Leather Belts Business

[kamilanwar]

Hi

I am planning to manufacture own designer genuine leather belts also clear on the manufacturing process. However, one thing that i would like to know is how do i distribute the belts in the UK to various stores etc?

Can this be done by a distribution company?

Thanks

 

[Lek Weiss]

Are you aiming to supply the big multiples or independent stores?

The big multiples have their own buyers, you need to get in front of them which is not easy. For the independents you need to get your products seen at the various trade shows, Spring Fair, Moda, Pulse and a number of others. Depends on how you are going to pitch your prices/quality. The big wholesale operations in Commercial Road in London and Cheetham Hill in Manchester to name just two have huge buying power in China particularly for leather goods. I would not expect to spend much more than a couple of pounds for a leather belt to retail somewhere between £10 and £15.

It all depends what you USP is, it is a very competitive market

Best
Lek

 

[kamilanwar]

Could you provide name / address of the ones in Cheetham Hill? I was thinking of supplying to both individuals and big ones through a distribution company but seems i can only target individuals through tradefairs.

 

[Lek Weiss]

If you Google wholesalers, you will get some to start you off. I'm not sure if they buy from anywhere other than China (for leather goods) as they can source so cheaply there and bring whole 40 foot containers in. Google maps for the area is a bit out of date as the wholesalers come and go. Check out Derby Street and the surrounding area to give you an idea of the numbers in the area. Probably well worth a visit, it can be a bit of an eye opener!