One question I often hear is, “Why should I be working with a Promotional Products distributor when I can just order everything online?”
Let’s address it!
Here are 5 reasons why working with a distributor might be a good idea for your business.
1. They’re Experienced Promotional Product Experts
Your rep spends his or her entire day in front of the latest trends and will be able to tell you what is currently hip and trendy. They’ve assisted with tradeshows, employee and client giveaways, special marketing promotions, mailing projects, etc. When you work with a solid promo distributor you are working with someone who knows the ins and outs of the industry and will be able to get you the merchandise YOU want in the most efficient manner possible.
Not sure what you should buy? Have a complex idea and you’re not sure how to approach it? They’ll be able to make targeted recommendations based on your needs and budget.
2. They Can Help You Plan (or Help You Out of a Jam)
Here is a common scenario I have seen as a promo distributor rep: the client has been planning an event for weeks/months but forgot to order a crucial piece such as t-shirts or a display.
Panicked, they call me up and ask me if there is anything I can do to help them. One benefit of them doing so is that due to the relationships my company has established and maintained over years in the industry, I can usually can help them out without breaking the bank.
On the flip side, if you have some time before your event we can serve as your event-planning partner to work beside you as time progresses. For instance, sourcing items from overseas takes longer and is not a good fit in a time crunch but comes with the added benefits of substantial cost savings, added room for creativity, private labeling, and more.
3. Their Services are Tailored to Your Specific Needs
Like most folks in the digital age, if you’re looking for something you most likely will head straight to Google. So let’s say you’re looking for a basic promotional item like custom pens. Your Google search probably looks something like this :
3.46 million hits! Make no mistake, there are a ton of options to choose from. The downside to this? There really isn’t a way to be sure you’ll get the level of service you’ll need. Will you even get to speak with a person? Will you get to see, touch, write with the pen before you buy it? Want a specific pen that you’re unable to find with a Google search?
These are all reasons to work with a promotional products distributor. They can get samples in your hands, guide you through the process with personalized service, and have access to more options than available through some of the links you might come across.
4. Logistics, Fulfillment, and Warehousing
Have ten locations you need to send items to? No problem.
Want to make a bulk purchase and store for later use? No problem.
When you have a complex project with multiple moving parts a promotional distributor serves as your partner to assure each piece is handled by the appropriate source, then assembled and packaged to your specifications. With their assistance you can take advantage of bulk discounts and distribute items to your different locations as needed.
One common scenario is a bank with several different types of forms, tickets, pens, bags, mugs, etc. Your distributor can help you make a bulk purchase to serve each branch, store them in their warehouse for usage as needed, and even assist with couriering items to your branches.
5. One Stop Shop
Your promotional products distributor most likely has more tools under their belt than just promotional products. They can help you optimize your business checks, brochures, labels, office products, and often more. Your distributor is your strategic sourcing partner and can help you get the right product with great service at a great price.
Not currently working with a distributor? Interested in learning more? I’m happy to help. If there is anything I can help you with, or if you just have more questions please feel free to reach out: 615-7709-8036.
