how much variety of stock?

[bluezebra]

How many different lines of stock do you think is ideal for a web based business. I think I need to extend my stock range, but don't have huge amounts of cash to invest. Just wondering if there is a magic 'ideal' product range level. Thanks

[Essence]

Hi bluezebra,

I don't know if there is an 'ideal' no. of product lines that a business should have, but I'd be more inclined to intensely specialise in a small range, rather than have masses of very general lines that offer nothing special.

Could you invest in adding something special to your current lines? Something like the gift wrap service you currently offer, for example.

Will send you a PM with some ideas.

Essence.

[SillyJokes]

I would add new lines slowly and see what people want to buy alongside the offering you already have.

It's tricky but I would say to a point, the more lines you have the more you will turn over but be careful not to get into a negative cash flow situation.

Don't buy too much stock in the first hit - see if you can shift it first - dip your toe. You may hit on a winner, but more likely it'll either be rubbish or just steady money. Don't be bullied by suppliers into buying more than you want.

Is there any way you could partner another related site - perhaps one that does personlised baby t-shirts? or natural nappies? That way you could create a new income stream without the need for investment.

Ask customers what else they are looking for.

Checkout competitors including Boots - see what they put alongside their soft toys in store.

Incidentally, when I buy a baby gift I usually try and get something for the new big brother or sister as they can feel left out. Would a small range of things for them add to your basket size?

[Jayne]

Maybe some of your suppliers would do sale or return, or a buy to order deal. Compertion is fierce now, so maybe your suppliers would be interested in this. It's in there best interest to help you sell there products, so give them a ring and ask. It's worth a go.

Best Wishes

Jayne

[Alpha]

To be perfectly honest there is no magic product range(size) it is simply? a matter of stocking what sells. As Sillyjokes says (And with her background and experience she would know better than most of us) you should look out for new products which can complement your range. Try them out without buying large quantities or better still find suppliers that can deliver quicker than your promised leadtimes and only order when you get an order(Or get initial stocks on a sale or return basis) Try to keep your stock levels to a minimum which on established products means calculating the average sales volumes, adjusting for seasonality and hold enough stock to fulfill the average orders gained in the time that it takes for your supplier to deliver. Or plus a few if you know that they sometimes have problems getting your orders to you on time. The key here is to find good reliable suppliers.

[SillyJokes]

Hi again,

I had another look at your site and you do seem to have a very small inventory at the moment - around 25 items.

While you will need to do the maths in terms of how much you can invest in stock if you double this you would certainly see a proportionate increase in orders because more people who visit your site will be able to find something to buy - it's as simple as that.

Also those that have previously bought cannot buy the same thing for all their friends - or risk looking thoughtless so giving them increased choice will get the repeat orders.

Having said that, you are trying to grow a business here and if you over stretch you will shoot yourself in the foot. Don't double your inventory instantly - make a plan to add a few products at a time over a period and test what sells and what doesn't.

PS I just love the 'You are my sunshine' motif shirt - I wish I knew someone having a baby. Is it your best seller?



And on another note I think the product image on your details page should be larger - it's annoying to browse and have to click to enlarge every single product image. The small image simply isn't big enough to see the detail and you do have room for a larger image there.

If you see on my site the following clapper board product:

The first image is 100 wide, the second image on the details page is 200 wide and then if the customer likes they can see a massive image around 400 wide.

http://www.sillyjokes.co.uk/wacky/props/index.html

[bluezebra]

Thanks for all your comments - they are really helpful and I will be looking at what I can do stock wise. Will also look at the sie of the images as suggested.

[SillyJokes]

Blue Zebra - are you going to the Autumn Fair at the NEC in early September

http://www.autumnfair.co.uk

It's a great place to source gorgeous things.

[bluezebra]

Silly Jokes - not sure about the fair. I need to look at who will be there. ATM I am trying to concentrate on natural, organic and fair-trade products only and not sure if many of these will be at the show. Might just go out of interest though .. you never know what might turn up! Thanks for the link.

[SillyJokes]

Blue Zebra - you can search the exhibitors by fair trade - there were 9 suppliers and 5 organic.

It's the most amazing show to visit in any case. I'm trying to think of a reason to go myself, though I have none this year.