Get your first local wholesale customer for your sticker business

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Written By Sam Davis Ph.D.

Sticker Crypt is the internet's premier source of free advice for artists and small business owners! 

Are you a new sticker business owner looking to get your unique designs into the hands of local customers? It can be overwhelming knowing where to begin, but it doesn’t have to be! We've developed an easy guide that shows how you can find and secure your first local wholesale customer for your sticker business. From identifying potential customers to developing relationships with them, this article gives detailed instructions on how you make sure their store is stocked with your stylish stickers. Follow along as we walk through each step of the workflow process and help turn dream clients into reality!

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Step 1: Identify your target customer

In the fascinating world of sticker creation, identifying your target customer is an essential step to successfully grabbing their attention and making your business flourish. Sticker enthusiasts who are most likely to make a purchase can come from a wide array of backgrounds, but in general, they tend to have a keen eye for creativity, personal expression, and novelty. These individuals may own or work for businesses that celebrate and promote originality, such as independent boutiques, specialty gift stores, trendy cafes, and local art galleries. Additionally, professionals in the realms of marketing, graphic design, event planning, and education might be drawn to your stickers as a means of adding a personal touch to their work or enhancing their communication with clients and colleagues. By honing in on these distinct groups of sticker aficionados, you'll be well on your way to cultivating a loyal customer base that truly appreciates the artistry and flair your stickers have to offer.

Step 2: Research local businesses

Exploring local businesses in your area to potentially carry your stickers can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. In order to curate a list of potential establishments, make use of resources such as Google, Yelp, and various social media platforms. By conducting thorough research, you can easily identify popular coffee shops, boutiques, arts and crafts stores, and bookstores near your location that might be a perfect fit for your stickers. Keep in mind the type of business and target clientele as you compile a list of possible contacts. Be sure to note the names and addresses of the businesses, as well as any other pertinent information that can assist you in reaching out to them with a personalized approach. Remember, connecting with local businesses not only expands the reach of your stickers but also helps support small businesses within your community.

Step 3: Reach out to local businesses

Engaging with local businesses is a fantastic opportunity to forge connections, expand your reach, and showcase your creative sticker designs. Reaching out to business owners or managers through email, phone calls, or in-person visits can truly make a difference in spreading the word about your artistic creations, while also providing these entrepreneurs with an exciting and unique product to offer their customers. When approaching these business leaders, be sure to present a compelling pitch that highlights the benefits of carrying your stickers, such as their high-quality materials, distinctive designs, and the potential to attract new clientele. Be genuine, passionate, and professional, illustrating just how valuable this partnership can be for both parties involved. With the right approach, persistence, and creativity, you can establish a successful network of local businesses proudly carrying your stickers and helping to grow your brand.

Step 4: Make sure you have stickers ready to go

Providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for your new wholesale customers is of utmost importance to establish a lasting relationship. One way to ensure customer satisfaction is by stocking up on a variety of high-quality stickers. This not only showcases the range of your products but also builds confidence in your brand. Just imagine the disappointment of a customer who is eager to order, only to find out their desired items are out of stock! By maintaining ample inventory, you can efficiently fulfill orders, create positive customer impressions, and solidify your place in the wholesale market. Remember, happy customers will likely become loyal clients and may even refer others to your business. So, be prepared and keep your sticker supplies plentiful and ready to go!

Step 5: Offer incentives to close the deal

If you're a sticker seller looking to boost your business, one effective strategy to consider is offering a special discount or promotion to your new customers. This approach helps in attracting potential local clients and persuades them to purchase wholesale stickers from you. For instance, you can provide enticing incentives such as free next day or rush delivery, or even a 10% discount on their initial order. Such a promotional strategy not only creates excitement around your brand but also demonstrates your commitment to delivering superior products and customer service. Ultimately, this gesture of goodwill can pave the way for long-lasting relationships with your clients, helping your sticker selling business to thrive in the ever-competitive market.

Step 6: Create a website/social media presence

In today's digital world, an online presence is vital for businesses to thrive and expand their reach. One of the most efficient ways to showcase your wholesale sticker offerings and attract local businesses is by creating a website and maintaining an active social media presence. Generating buzz on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, allows you to not only demonstrate your unique and eye-catching sticker designs but also make it easier for potential clients to find you and place orders directly. By connecting with your target audience and keeping them engaged through regular updates and promotions, you'll foster strong relationships with loyal customers and create a thriving online ecosystem for your wholesale sticker business.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, getting your stickers into local businesses doesn’t need to be an intimidating task. By following these simple steps, you can identify your target customers, research local businesses in the area, reach out with a compelling pitch, create a website/social media presence, and offer discounts and promotions. With the right knowledge and effort, you can expand your reach, help more people wherever they may be located, create relationships with business owners in your community and start increasing sales.

You may also want to consider joining our Sticker Academy to get additional tips on how to grow your business even further. If you're ready to take your sticker business to the next level – join the Sticker Academy announcement list today!

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