The internet is flooded with wholesale suppliers offering a dizzying array of products, often with the added convenience of dropshipping. However, uncovering a hidden gem that truly generates profits can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The big-name brands dominating wholesale directories are already saturated with resellers, making it nearly impossible to compete on platforms like eBay or Facebook unless you have a dedicated customer base.
To truly stand out in the crowded online marketplace, you need a unique product – something that sparks excitement and demand. It requires delving deep into those endless lists, sifting through the ordinary until you unearth a hidden treasure. As a seasoned veteran of online marketing with over two decades of experience, I can attest to the challenges of carving out a niche in the mass market. But with persistence, a discerning eye, and a sprinkle of luck, you might just discover that elusive needle and reap the rewards of a truly distinctive offering.
Finding Niche Suppliers
If you do not have your own products and cannot find one in your local community then search the classifieds. Look for people selling something interesting and contact them and see if they would mind you selling their products for some percent of the profit.
Here are a few approaches to find potential artisan partners for your website:
- Etsy: Etsy is a treasure trove of handmade and vintage items. Look for sellers with high ratings and positive reviews, but who haven’t quite reached a massive following. Reach out to them directly and inquire about wholesale or consignment options.
- Local Craft Fairs and Markets: These events are fantastic for discovering talented artisans who might not have a strong online presence. Strike up conversations, inquire about their production capacity, and see if they’re open to partnering with you.
- Social Media: Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are goldmines for unique handmade goods. Search relevant hashtags (e.g., #handmadejewelry, #artisanceramics), explore niche communities, and connect with makers who catch your eye.
- Online Directories: Websites like Handmade Artists and IndieMade showcase a wide array of artisans and crafters. Browse through their listings and reach out to those who align with your brand’s aesthetic and values.
- Word-of-Mouth: Ask friends, family, and colleagues if they know of any talented artisans who might be interested in expanding their reach. You might be surprised by the hidden gems in your network!
Important Considerations:
- Product Quality: Ensure the artisan’s products meet your quality standards and align with your target audience’s preferences.
- Production Capacity: Assess whether the artisan can consistently produce enough inventory to meet potential demand on your website.
- Pricing and Profit Margins: Discuss pricing structures and profit-sharing arrangements that are fair and beneficial for both parties.
- Shipping and Logistics: Determine how shipping and handling will be managed, and who will bear the associated costs.
- Legal Agreements: Formalize your partnership with a written contract outlining terms and conditions, including exclusivity (if applicable), payment terms, and termination clauses.
By following these steps and considering these factors, you can discover talented artisans and forge mutually beneficial partnerships that enrich your website’s offerings and support independent creators.
Recommended Suppliers – Reseller Bonus 10% Commissions
These two options have the advantage of a trusted expert, myself, Glenn Madden as being the owner and operator. But the market is competive. The advantage is if you can bring in the business the cut of the pie for you will be 10% of the profits.
Glenn Furniture: We only sell in bulk and ship direct from our factory in Indonesia. The average 40ft container load of high end furniture can sell for upwards of $50,000. So even though sales might be far and few between, the individual sales can bring in more than $5,000 for a reseller commission.
Glenn Website Design: You can find our pricing on the website. As a reseller you would get 10% for any referrals that convert to buyers. Low end price of a website is $500 for basic, up to $10,000 or more for ecommerce.
PAYOUTS: All of this is handled manually so you just have to trust me. But with very little research you will find that Glenn Madden is very easy to find. For myself that is the first test of any business. The SCAM artists are here today, gone tomorrow. The bad businesses quickly get bad comments somewhere. I never push clients for feedback so you will find very little positive. But keep in mind that negative feedback is never solicited, it comes like rain if you fail to provide the service promised.
Wholesale and Dropship Lists – The Haystack With One Needle
The best wholesale sources depend on what you’re looking for, your budget, and your target market. However, some popular options include:
Alibaba: This massive online marketplace connects you with manufacturers and suppliers worldwide, offering a vast array of products at competitive prices. Be prepared to buy in bulk and navigate international shipping.
Wholesale Central: A comprehensive directory of wholesalers and dropshippers across various industries. It’s a great resource for finding niche suppliers and browsing product categories.
TopTenWholesale: This platform features a mix of suppliers and trade shows, giving you access to a wide range of products and networking opportunities.
Faire: A curated marketplace for independent retailers, offering unique, handcrafted, and artisan goods. Faire is ideal if you’re looking for distinctive products to differentiate your store.
Doba: This dropshipping platform simplifies the process of finding and sourcing products from various suppliers. It’s a good option for beginners or those who want a hassle-free dropshipping experience.
Remember, it’s important to research and vet any wholesale supplier before doing business with them. Look for reviews, verify their credentials, and understand their terms and conditions.