[matt_nash]

Hi Guys, I have a great product & awesome design of which has cost alot of $$ , and I want to know how I can get it into the big retail stores...

Look forward to some replies

Cheers

Matt

[capforge]

First, prove it can sell at the little independent retail stores, and or direct via the internet, catalog retailers, etc. Once you have a track record, the big retailers will be a lot more interested in hearing what you have to say.

[ron komorowski]

Originally Posted by capforge

First, prove it can sell at the little independent retail stores, and or direct via the internet, catalog retailers, etc. Once you have a track record, the big retailers will be a lot more interested in hearing what you have to say.

Good advice. The purpose of infomercials and QVC is to prove a sales history to the big retailers. You won't make much money with these first steps but you will get recognition.

I am selling direct right now as that is what I wish. Try the small retail stores in secondary markets (primary markets being the big name mass retailers)

On the other hand, I have the names and phone numbers of buyers from Home Depot, Ace Hardware, Sherwin Williams, Radio Shack, the info for Lowes and QVC for product submission. Just get on the phone and ask for the appropriate departments but talk with EXTREME confidence or they will "weed you out" Talk like you were supposed be calling in the first place like you are returning a call...just confidence. Good luck!

Ron
Inventor of Handi-Straps
Handi Straps Lifting System Home

[Mark D]

Advertisment is CRUCIAL. Your product may be great but if noone knows about it..... Create some buzz. If its clothing try to get prominent local figures to endorse it. Sports teams, local news reporters etc.

[biz_protege]

Try advertising it on internets, or putting it up on the ad section of the newspaper. You can also try making your own website, promote your product and maybe someone will get interested.

[jasaunders]

Originally Posted by capforge

First, prove it can sell at the little independent retail stores, and or direct via the internet, catalog retailers, etc. Once you have a track record, the big retailers will be a lot more interested in hearing what you have to say.

Yep. If you are looking to expand internationally at some point, you will need a track record as well, especially in conservative countries.

A couple weeks ago I met with the COO of the #1 direct marketing company in Japan. The company grew to where it is today because they only buy products that have already been successful in the U.S. and then put them in infomercials in Japan. They don't take risks with new products; there are thousands of people trying to get infomercials for their products aired, but only a select few are ever successful.

The way to get any customers is to start small are work your way up.