Expansion Tips
How to attract international retailers to your brand
See how to attract international retailers to your fashion brand and grow your business globally with practical tips.
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Are you looking to grow your fashion brand internationally? A great way to grow your fashion brand to new heights is by going global and selling to international retailers and customers. Whilst the idea of leaving the security of your home market may seem daunting, it will be a worthwhile challenge.
Here are the best ways to raise your brand’s profile and start attracting international retailers.
Perform market research on your target customers
Don’t assume that customers in the international market will share the same traits as those in your home market. Every market is different, so it’s important to carry out research about the target country, its culture, customers’ shopping habits and where people buy their clothes and accessories. This will help you identify which stores and retailers you want to target and how to connect with them in the best way possible.
1- Support international payment options
If you are looking at reaching international retailers then you will need to cater to their needs, especially when it comes to payments. Offer a way for international buyers to pay in their own currency and, if possible, with popular payment methods in their region.
2- Offer worldwide shipping
You won’t attract any international buyers if you cannot ship your collections to them! Offering worldwide shipping is vital for fashion brands looking to go global.
3- Localise all of your content
No retailer will even consider buying your collections if they cannot understand what you’re selling. Avoid language barriers by translating all buyer-facing brand content, such as your website, product catalogues, price lists, brochures and sales pitches.
You should also remember to bear in mind any small language differences. For example, in the US, the thick top worn in winter is called a sweater, whereas if you are marketing to the UK, you should call it a jumper.
4- Provide excellent customer service
Make sure you provide a great experience for buyers before, during and after the sales process. Being available to answer questions and offering a clear and kind service can make or break a sale. It can also affect their potential to become a repeat buyer. You should make sure that someone in your team is available to cater to the international buyers’ time zones.
5- Showcase reviews like social proof
Retailers are more likely to buy from your brand if they see proof that end-customers are buying, using and speaking highly of your clothes or accessories. It is therefore a good idea to showcase reviews from previous customers talking about how much they love your brand.
As you start to establish your brand in a foreign market, you can gather these reviews from customers in the local audience.
6- Offer discounts and promotions
Enticing offers are an effective way to attract new buyers. For example, you could launch exclusive discounts for new buyers or offer free shipping when buyers hit a minimum order amount.
7- Invest in a B2B digital platform
Online B2B platforms have an existing international presence and therefore allow you to connect with global retailers. For example, when you register your brand with BLANC you will have over 20,000 buyers at your fingertips. Leverage the platform’s network, connections and marketing efforts to sell your products to international buyers.
BLANC can help you sell your brand to international retailers. Our powerful sales tool is used by fashion brands all over the world. We support their wholesale business and help in their global expansion as their wholesale management solution. Get in touch with BLANC and let us show you how our B2B digital platform can provide you with cutting-edge tools to wow international buyers.