Rethinking Wholesale Strategies: Faire.com vs. Direct Outreach

How Handmade Sellers Can Maximize Profits by Cutting Out High Fees

Navigating the wholesale retail landscape can feel like a high-stakes game of trade-offs. On one hand, platforms like Faire.com offer convenience—connecting you with retailers in a snap. On the other, they come with steep fees that can seriously cut into your profits. If your goal is to maximize earnings and build deeper relationships with retailers, direct outreach might just be your secret weapon. In this post, we’ll compare Faire.com with direct outreach using real-world examples and actionable tips that you can apply to your handmade business.

The High Cost of Convenience on Faire.com

Platforms like Faire.com are designed to simplify wholesale operations. They connect you with retailers quickly, handle orders, and even offer marketing support. However, this ease of use comes at a price. Faire.com charges significant fees—typically around 15% + $10 on first orders and 15% on reorders—not to mention additional hidden costs that can eat into your margins.

Consider these examples:

• Custom Ceramics: A ceramic company selling unique, handcrafted mugs might net only $66 profit on their first sale through Faire, compared to $90 when selling directly.

• Handmade Knitwear: A knitwear business might see first-sale profits of $143 on Faire versus $180 on a direct wholesale deal.

• Bespoke Stationery: A boutique stationery brand could earn $100 per order via Faire, while direct outreach could net them $130.

  
  

Bold Note: These fees might seem small per order, but they add up quickly, reducing your overall profitability and potentially stifling your business growth.

Why Direct Outreach Makes a Difference

Direct outreach means taking the initiative to contact retailers yourself—no middleman, no extra fees. While this approach requires more time and effort, it offers several compelling benefits:

• Higher Profit Margins: Without the hefty fees charged by platforms like Faire, your profits per order can be significantly higher.

• Personal Relationships: Direct outreach allows you to build genuine connections with retail buyers. You can tailor your pitch, answer questions in real-time, and negotiate exclusive deals that strengthen your brand’s position.

• Customized Marketing: You have the freedom to craft personalized proposals that highlight what makes your handmade products truly unique. This approach can lead to better placement and more loyal retail partnerships.

Deep Value Insight: Direct outreach isn’t just about saving money—it’s about investing time in building relationships. Retail buyers are more likely to respond positively when they see a personalized touch rather than a generic pitch. Your unique story, quality, and passion can shine through and create a lasting impact.

Actionable Tips for Successful Direct Outreach

1. Identify Your Ideal Retail Partners

Action Item:

• Create a list of retailers that align with your brand.

• Look for local boutiques, specialty stores, or even online retailers who cater to your target audience.

How to Do It:

• Research: Use online directories, social media, and trade publications to compile a list of potential partners.

• Network: Attend local craft fairs and trade shows to discover retailers in your niche.

Deep Value Insight:When you know exactly who your ideal buyer is, your outreach becomes more targeted and effective. Tailor your pitch to address the specific needs and values of each retailer.

Bold Note: The more targeted your list, the better your chances of building fruitful partnerships.

2. Craft a Personalized Pitch

Action Item:

• Develop a compelling, personalized pitch that tells your brand’s story and highlights the unique benefits of your products.

How to Do It:

• Tell Your Story: Explain what sets your handmade products apart—be it the craftsmanship, the materials, or the inspiration behind your creations.

• Highlight Value: Clearly articulate how your products can benefit the retailer’s customers. For example, if you sell handmade ceramics, mention how your products offer a unique, artisanal alternative to mass-produced items.

• Include Visuals: Attach high-quality images or a lookbook of your products to capture attention.

Deep Value Insight:A personalized pitch demonstrates that you’ve done your homework and genuinely believe in your product. It opens the door to meaningful conversations and shows retailers that you’re committed to building a lasting partnership.

Bold Note: Your pitch should be as unique as your products—authentic, engaging, and tailored to each retailer’s needs.

3. Follow Up Consistently

Action Item:

• After sending your initial pitch, schedule follow-ups to keep the conversation going.

How to Do It:

• Set Reminders: Use a CRM or even a simple spreadsheet to track your outreach efforts.

• Be Persistent: If you don’t hear back, send a friendly reminder email or even make a follow-up call.

• Ask for Feedback: If a retailer declines your offer, politely ask for feedback. This insight can help you refine your approach for future outreach.

Deep Value Insight:Persistence is key in direct outreach. Every follow-up is an opportunity to strengthen your relationship and demonstrate your commitment. Even a “no” can provide valuable feedback to improve your future pitches.

Bold Note: Consistency in follow-ups can be the secret ingredient to turning a “maybe” into a “yes.”

4. Leverage Social Proof and Testimonials

Action Item:

• Collect testimonials and case studies from satisfied customers to include in your pitch materials.

How to Do It:

• Gather Reviews: Ask your existing customers to share their experiences with your products.

• Create a Lookbook: Compile these testimonials along with high-quality images of your products in use.

• Showcase Success: Highlight any media features, awards, or significant sales milestones to add credibility.

Deep Value Insight:Social proof reassures retailers that your products have a proven track record. It builds trust and can help overcome initial hesitations.

Bold Note: When buyers see that others love your products, they’re more likely to take a chance on your brand.

5. Optimize Your Online Presence

Action Item:

• Ensure your website and online store reflect your brand’s quality and authenticity.

How to Do It:

• High-Quality Visuals: Use professional photos and engaging descriptions to showcase your products.

• User-Friendly Design: Make it easy for retailers and customers alike to navigate your site and learn about your brand.

• SEO Best Practices: Optimize your site for search engines so that potential retail partners can easily find you online.

Deep Value Insight:A polished online presence not only attracts customers but also convinces retailers that you’re serious about your business. It’s your digital storefront—make sure it leaves a lasting impression.

Bold Note: Your website is often the first impression a retailer gets—make it count with clear, compelling, and visually stunning content.

Comparing the Costs: Faire.com vs. Direct Outreach

Let’s put things into perspective. Using a platform like Faire.com is incredibly convenient but comes at a steep price—with fees of 15% + $10 on first orders and 15% on reorders. Direct outreach bypasses these fees, allowing you to keep more of your hard-earned money while building personal relationships with retailers.

Actionable Tip: Run a quick comparison of your margins with and without Faire fees. Use this data to decide where your efforts should be focused.

Deep Value Insight: Direct outreach, though more labor-intensive, can significantly boost your profits and create stronger, lasting retail partnerships.

Bold Note: Every dollar saved on fees is a dollar you can reinvest in your business. Choose the path that maximizes your long-term growth.

Rethinking your wholesale strategies by choosing direct outreach over platforms like Faire.com can lead to higher profit margins and stronger retailer relationships. By identifying your ideal retail partners, crafting personalized pitches, following up consistently, leveraging social proof, and optimizing your online presence, you can transform your wholesale efforts into a robust revenue stream.

Remember, every connection you make is a stepping stone toward building a thriving, sustainable handmade business. If you’re ready to maximize your profits and forge genuine partnerships, consider shifting your approach and investing in direct outreach.

Bold Final Note: Your handmade creations are unique—and the relationships you build with retailers can be just as unique. Embrace direct outreach, and watch your business flourish! xoxox Cheri

Happy selling, stay bold, and here’s to building lasting partnerships and thriving as a handmade seller!