How to Choose an International Distributor
Want to share your brand with the world? You need a well-researched strategy for that. A key element in your strategy is selecting an international distributor. Here’s how you do it.
Choosing a Qualified International Distributor
Distributors are not product delivery persons— they are your brand representation, they are your relationship cultivators, they are your fulfillment facilitators.
Distributors, while independent, represent your brand abroad. They will handle technical issues and provide support from export to delivery.
Research your options and choose wisely. The perfect international distribution strategy can be derailed by a poor distributor.
Finding a reputable and capable distribution firm can take a lot of time and money, but if you choose wisely, your revenues will increase while your stress decreases.
Creating a Call for International Distributors
To begin the candidate pooling process, you should be prepared with a product offering document that briefly outlines your product and the benefits in distributing it.
Include how the product will produce profit for the distributor—this is a quid pro quo relationship, you know…
Upon response, you will begin your distributor selection process.
You will want to carefully vet your prospects because you will need to develop a strong working relationship with this distributor to ensure mutually beneficial outcomes.
Evaluating International Distributors
- Research the distributor’s reputation, experience and relationships. Don’t be shy—ask for references, too.
- Determine minimum inventory requirements so you can ascertain capacity.
- Get an outline of what they require from you to begin distributing. If it is a checklist alongside a solid presentation, you might want to place them on the ‘consider’ file.
- Check the competition. The distributors standing against its opponents is telling on how capable and successful they really are.
How to Choose a Seasoned International Distributor:
- Ensure your distributor can maintain adequate stock
- Certify that your distributor has training programs in place that collaborates with the manufacturer
- Confirm your distributor has staff trained in sales
- Verify your distributor has presence and experience in your targeted markets
- A distributor that offers to handle some of the red tape in foreign markets is an indicator they have procured strong local relationships and possess the resources to make your business life simpler and your bottom line bigger.
Once you select your international distributor, be prepared to share your company’s visions, objectives and strategies so your distributor can become an informed partner in success.
Super Health Center is prepared to make that partnership with you today. Nearly 20 years in the industry with a powerful network worldwide to meet your distribution needs, we don’t just sell your product, we offer the full package: SHC offers a comprehensive package that helps build your brand and launch it abroad while tackling barriers and legalities so you don’t have to.
Reach out today and start sharing your brand with the world.