By: THE SWAG DIGEST – Admark360.com
In the US alone, the size of the promotional product (SWAG) industry is well over $17bn. The number of distributors available in those billions is upwards of 40 thousand—because of the significant number of distributors within the industry, choosing between them can be challenging.
We all know the importance of promotional products and the enormous returns on investment they can offer our businesses. Making the right choice of a distributor can be just as important as choosing the promotional product itself. We’ll be swiping left and right, helping you pick the right distributor to work with when considering these essential purchases.
Big or small distributors; Does size matter?
All distributors have access to the same suppliers and products, with a couple of minor exceptions but mainly picking the right distributor comes down to personality. When ordering SWAG, you’ll be presented with two options: MEGA or Small independent distributors. We broke it down to help you determine which option is more desirable for you.
MEGA Distributors: Size Does Matter
The first category we want to discuss is MEGA distributors. There are various factors which they excel within, others not. That’s because of their business structure.
Typically, the larger distributors like Staples and 4imprint only offer standardized order taking and basic customer service. However, on the other hand, they have superior websites that provide designing software, allowing you to see the bespoke item before it’s ordered.
Here is a further breakdown of the MEGA distributors - Right Swipe (Pros) and Left Swipe (Cons):
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LEFT SWIPE |
RIGHT SWIPE |
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Requires extensive research through thousands of products to find your Ideal SWAG |
You can have instant gratification, visualize your order before you purchase |
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Up-front payments necessary on all orders; no payment terms available |
Usually, they have functional websites that don’t require you to interact with a representative |
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Ordering from them usually consist of large minimum order quantities (MOQ) that many small businesses can’t afford |
Offer exclusive customizable items from stock |
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They usually have a more extensive client base, meaning they’re less focused on individual partnerships |
Perfect for those that already understand their product, its quality, and feel confident ordering without speaking to a representative |
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Partnership and sponsorship opportunities are non-existent at certain levels -smaller venues, schools, churches, etc. |
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Small Distributors: Small But Mighty
When engaging with any small business, you’re supporting the local community, not a global organization that turns around multiple billions each year. Additionally, you build a much more focused, trustful, and reliable partnership with people that want you to succeed. It’s an element that independent distributors provide exceptionally, offering a customized experience with each client.
If you give small distributors details about your target audience, theme, objective, and more, they’ll provide presentations with product options for your order. In most instances, they’re a superior option for first-time buyers, as they’ll happily guide them through the process and ensure satisfaction.
Here is some additional information about the independent distributors - Right Swipe (Pros) and Left Swipe (Cons):
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LEFT SWIPE |
RIGHT SWIPE |
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You might need to leave a message or wait for an email reply |
They’ll happily provide you with personalized presentations on recommended goods based on your target audience, niche, occasion, and objective |
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Their websites are usually less robust than MEGA distributors. A less robust website forces you to communicate with the distributor |
Usually, there are lower minimum order quantities, perfect for businesses trying out SWAG products |
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Sometimes orders can take longer due to their smaller-sized business. However, the overall customer experience is exceptional (product finding, choices, communication, etc.) |
You genuinely mean something to them, not just added figures on their forecast. Plus most offer payment terms up to 30 or 60 days. |
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They’re highly trained and educated in advertising, marketing and sales. So, they understand the business and your goals |
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Partnership and sponsorship opportunities are encouraged, smaller distributors are involved with their communities. Especially at smaller venues, schools, churches, etc. |
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Smaller distributors are on the ground and in the trenches, which translates to more knowledge of products. They offer their staff education, seminars, and more to improve knowledge within the sector |
Overview
After reviewing the above, you can quickly determine which way to swipe between: small or mega distributors. Undeniably, each can provide you with what you’re looking for, SWAG products. However, depending on your business’s structure, one might benefit you more than the other.
We believe that smaller distributors offer a more comprehensive experience. With these, you can quickly build long-lasting partnerships with individuals that generally care about your business’s success.
If you’re looking for an independent distributor, we recommend looking at Admark360. We treat all clients as partners, offering them a comprehensive experience to success. Consider checking out our website www.admark360.com or giving us a call, and we can send you our capabilities brochure.
If not Admark360, try this - It’s not Tinder, but it will help you find a distributor near you - IndustryDirectory (ppai.org).
REMEMBER: GREAT SWAG HAS NO EXPIRATION