Do you have a product that is perfect to sell to Target stores?
(For those of you who prefer to read this content, transcription is included as well below!)
Are you looking to get your product on the shelves of Target and Target.com? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of selling to Target and Target.com, including what you need to know before you start, how to approach them, and what to expect if you’re successful.
Selling to Target
Target.com is one of the largest discount stores in the world. They have over 1850 stores and an average of 135 square feet per store. They sell a wide variety of products, including bedding, toys, food, accessories, and jewelry.
Why Sell to Target?
There are several reasons why you should consider selling to Target.com. First, they have a lot of space to test products, which makes it easier for them to accept new products. Second, they don’t just buy one product; they give you a section of the store to showcase your products. This means that you can sell multiple products to them. Finally, they usually start with a smaller test to make sure the product converts in their stores before buying larger quantities.
How to Sell to Target
Selling to Target.com can be tricky. They have cut out a lot of the communication that other retailers have available to suppliers. However, there are still ways to reach out to them. You can send them an email or call their voicemail. You can also pitch your product to them through their vendor websites.
If you’re successful in selling to Target.com, you can expect them to test your product in their top-selling stores. They may not buy massive quantities on day one, but they will eventually buy larger quantities from you once they know that the product converts.
Getting Started with Selling to Target and Target.com
Selling to Target.com can be a great opportunity for your business. If you want to learn more about how to approach, pitch, and sell to Target.com and other similar retailers, check out RetailMBA.com. They have systems and processes in place to help you expedite the process of getting your products into stores.
Retail MBA Team
Transcript For Video Listed Here..
What you need to know as a Target vendor
Target Stores Vendor – Let’s talk about selling your product to Target stores. Target is one of the most massive discount stores on the planet. They have over 1,850 stores they’re responsible for currently. And their stores are huge. They have over 135 square feet per store on average, sometimes larger if they have Super Targets and so forth.
Why you should be selling to Target
And basically, the reason why people love working with Target is because they buy so many different products, right? And they sell so many different types of products. They sell bedding, they sell toys, they sell food in some of the stores, they sell everything from accessories and jewelry, you name it, they sell that product. So one of the things that I can tell you about Target and becoming a vendor with them is that, because they have a large space and they have a lot of room to put products in, that means they actually have the ability to test a lot more products because of the fact that they have these large spaces.
What you can sell to Target
When you’re dealing with retailers like GNC, they have very, very small stores. So their stores are limited. So they can’t put that many products in there. And so, they’re really, really difficult to get your product in there and so forth, because someone really has to go to bring another product in and so forth. But with Target they have larger stores, they have more opportunities, and they’re varietal in the types of products that they have. So one reason you want to sell to them and one thing to think about is the fact that, even if you’re selling a consumer electronics product, definitely want to consider a retailer like Target because they have room for growth and expansion and so forth.
What you need to know to become a Target vendor
Another thing I can say about Target is that they are kind of finicky in that they basically just changed their way of working. Before, you actually had a phone number that you could call a buyer and so forth, and it was not that difficult to reach out to them. Most other retailers, if you wanted to reach out to them, one way you can do it is you could send them an email or you can call them and so forth and say very specific things and get them interested in your product. But Target, they actually shut it down so you can’t call them anymore. And so, they literally just send you to some voicemail.
It’s a little tricky to become a Target vendor
And they probably did that on purpose. They’re probably getting inundated with lots of people reaching out to them and so forth. It doesn’t mean that you can’t get into that stores, it just means it’s very unique to Target in that they’re not actually being easily presentable and so forth to suppliers.
If you become a Target vendor it is a amazing opportunity for your business
That does not mean that I think you should go and pitch your product to them through their vendor websites. I have other ways of teaching how to get into stores and so forth. But please note, Target’s a little bit trickier to sell to, only because they cut out a lot of the communication that other retailers have available to you.
