed information on your product, including its features, benefits, and Sephora market. Do not randomly send samples to them. Buyers need to request these samples! Otherwise you will usually never get a review process from buyers.
Here are some steps you can follow to prepare a Sephora product submission:
- Research the market: Before you start preparing your product submission, it is important to research the market to ensure that your product meets a specific need or demand. You should also research Sephora’s product offerings and make sure your product is a good fit for the company.
- Create a product sample: Your product sample should be a physical representation of your product that demonstrates its features and benefits. You should consider creating prototypes or samples in multiple sizes, colors, or variations to give Sephora buyers a better understanding of your product.
- Create a product information sheet (PIS): Your PIS should include detailed information on your product, including its features, benefits, Sephora market, pricing, and availability. You should also include any relevant images or graphics that will help buyers to understand your product. We explain EXACTLY how to create the best sell sheets for buyers in our powerful Retail MBA Training System listed on RetailMBA.com.
- Review and edit your submission: Once you have created your product sample and sell sheet, it is important to review and edit your submission to ensure that it is accurate and complete. You should also double-check that you have included all relevant information and that your submission meets Sephora’s guidelines.
- We teach you exactly what words to use and how to get buyers to buy in a fraction of the time and cost. Be sure to check out our free webinars listed on RetailMBA.com. We explain all of this in detail!
Overall, preparing a Sephora product submission requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following these steps and ensuring that your submission is accurate and complete, you can increase your chances of success and get your products on Sephora’s shelves. These are just a few random examples of how to prepare a product submission. Our core Retail MBA Training System takes 10 hours to explain what actually will happen to you if you sell to a retail chain. Why? One chain store order can mean 10’s of millions of dollars to your bottom line. The more you know, the better you will succeed.
- What are Sephora’s private label requirements?
To prepare a Sephora product submission, you will need to create a product sample and accompanying product information sheet. The product sample should be a physical representation of your product, while the sell sheet should include detailed information on your product, including its features, benefits, and Sephora market. Again, our Core Retail MBA Training System explains how to create a powerful sell sheet and how to contact the private label buyer and submit your product as would the sales professionals!
Here are some first steps you can follow to prepare a Sephora product submission:
- Research the market: Before you start preparing your product submission, it is important to research the market to ensure that your product meets a specific need or demand. You should also research Sephora’s product offerings and make sure your product is a good fit for the company.
- Create a product sample: Your product sample should be a physical representation of your product that demonstrates its features and benefits. You should consider creating prototypes or samples in multiple sizes, colors, or variations to give Sephora buyers a better understanding of your product.
- Create a product information sheet: Your sell sheet should include detailed information on your product, including its features, benefits, Sephora market, pricing, and availability. You should also include any relevant images or graphics that will help buyers to understand your product.
- Review and edit your submission: Once you have created your product sample and sell sheet, it is important to review and edit your submission to ensure that it is accurate and complete. You should also double-check that you have included all relevant information and that your submission meets Sephora’s guidelines.
- 6. Branding and packaging: Sephora’s private label products must be clearly branded and properly packaged to ensure that they stand out on the shelf and are easy for customers to identify.
Overall, preparing a Sephora product submission requires careful planning and attention to detail. Why? One order can make you millions of dollars!
When working with the private label buyer, they will instruct you on how to package using their branding! All of this is explained in our training systems listed on RetailMBA.com
- How does Sephora source products?
Sephora sources products from a wide range of vendors, both domestic and international. The company has a team of buyers and sourcing professionals who are responsible for identifying and evaluating potential vendors and products.
To source products, Sephora uses a variety of methods, including:
- Online vendor application: Sephora has an online vendor application process that allows potential vendors to submit product samples and information sheets for review. This is a good option for small and medium-sized businesses that are interested in selling their products in Sephora stores.We suggest not going through this route as you could get lost in the process. Find out more by checking out one of our Retail MBA Training systems listed on RetailMBA.com.
- Trade shows and industry events: Sephora buyers often attend trade shows and other industry events to discover new products and meet with potential vendors.
- Direct contact: Sephora buyers may also reach out to potential vendors directly, either through online channels or by attending industry events and networking with other professionals.
- Partnering with manufacturers: Sephora may also work directly with manufacturers to develop private label products or to secure exclusive distribution rights for certain products.
Overall, Sephora uses a variety of methods to source products, including online applications, trade shows, direct contact, and partnerships with manufacturers. The company is always looking for high-quality products that offer value to customers and that meet the company’s strict vendor requirements.
- What is Sephora’s return policy for vendors?
Sephora’s return policy for vendors varies depending on the product and the circumstances of the return. In general, the company has a “no return” policy for many types of products, but may make exceptions in cases where there are quality issues or other problems with the product.
If a customer returns a product to Sephora that was manufactured or supplied by a vendor, the vendor may be responsible for accepting the return and providing a refund or replacement product. In these cases, the vendor should work with Sephora to resolve the issue and ensure that the customer is satisfied.
If a vendor is unable to accept a return or provide a refund or replacement product, Sephora may choose to dispose of the product or return it to the vendor at the vendor’s expense.
Overall, it is important for vendors to have a clear understanding of Sephora’s return policy and to work closely with the company to resolve any issues that may arise. By providing high-quality products and excellent customer service, vendors can minimize the risk of returns and build strong, long-lasting partnerships with Sephora.
We explain how to avoid chargebacks and fees with Sephora! All listed on our training and coaching systems listed on RetailMBA.com.
- How do I become a Sephora preferred vendor?
To become a Sephora preferred vendor, you will need to meet the company’s vendor requirements and demonstrate that you are able to produce high-quality products that offer value to customers. You will also need to have a reliable supply chain and be able to offer competitive pricing.
