Getting product into large retail stores (Nordstrom, Anthropologie, etc)
I have a friend with a pretty successful product he makes himself that could fit in really well at places like Nordstrom and definitely would fit into a place like Anthro. He’s in some retail places but most are small boutique chains. Ive been thinking about how he could take his product and brand a lot further but I dont even know where to start to get seen by buyers at the big leagues
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What is the product?
I would ask what are sales currently like and what is max unit output over x time to understand scaling potential as well as what are margins and are they willing to forego some ownership to have a large retailer take on aspects of production at scale and distribution. I’m newish at Nordstrom but if you’re serious feel free to DM me and I’ll try and find out what the process is to have product eval with buyers etc.
I am a buyer and there are many ways to get products to a major retailer, but the first impression is extremely important. You’d be surprised how much buyers WANT to hear from small brands but are never contacted (not sure why). The best way to get noticed is for your friend to find a mutual connection or get an introduction through a personal source. If that isn’t possible, find out the buyers for the product via Linked In and cold email/ send them an impressive package to see the product in person. If they’re interested, you’ll hear from them and get a meeting. Some retailers also use a website called RangeMe to handle and manage new product submissions. Best of luck! :)
I'm not an expert, but I'm guessing that the first question most of those buyers would ask is, "Can you handle the volume? " You said your friend makes it himself, meaning by hand? Or he contracts the labor out?
By hand but is really good at ramping up staff to produce. I’m actually less worried about volume. I’m more worried about how to get in front of buyers and then get requirements for packaging. I know they have pretty onerous requirements and the long pole will be meeting packaging and shipping requirements.