In these challenging times we have to be competitive and build strong foundations for a sound business. Due to the current exchange rates for the Euro and Dollar, overseas customers are going to look towards the UK for sourcing their designer wear.
Paramount preparation for such ventures can be achieved through Karen Radley's lectures and one-to-one consultations.
Exporting abroad: Phase 1
Exporting your clothing collections is not rocket science or to be treated with fear and trepidation. Exporting is merely selling your goods to another country and it should be seen as a natural extension to you supplying any other retailer in the UK. Or is it?
Previous Experience
There are several rules to be faced and the most important is very simply, do not and I repeat do not do it unless you have previous experience in selling in the UK.
Know your Market
Exporting involves various guidelines and detailed paperwork but most importantly a thoroughly researched understanding of each market is essential. Therefore, before you make a decision to sell overseas, study the market, what is on offer and are your products as saleable, if not more?
Budget
You need to create a business plan for selling to each country you are targeting and set aside a budget for the expenses and costs including travel.
Selling to a Country
Each overseas country is different and make sure you have an understanding of the people and a basic knowledge of the language is helpful.
Target your country
Now select a country where you think you would like to market your products.
Quality
Have confidence in your product and ensure it is well designed and of the highest quality. Overseas markets are used to quality and well made products.
Delivery
You have only one bite of the cherry and if you deliver late you may not get another chance.
Collection
To sell abroad you need to replicate your collections – how this is done and presented is very important. Clarity and detailed information is fundamental, quality of samples is imperative and most importantly how they are displayed is essential.
Pricing
To ensure you price correctly is crucial and to cover all your costs and the currency and exchange rate variations must be addressed and included. In addition I suggest you consider costing in an insurance to collect debts and payments.
Next steps
If you are still seriously thinking about UK sales and exporting your collections, a natural business move in this economic climate considering the current state of exchange rates, you may wish to attend one of my talks or to contact me directly for a personal consultation.
How to start: Phase 2
Business Plan
Every season make sure you have a business plan and budget. This should be based on reasonable costs, expenses and achievable forecasted sales.
Designing the collection
Know your end customer, whom you are targeting and why.
Fabrics: Sourcing, choosing colours, selecting fabrics, and ordering sample lengths.
Collections: vision, sketches and what is your theme and inspiration.
Making the initial collection
Either sample with a reputable factory or make in-house.
Ensure fit and make is up to the highest standard
Edit the collection
Be confident and edit the collection before showing. Do not confuse the customer with too many options.
Cost the collection
Make certain you cover all costs, expenses and overheads.
Allow for small production runs.
Market the collections in the UK: Phase 3
Sales
Show as early as possible
Select a selling agency or market the collection yourself.
Provide detailed and clear information on the collection.
Sort out acceptable payment terms in your favour.
Publicise the collection
Try to get as much information to retail customers.
Negotiate a special rate with a PR agency willing to promote a new designer.
Find a sponsor to pay for PR or Fashion Show.
Production and Manufacturing
Complete all orders against sales as customers appreciate full deliveries. Deliver well and on-time.
Getting Paid
Ensure you take out references and insurance on customers.
To contact Karen Radley and view her profile please click here
