posted on April 18, 2002 08:19:33 PM new
We just opened a B&M store and have a couple knife and medieval suppliers but i'm looking for somebody new. I don't want to compete with you on the auction sites, I just need some TRUE wholesale dealers for our store.
I understand if you don't want to list your "secret" places on the boards, and if that's the case please e-mail me ([email protected]) with your recommendations.
What i'm looking for are quality distributors, not cheap stuff. But it MUST be wholesale, please don't e-mail me with Maxam, or Y & Y out of Florida. I really need input from other B & M store owners.
I'm a disabled Veteran who REALLY needs this for a solid income and solid profit. Any input is VERY much appreciated! Thank you for your time.
posted on April 19, 2002 09:54:39 PM new
The majority of suppliers deal in imported items as youve allready found. The quality items are expensive - wholesale price per item is about what an import sells for new. You can find the wholesalers by doing web searches for Cutlery manufacturers/distributors, Knife dealers manufacturers etc - You can also go to Trade shows and find manufacturers reps and dealers. There are several each year in New york at the Javits convention center also in Las vegas there are several one of the biggest is Magic held in August and February. I believe there are a couple of smaller Accessories conventions in Orlando. You can find specific info by contacting the Chambers of Commerce for the cities I mentioned. You might try stocking some of the better Import items to get a feel for how the items move before burning thru a bundle of capital on German steel. Buy a few Randals from the company - see if they move first. When you stock up that first time after opening its good to go with a few items in a broad range till you get a feel for what customers in your shop will buy. I had a shop for 9-1/2 years worst thing I ever did was to buy to much of something I couldnt sell. Before you do anything take a walk thru your local flea markets and see if there are dealers selling what you plan to stock - It dosnt matter too much if you are in a mall type shop but it can kill the market if you are catering to that level of customer.
Wish you luck
Ok4
posted on April 19, 2002 10:07:10 PM new
ok4leather,
And whom is your recommendation for the imported items. I've made a small investment from a spanish manufacturer and I know what you mean about price. If you would e-mail me with some reliable distributors I would be most gracious! Thank you.
