The four best-kept secrets for choosing a distributor
Updated June 28, 2019: Staying on the cutting edge takes valuable time and resources spent on in-depth research, plus a keen insight about which innovative products will fly or flop. As a retailer, staying in tune with changing technology and consumer trends can be one of the most enjoyable aspects of running your business—and also one of the most daunting. You literally depend on translating that information into accurate predictions for your market, your store and your customers. How you answer the question, “How do I find wholesale suppliers?” can make or break your business.
Steve Jobs is quoted as saying,
“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”
Innovation is one of the most important factors in the success of a business. If your business can cultivate the reputation of always having the coolest, newest gear, you’ll generate the attention of those most sought-after consumers: the trendsetters. And being the purchase destination for trendsetters generates volumes in terms of word-of-mouth advertising and future customers.
How do I find wholesale suppliers?—Secrets revealed!
Best-kept secret #1: Find one that stays up to date on tech and trends
You need to be looking for a wholesale supplier who constantly takes the pulse of the industry and looks ahead. You need one that is comfortable offering a broad range of products and a wide variety of retail channel opportunities. And you need one who understands the changing face of retail with their extensive behind-the-scenes requirements and has made substantial investments to stay ahead of the game—one like Petra.
How do I find wholesale suppliers? Best-kept secret #2: Find one who is willing to be your partner
A good distributor works diligently to grow its relationships with its retailers and should be viewed much more as a partner than as simply another vendor. Distributors with your best interest in mind have entire teams of specialists who stay on top of technology and trends, communicate with manufacturers about new products and research new technology daily. They consider all the variables of new products and vet manufacturers’ viability before they ever bring them on.
One of the greatest contributions distributors make to the industry is allowing lesser-known brands with great new products access to large dealer bases and their marketing muscle. By partnering with the right distributor like Petra, you can stay solidly on the cutting edge without having to do any of the legwork.
Best-kept secret #3: Find one who understands you and treats you with respect—regardless business size
Some distributors require minimum quantities or X number of dollars per order. Distributors like Petra don’t require minimums. This makes it easy for you to test the waters on a new line, as well as maintain the reputation of always having the latest and greatest gadgets. You can bring in “one to show and one to go” to evaluate your customers’ reactions. You may also capture extra visits from trendsetters who don’t want to miss out on some great new item that might only be on your shelf for a short time.
You also don’t want a distributor that’s focused purely on sell-sell-sell. Distributors like Petra want to know you as a person as well as a company. Plus, as a way to be a valuable resource for your entire company, you want a distributor like Petra who can provide additional online resources for your staff—like blogs and manufacturer-provided videos.
How do I find wholesale suppliers? Best-kept secret #4: Choose Petra!
Petra provides you with current, relevant industry information and insights toward trending innovation. We are dedicated to our partnerships. And whether your business is large or small, we always have your back.
Dirk Beveridge, president of 4th Generation Systems, a sales, marketing, and leadership development firm, defines “innovation” as:
“…leading customers to a better future for which they are capable and willing to reward you.”
Choose a distributor with a focus on innovation. With Petra, we’ll lead you to your “better future,” so you can lead your customers to theirs. Choosing the right distributor for your business will save you time, money and guesswork.
The answer to the question “How do I find wholesale suppliers?” doesn’t have to be difficult. Contact Petra to see how we stand out from the crowd! Sign up online for a new account or call our office today at 800-443-6975.
The Right Distributor Changes Everything.™