One of the most important aspects of our subscription box is the products we put inside it. Whether you’re brand new to business or an experienced subscription box owner, finding the right products at the right prices can be challenging. Where do you start? What about when you begin to grow? How do you buy in bulk?
Before you start shopping, you will need your sales tax permit and resellers certificate. File for your sales tax permit first and then you’ll be able to get your resellers certificate.
Where you head next depends on where you are in your business. I found in my own business that buying product for my growing subscription box was different from buying product for my brick-and-mortar shop or the early days of my subscription box.
So how can you find the products you need?
1 - When you’re brand new to business:
Local Shops/Brands
Facebook Wholesale Groups
2 - Once you’ve established yourself and have some orders behind you:
Online Marketplaces such as Faire - You can shop thousands of vendors on one platform with low required minimum order quantities.
Direct vendor wholesale site - Go directly to the websites and look for a wholesale link. See if you can apply for a wholesale account with them.
Markets or Trade shows -These are scheduled events that happen across the country where hundreds or thousands of vendors come to connect with buyers. You can walk through all their booths, see their products in person, meet with vendors, and place orders.
I want you to go to a Market. They opened my mind to brands and vendors I never would have found or considered. I’ve met vendors at Market who have grown along with me and my business.
3 - You’re growing and it’s time to start making bigger bulk purchases:
When you grow past a certain point, it’s time to buy bulk and consider working with overseas manufacturers.
Global Marketplace - Alibaba, AliExpress, and IndiaMart are a great way to lower costs for items. I purchased small items first to get comfortable with product quality and shipping time. However, since the items are coming from overseas, you’ll need to give them more lead time when ordering.
White Label from an Existing Vendor - Vendors allow you to custom-make products under their supply chain and manufacturing process and put your label on it.
Sourcing Services - You can work with a sourcing agent who works with manufacturers on your behalf, getting products for you at really great prices. This sourcing agent handles all the communication and organization.
My advice for you:
Use several different vendors - don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
Build relationships - get representatives and keep in touch with them. Relationships are so important in our business.
Prices are negotiable - don’t be afraid to ask. Always ask for bulk pricing or discounts or free shipping or products. The bigger your business gets, the more buying power you have.
If you are working on a T-Shirt subscription, I’ve got a great FREE resource for you. Check out my favorite t-shirt brands and styles pdf. There are SO many choices when it comes to t-shirts - this resource will help you find the best ones for you and your customers!
Join me for this episode as I walk you through 8 ways to find products for your subscription box. Whether you’re just getting started or need more product options as you grow, get answers to your product sourcing questions!
Sarah’s Favorite T-Shirt Brands and Styles
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