How to get sole distribution right

[meredith]

Hi - I have found a great product in America that to my knowledge hasn't reached these shores yet.

How do you go about becoming a sole distributor (if they don't have one yet) and whats involved?

[MinuWeb]

you need to speak to the people in the US about it, they may be willing to give you rights for the UK dependant on some things (normally budget and commitment)

[William Wilson]

A company may grant you a dealership, whether it’s exclusive depends on how appealing your distribution channels are.

If you have an existing channel for their products and you can demonstrate your ability to deliver to their targets you may be in a position to negotiate a with deal them.

[meredith]

Thanks for your responses.

Obviously I have no experience in this area but I know a great product when I see one.

I'd like to do my homework before I talk to them so I don't sound clueless.

What do I need to find out - the idea is to get the product in department stores.

Is it worth ordering the product from them and approaching stores first? I'm aware I probably won't be taken seriously if I appear inexperienced.

[MinuWeb]

I would start by putting together a business plan and your marketing ideas and then discussing it with the company in the USA before trying to promote it to anyone in the UK.

[fastfences]

With respect to VS, why not check with the USA company about thye likelihood of distributors here BEFORE you commit time and possibly money to a business plan?
Cheers Nigel