Starting a sunglass distribution business offers a flexible way to earn income, full-time or part-time, by supplying sunglasses to convenience stores, supermarkets, and clothing shops.
**Getting Started:**
The essential requirement is sunglasses. While display stands can enhance your presentation, they aren’t crucial initially. These stands, holding 12-50 sunglasses, can be a significant expense, so consider starting without them.
**Pricing and Profitability:**
The cost per pair of sunglasses is approximately $1, with a potential selling price of $2 to $6, contingent on location and market conditions. Factors like local climate impact sales; sunny areas allow for year-round sales. Selling prices can vary based on style and store type. Profitability depends on your time investment and sales volume. Weekly or bi-weekly visits to accounts are typical, depending on factors like population density, climate, and store size.
As a general guideline, focusing solely on sunglasses allows for visiting 20-35 stores daily on a route. Selling an average of 8 sunglasses per store at $3 each (with a $1 cost) yields a $2 profit per pair, totaling $320 from 20 stores in a single day.
To increase earnings, dedicate more days to the business or expand your product range. Daily sales of $1,000 to $2,000 or higher are achievable, with profit margins of 30% to 50%.
**Advantages of Selling Sunglasses:**
* Display stands aren’t always necessary, as many stores have their own.
* Sunglasses offer high markups and are relatively inexpensive.
* Good service fosters long-term customer relationships.
* Their compact size eliminates the need for a van or truck; a car suffices.
* Minimal storage space is required; a small area or closet can accommodate inventory.
* Shipping costs are low due to their lightweight nature.
**Expanding Your Wholesale Distribution Knowledge:**
To excel in sunglass or any wholesale distribution, understanding the nuances of wholesale is crucial, including sales strategies for diverse retail environments, exporting, importing, merchandising, and pricing. Direct Store Delivery (DSD), which involves delivering directly to stores and providing comprehensive service, is highly effective. Explore DSD principles at www.DirectStoreDelivery.com. DSD emphasizes service and merchandising, differentiating it from drop shipping or bulk deliveries.