Wholesale vs. Retail: A Maker’s Guide to Both
As a local maker in the Upper Cumberland, you know that creating beautiful, handcrafted products takes time, skill, and passion. But what happens when makers are ready to grow their business and reach more customers? That’s where the worlds of wholesale and retail come in.
If you’ve been wondering about the difference between selling your products wholesale or retail, you’re not alone! Each model offers unique opportunities and challenges, and deciding which path to take depends on your business goals. Let’s break down the essentials of both and see how they can help you grow your brand.
What’s the Difference Between Wholesale and Retail?
Retail is when you sell your products directly to consumers, usually through your own store, website, or markets. In this model, you control everything from pricing to marketing. You’re building direct relationships with your customers, which can be incredibly rewarding as you get to share your story and brand with each sale.
On the other hand, Wholesale is when you sell your products in bulk to retailers, like boutique stores, online shops, or other businesses. These buyers then sell your products to the end consumer. While wholesale orders typically come with lower prices per unit, they can lead to larger, more consistent orders—giving you access to a bigger audience and more stability.
Why Consider Wholesale for Your Products?
As a local maker, wholesale can be a game-changer for your business. Here’s why:
- Bigger Reach – When your products are in retail stores, they’re exposed to a much larger audience. Buyers walk into these stores, discover your creations, and bring them into their homes. You get the benefit of not just one customer, but the store’s entire customer base.
- Larger Orders – Retailers tend to place larger orders compared to individual customers. This can lead to a more predictable cash flow and helps you plan your production and inventory more effectively.
- Focus on Crafting – Once you’ve established relationships with retailers, the wholesale model allows you to focus more on making and less on constantly marketing your products to individual buyers.
However, it’s important to note that selling wholesale requires a different approach than retail. You’ll need to ensure your pricing works for both you and your retailers, present your products in a professional way, and develop strong relationships with store owners.
Ready to Take the Leap into Wholesale?
At The Biz Foundry, we understand the challenges makers face when moving into wholesale. That’s why we’re excited to host the Made Here Wholesale Market on February 24, 2025, from 6-7:30 PM! This exclusive event will give you the opportunity to meet boutique buyers and get your products in front of decision-makers who are actively seeking high-quality, locally made goods.
But, there’s one important step before you can join the market: you need to attend our Wholesale Workshop on January 6, 2025, at 6 PM. This workshop will give you everything you need to confidently approach wholesale buyers and turn your handmade products into wholesale-ready items.
Here’s what you can expect from the workshop:
- Learn how to price your products for wholesale while keeping your profits intact.
- Understand the ins and outs of packaging and presenting your goods to retail buyers.
- Perfect your pitch and create irresistible wholesale line sheets.
- Build strong relationships with buyers and explore new markets.
Plus, you’ll learn directly from Kellie Fitzpatrick, founder of Lenny & Eva. Kellie has grown her business from a small operation in Baxter, TN, to a national brand sold in stores across the country. She’s got insider tips and advice you won’t want to miss!
Don’t miss this chance to grow your brand and take your business to the next level. Spaces for the workshop and market are limited, so reserve your spot now and get ready to connect with fellow makers and retailers!
Ready to grow your brand? Sign up for the workshop and market today!
Workshop Registration: Sign up here
Wholesale Market Registration: Sign up here
Let’s make 2025 the year you scale your business!
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