In the previous article we saw the various challenges a new streetwear brand (brand that makes T Shirts, Polo T Shirts, Hoodies, Sweatshirts) traces when starting up in this article we will discuss in the strategies that you can deploy to overcome those challenges and how the cloth craft can help you in overcoming those challenges.
Networking: We recommend to do extensive networking within the garments and clothing industry players in your niche. It can be suppliers, retailers, printers, trade shows, online platforms, retail markets or any other medium. Don’t be shy of asking for recommendations and reference checks for wholesale manufacturers and suppliers of clothing and garments. The more people you know, it can be helpful to you in one way or other. Be patient with networking – it takes time and conscious effort.
Thorough research and vetting: Extensive research and careful vetting of potential suppliers are crucial. Look for companies with a good reputation, aligned values, and experience working with similar brands. Don’t necessarily go by promising and flowery words and languages, it is the delivery that matters. Meet large number of suppliers, visit trade shows, do google search, visit Instagram profiles and do reference checks before you place your orders.
Start small and build relationships: Suppliers will push you for higher MOQ’s. But begin with smaller orders and build trust with suppliers over time. Explain the suppliers that you are new and want to start a new business relationship which will grow over time. Starting small allows you to test the waters, assess quality, and establish a stronger relationship for future. When you come across a new supplier, ask him for their MOQ and understand how their pricing changes when the quantity increases. Work with suppliers that want to support you in your venture.
Work with sourcing agents (also known as buying agents): Consider working with sourcing agents who have expertise in the industry and connections with reliable manufacturers. Sourcing agents play a crucial role and can be very helpful to you. They have history of long connections with suppliers and have the industry and product knowledge. Working with them can help you reduce MOQ and get advise on the fabrics, trends, colors, styles and products. These sourcing agents have connections with suppliers and manufacturers in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and China. They import regularly for their wholesale and retail clients.
Prioritize ethical and sustainable practices: Partner with suppliers who share your commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. This will not only align with your brand values but also resonate with today’s consumers. Sustainable fabrics are becoming more popular among customers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia and middle east in general. Sustainable fabrics include 100% organic cotton and recycled cotton and recycled polyester fabric. You can look at our website for sustainable products options.
Clearly communicate expectations: Clearly communicate your design specifications, quality expectations, and timelines to manufacturers to avoid misunderstandings and ensure smooth production. Your agreed terms and conditions are better communicated in writing as well to avoid issues later.
Regular progress monitoring: Regularly monitor production progress and maintain open communication with manufacturers to identify and address any potential issues early on. Unfortunately, most of the suppliers are not very well organized to be able to provide you updates or communicate properly the status of your order or the issues facing. Most common issue is the delay in production and quality differing from what was agreed. You might not like it but it takes a lot of follow up and chasing to get your product in quality and in time. Professional suppliers come very handy in this regard. We don’t want to boast but at The Cloth Craft, we pride ourselves to being professional and keeping to our words. In case we are unable to fulfil the commitment due to unforeseen circumstances, we communicate to our customers well in advance and offer alternate solutions.
Cost analysis and budgeting: Conduct thorough cost analyses to understand all aspects of production, allowing you to set realistic budgets and avoid financial surprises. Building in all costs including the fixed cost and value of your time are also important. Include cost of product, transportation, warehousing, etc. as variable cost of the product. At the same time, allocate all fixed costs to the volume that you sell to arrive at the per unit fixed cost. Cost of manpower, office rent, office cost, marketing, website, travel, accounting, trade license cost and also the value of your time.
Keep close watch on Working Capital (it is equally important to business growth and profits): Investment in working capital can creep up fairly quickly if you don’t keep a close watch on the same. Keeping low MOQ, keeping only fast moving styles and colors, getting credit period from suppliers and service providers, taking prompt payments from customers are some of the ways to keep your working capital needs low.
By understanding the above challenges and implementing appropriate strategies, new clothing brands can navigate the complexities of sourcing, ensuring a smooth and successful launch of their clothing line.
We at The Cloth Craft seek to guide and support the new clothing brands in Dubai, UAE and Middle East. We can provide reference, advise and guidance even if brands are not sourcing products from us. We also support the brands with zero MOQ orders (you can even order once piece), coach you on the quality of fabrics, styles, colors and trends. We also develop new fabrics and styles to meet your unique brand identity. From Single Jersey, French Terry and Fleece in all fabrics cotton, organic cotton and recycled cotton we can fulfil your fabric needs and also provide you wide selection of ready styles to choose from. Wish you all the best !!. Contact us today and we can discuss in more detail.
