Placing order with manufacturer ???

[little_stork]

:| Hello Everyone,
Not sure if this is in the right place?? I am about to place an order with a clothing manufacturer as i will be launching my own range of Welsh Baby wear. They have sent samples that i am happy with and when i place my order they want the full cost up front. Is this the norm?? In the scheme of things it's small change to them but to me it is alot. Advice please.....

Regards Little Stork:|

 

[Pebble Communications]

Seems fair if they are making something up specifically for you.

 

[SillyJokes]

How much are we talking about?

You say it is peanuts to them but a lot to you.

Getting your own range would be very exciting and more financially rewarding than selling other peoples stuff where you have to compete not only on price but marketing.

 

[cjd]

I doubt M&S has that sort of relationship with their manufacturers put you don't have that kind of market power - you could try offering half up front and half on delivery but without a track record they'll probably tell you where to go.

 

[little_stork]

Thanks for advice Guys. I am having to design the stuff myself as the current merchandise on the market is sooo expensive, ie a baby t-shirt will cost £4.00 and i can do it myself for £1.50 same quality etc etc. Its scary though as it's a risk but most business is isn't it??

Regards Little stork

 

[cjd]

Its scary though as it's a risk but most business is isn't it??

Regards Little stork

Oh yes, it's a risk; but as you say, business is about managing risk successfully. Good luck.

 

[little_stork]

Thanks CJD.

 

[Toon]

Most suppliers would ask for payment upfront for at least the first two orders and then would maybe offer you a credit account. They need to build up some trust too.

 

[atmcouk]

See if they will accept 60% up front & remainder on collection.

 

[Kent Accountant]

Run a credit check on the supplier to ensure that they are financially secure.
PM me with the details and I can probably do it for you

 

[SillyJokes]

If we are talking about someone printing 60 baby grows for you it is no wonder they want the money up front. They probably deal with dozens of new start ups and therefore know the risks involved in them not ever actually turning up for the goods.

 

[little_stork]

Silly Jokes

I spoke to them today, my order is 130 tshirts, 130 long tshirts 130 babygrows. Small fry i know.... They will accept payment once they have made the clothes, only by cheque which i thought was odd and £8.00 postage.
Regards
Little Stork

 

[KM-Tiger]

:....... and when i place my order they want the full cost up front. Is this the norm?

If they are manufacturing these goods for you then yes I would say it is the norm. Otherwise they have no certainty of getting paid for the work they do.

I would pay up quickly and without discussion. Anything else will look like you don't have the means to pay. This will then stand you in good stead to negotiate terms if you place a second order.

 

[SillyJokes]

You are right to start small (although I personally would have gone smaller stiff if possible to test the market). Hopefully this will be start of something big for you.

 

[little_stork]

fingers crossed sillyjokes x