Now, one good thing about Target, there’s very many things, is that they don’t usually typically just buy one product. They give you a little section of the store. It’s not for all product types and categories, but a lot of times, like say you want to sell jewelry to them, they wouldn’t just buy a few pieces from you. They typically give you a nice little section. And so, they put that product into a store.\
Once you become a Target vendor they will buy more types of products from you
So the cool thing about Target is that they ultimately enable you to sell several products to them. And if you can think about the math, if they buy 10, 20, 30 pieces of your product per store, that’s a pretty small amount, but just imagine they just buy that much and they have 1,850 stores currently, that’s tremendous buying power. So that’s really, really exciting for you.
Target will test your products in their top selling stores
If you do ever get a deal with Target, please note that they’ll probably test your product in their top selling stores. And so, if you do actually work with them, just note that they’ll always test your product out. They’re not going to buy massive, massive products on day one, but they will eventually buy larger quantities from you once they know that product converts and so forth.
How to sell to Target’s 1,850+ stores
So all retailers basically will usually start with a smaller test to make sure the product converts in their smaller stores, and then they ultimately move into getting reorders from you, and that’s where the big monies are at. And that’s when they buy the larger quantity. So they usually don’t typically buy products for all 1,800 stores on day one. But it depends on the product and how much they believe it and so forth. But most of the time, they’ll start a little bit smaller. So you don’t need to panic there.
Learn how to approach, pitch, & sell to Target Stores
Anyways, those are some reasons and things to think about selling to Target stores. It’s a tremendous opportunity for you and your business. If you want to learn exactly how to approach, pitch, and sell to Target and any other chain store retailer similar to them, take a look at our website, retailmba.com, that’s retailmba.com.
We actually have systems and processes in place that we’ve put together in order to help people expedite the process of getting their products into stores. We have free content. We have training systems. We have live events. We have retail matchmaking services. Although, we try and educate you first on the preparation process of selling to retailers like Target, because it could be so invaluable to your success to know what you’re doing before you even start working with reps and distributors and so forth, because you want to set yourself up for success for the long run.
Learn the strategies on how to sell to Target local stores
So we find that training and educating you first and then teaching you the strategies to get into retailers in the shortest period of time is the way that people have made many, many millions of dollars with our systems and programs.
So if you want to learn more, Click Here to Explore Our Automation Tool to Help You Get into Target Stores in a Fraction of the Time! No Experience Required! Click HERE to Learn More! https://www.retailmbabrands.com/target-stores. One Target Stores Buyer can purchase Millions of Dollars worth of Merchandise! Otherwise we hope you enjoyed this video training series.
Sign up to any of our FREE programs and videos listed on RetailMBA.com to learn more!
Frequently Asked Questions - Target Stores Vendor
- How do I get my products into Target stores?
To get your products into Target stores, you will need to apply to become a Target vendor. You can do this by visiting Target’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 Target 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 Target 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 Target 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 Target 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 Target buyers?
There are a few ways you can contact Target buyers:
- Use the “Contact Us” form on Target’s website: You can visit Target’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 best buyers 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 Target 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: Target 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 Target 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 Target 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 Target’s vendor requirements?
Target 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: Target 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: Target 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: Target 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 Target buyers – they buy in volume!
- Competitive pricing: Target 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: Target 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 Target 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 Target and grow your business.
- How do I prepare a Target product submission?
To prepare a Target 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 target 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 Target 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 Target’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 Target 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, target 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 Target’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 Target 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 Target’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 Target’s private label requirements?
To prepare a Target 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 target 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 Target 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 Target’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 Target 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, target 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 Target’s guidelines.
- 6. Branding and packaging: Target’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 Target 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 Target source products?
Target 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, Target uses a variety of methods, including:
- Online vendor application: Target 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 Target 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: Target buyers often attend trade shows and other industry events to discover new products and meet with potential vendors.
- Direct contact: Target 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: Target may also work directly with manufacturers to develop private label products or to secure exclusive distribution rights for certain products.
Overall, Target 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 Target’s return policy for vendors?
Target’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 Target 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 Target 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, Target 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 Target’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 Target.
We explain how to avoid chargebacks and fees with Target! All listed on our training and coaching systems listed on RetailMBA.com.
- How do I become a Target preferred vendor?
To become a Target 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 Target 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 Target 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 Target 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 Target 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 Target 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!
