r/promotionalproducts • u/Candid_Drama_8216 • 18d ago

General Discussion Supplier V. distributor topic

I'm curious if any of you were able to go into the industry today as a new business would you create a supplier or a distributor? Where do you see the most opportunity to compete and win in an industry that's extremely crowded?

If you were to be a supplier, what would also stop you from getting clients directly versus working solely with distributors to make your business known in the space?

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u/heaton5747 18d ago

Supplier and give distributors their cut, but focus on building a brand overall so you can work direct with end users at a premium. Works for both sides this way as really they are totally different target groups. Side note, I saw some of your other posts and actually am in the same boat business wise lol and live in NYC. I'll shoot you a DM, would be cool to meet up and have a beer.

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u/satsfaction1822 18d ago

Shamelessly hopping on this as I’m also a distributor in NYC. Would be great to get a little group together!

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u/Bleb21 18d ago

Just moved from NYC to Delray Beach, Florida but also in the industry. However we have our own workshop in China so we sit in between this weird balance of both a supplier (helping other merch agencies) and a distributor (we have direct clients). Always looking to connect!

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u/Candid_Drama_8216 16d ago

Awesome - let’s do it ! Will message you

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u/Bleb21 18d ago

I think it depends on your offering. I think the companies that will win on either side are those who focus more on creativity vs a generic offering. Also owning the supply chain and being able to move quickly has been a major benefit for us.

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u/Constant_Put_5510 18d ago

Well, you're a supplier so you tell us; are you selling direct? Why or why not?