*Collaborative post.
When you run a small or medium sized business, you’ll do anything to spread the word about your company. As we all know, competing with bigger businesses in terms of visibility is basically impossible; Amazon, Nike, McDonalds, Starbucks – these huge corporates are everywhere.
One strategy many people turn to to promote their company is branded clothing and other merchandise. Not only does branded clothing help to make money from your brand – that is, if you can flog it – but it will also help the overall branding and message of your company sink into people’s minds. There are, however, common mistakes that small business owners make that can be both expensive and detrimental to the brand overall.
In this article, you’ll discover some of the dos and don’ts of investing in branded merchandise. Let’s get started!
The Dos of Investing in Branded Merchandise
Here are some of the things you SHOULD do if you are having branded merchandise made for your business.
1. DO find a merchandising company that produces high quality products.
If you want to sell merchandise that goes with your brand, do it right. Your customers will expect your merchandise to be of the same standard of work you deliver from your own company – so if the merchandise is poor quality, they will associate this with your brand. Find a merchandising company that makes things that last, so when someone buys a branded shirt or mug from you, they can count on quality.
2. DO organize a small merchandise release before investing huge amounts of money.
The thing about merchandise is that you never truly know how well it will sell. Your customers might absolutely love it, or they might be less interested than you expect! Because of this, you should always release your merchandise in stages. You can purchase the right equipment and supplies once you have identified your logistics and operations. In order to print detailed designs on printed t-shirts, direct-to-garment printing will be required; all you need is a high-quality printer, like the AA Prestige A3, along with AA Prestige A3 DTF inks and supplies for printing the fine details. When your company’s supplies meet quality standards, you can ensure that your business plan remains balanced. That way you can test the waters, and gauge interest before you invest further
The Don’ts of Investing in Branded Merchandise
1. DON’T tell other business owners what you’re doing.
Unfortunately, the business world is every man for himself. Although collaborations are more popular now than ever before, you should keep your cards close to your chest. That way you won’t wind up giving away the game or even potentially subjecting yourself to theft of intellectual property. Until the plans are finalised and all legal documents are signed, don’t tell other business owners what you’re up to.
2. DON’T use companies with unethical practices.
Your merchandise will be an extension of the values you hold dear as a company. If you use a merchandising company that creates their products using unfair labour conditions or pay, your customers can use this as a reason not to shop with you in the future. Make sure the merchandising business you use is legitimate.
Final Thoughts
Selling branded merchandise is a great idea to spread the word about who you are as a business. Make sure you follow these tips so you get it right first time around, and avoid making expensive mistakes.