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I need marketing advice!
Question:
> My name is Mark and I am importing replicas of ancient Egyptian artwork into > the USA. I am looking to get my products into stores, but I really have no > idea how to go about it. If you are familiar with this problem or its
Mark, walk like and Egyptian… talk like an Egyptian <g> Start by canvassing the independent stores in your local and surrounding areas. gift (including stationary) shops, home interior, furniture. Also visit chain shops; some may be franchise, other nationally owned. Of the nationally owned, you can get the info as to the buying offices. Best to go this route than just approach a buying office at first, unless you are a decent size operation or have a major account already. Consider doing trade shows… look to see which are visited by your target market and see which you can afford… Maybe start small. A good outlet, that is cheap and may move some goods to the consumer market, would be gift/arts/crafts – artisan fairs. Not only are they visited by consumers but also by retailers and buyers. The one’s I’ve visited in the past draw 1,000s. Also, approach local merchants, related, to see what it would take to put on a local "home show", maybe some kind of community or church benefit. Also, look to see if you can place your goods on consignment. Finally, you might be able to move some goods at a good, upscale swap meet or bizarre setting. I’m assuming here that you are a start up with little quantity rather than containers of replicas. John Gerits — G e r i t s – K n e e f e l & A s s o c i a t e s Strategic Management & Marketing Consulting Will you be around tomorrow?