To apply to become a Sephora vendor, you can visit the company’s website and complete an online vendor application. The application process typically involves submitting a product sample and accompanying product information sheet, which should include details on your product, pricing and availability information, and any other relevant information. Or follow our amazing systems that explain what to do!
Once you have submitted your application, a Sephora buyer will review your submission and determine if your products are a good fit for the company. If your application is approved, you will be invited to become a Sephora vendor and will be given access to the company’s systems and processes.
To become a preferred vendor, you will need to consistently meet the company’s expectations and demonstrate a track record of producing high-quality products. This may involve meeting certain performance metrics, such as on-time delivery, order accuracy, and customer satisfaction.
Overall, becoming a Sephora preferred vendor requires a strong commitment to quality and customer service, as well as the ability to meet the company’s strict vendor requirements. With hard work and dedication, it is possible to build a successful partnership with Sephora and grow your business.
Step-by-step training on how to sell to major retailers
We explain exactly how to do that and how to get started today. I’ve taught tens of thousands of companies on how to get your products to the stores. And so we’re here to support you. Or please subscribe to our Youtube channel and or be on the lookout for additional training that we create.
We are here to expedite the process of making money with your physical products and that’s what we’re all about. Take a look at our advanced training, live events, certification programs and so much more.
In this training, I will discuss some of the things to think about when approaching a retailer to sell your products and become a vendor. Hope it helps! 🙂
Karen Waksman,
Retail MBA
Questions? Contact Us!
1-855-Retail-2 (Call or Text)
Email: info@retailmba.com
Retail MBA provides a step-by-step formula on How to Sell to Major Retailers, Online Retailers, Smaller Retailers, Catalogs and More. No Experience Required! These solutions continue to convert for clients year-over-year! These are Time-Tested and Proven Strategies that we utilize ourselves when going after stores! Everything we teach, we test. Want access to these formulas? ANY one of our programs and coaching systems gives you access to them now. With that said…
Here are 4 Easy Ways to Work with Us:
1) Free Training – If You Would Like to Join Our Next FREE Webinar Training Called “Retail Chain Store Secrets – How to Sell to Major Retail Chains. No Experience Required” Then Sign Up NOW To Learn All About Selling into Retail Chains By Clicking Here! https://www.retailmba.com
2) Masterclass Intensives – Want to Join our Next 4 Week Elite Retail MBA Masterclass Intensive? These Intensives Are EPIC for people who Love Fast Paced Learning – Homework, Retail Coaching, Developing Your Strategy, Buyers Contacts and More! These Events Are Held Every Quarter. Join us by Clicking Here: https://www.retailmbabrands.com/masterclass
3) Done-for-You Program – If You Want Karen Waksman and Her Team to Reach Out to Your Top Dream Retail Chains On Your Behalf – And You Have a Retail-Ready Product, Check Out our Epic Done-For-You Service by Clicking Here: https://www.retailmbabrands.com/done
4) In Person Events – If You Want to Learn LIVE and Meet Karen Waksman in Person at Our Next Retail Sellers LIVE Event with Other Like-Minded Individuals in Beautiful San Diego, CA!
We Would LOVE to Have You Join Us by Clicking Here: https://www.americasnextretailproduct.com
Thanks so much.
And…if you like this training, you will love these new short training sessions as well! Click on the links provided to watch and grow your consumer product business TODAY!
Step-by-step training on how to sell to major retailers
We explain exactly how to do that and how to get started today. I’ve taught tens of thousands of companies on how to get your products to the stores. And so we’re here to support you. Or please subscribe to our Youtube channel and or be on the lookout for additional training that we create.
We are here to expedite the process of making money with your physical products and that’s what we’re all about. Take a look at our advanced training, live events, certification programs and so much more.
In this training, I will discuss some of the things to think about when approaching a retailer to sell your products and become a vendor. Hope it helps! 🙂
Karen Waksman,
Retail MBA
Questions? Contact Us!
1-855-Retail-2 (Call or Text)
Email: info@retailmba.com
Retail MBA provides a step-by-step formula on How to Sell to Major Retailers, Online Retailers, Smaller Retailers, Catalogs and More. No Experience Required! These solutions continue to convert for clients year-over-year! These are Time-Tested and Proven Strategies that we utilize ourselves when going after stores! Everything we teach, we test. Want access to these formulas? ANY one of our programs and coaching systems gives you access to them now. With that said…
Here are 4 Easy Ways to Work with Us:
1) Free Training – If You Would Like to Join Our Next FREE Webinar Training Called “Retail Chain Store Secrets – How to Sell to Major Retail Chains. No Experience Required” Then Sign Up NOW To Learn All About Selling into Retail Chains By Clicking Here! https://www.retailmba.com
2) Masterclass Intensives – Want to Join our Next 4 Week Elite Retail MBA Masterclass Intensive? These Intensives Are EPIC for people who Love Fast Paced Learning – Homework, Retail Coaching, Developing Your Strategy, Buyers Contacts and More! These Events Are Held Every Quarter. Join us by Clicking Here: https://www.retailmbabrands.com/masterclass
3) Done-for-You Program – If You Want Karen Waksman and Her Team to Reach Out to Your Top Dream Retail Chains On Your Behalf – And You Have a Retail-Ready Product, Check Out our Epic Done-For-You Service by Clicking Here: https://www.retailmbabrands.com/done
4) In Person Events – If You Want to Learn LIVE and Meet Karen Waksman in Person at Our Next Retail Sellers LIVE Event with Other Like-Minded Individuals in Beautiful San Diego, CA!
We Would LOVE to Have You Join Us by Clicking Here: https://www.americasnextretailproduct.com
Thanks so much.
And…if you like this training, you will love these new short training sessions as well! Click on the links provided to watch and grow your consumer product business TODAY!
