How to Sell Products to Stores – Top Ten Tips for Success!
Selling your product to retail stores can be a game-changer for your business. Getting your product onto store shelves means reaching a larger audience, increasing sales, and growing your brand. However, the process can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start.
At Get Into Retail, we specialize in helping businesses like yours break into major retailers. Our expert team guides you through every step of the process—from product preparation to pitching to buyers.
In this blog, we will cover the top 10 tips to help you successfully sell your product to stores. By following these strategies, and with the support of Get Into Retail, you can increase your chances of securing retail partnerships.
1. Retail Buyers Are Actively Looking for New Products
Many business owners assume that getting into retail is nearly impossible, but the truth is that retail buyers need new and innovative products to keep their shelves stocked with exciting offerings. Major retailers face intense competition, and they constantly seek new products to attract customers.
This is the best time to introduce your product to retailers! However, you must ensure that your product is retail-ready. At Get Into Retail, we help businesses refine their products to meet buyer expectations and stand out in the marketplace.
2. You Don’t Have to Be a Big Company to Sell to Retailers
Many small businesses hesitate to approach large retailers, thinking they need a well-established brand. But the reality is that buyers care more about the product’s potential than the size of the company.
If your product can generate sales, solve a problem, or offer something unique, retailers will be interested. The key is being prepared with the right pricing, logistics, and presentation. This is where Get Into Retail can assist—we help small businesses create professional pitches and streamline operations to meet retailer requirements.
3. Packaging Is Critical to Your Success
Packaging plays a crucial role in whether your product sells in a retail environment. When customers walk into a store, they don’t see the product first; they see the packaging.
Your packaging must be:
✔ Attractive – It should catch the customer's eye.
✔ Informative – Clearly communicate the product’s benefits.
✔ Retail-ready – Meet industry standards for size, durability, and labeling.
Retail buyers pay close attention to packaging because they know it directly impacts sales. At Get Into Retail, we help businesses optimize their packaging for maximum impact in stores.
4. Research the Retailer Before Pitching
Before approaching a retailer, you need to understand their product selection, pricing, and customer base. The easiest way to do this is by visiting stores and analyzing competitor products.
Ask yourself:
- What products are similar to mine?
- How are they priced?
- What type of packaging do they use?
- What promotions or marketing materials are present?
By doing your homework, you’ll have a better understanding of what retailers are looking for, and you can tailor your pitch accordingly. Need help with competitor research? Get Into Retail can provide valuable insights to strengthen your approach.
5. Avoid Generic Vendor Applications – Contact Buyers Directly
Most retailers have online vendor application forms, but filling out these forms is not the best way to get noticed. These applications are reviewed by gatekeepers who receive thousands of submissions.
Instead, contact buyers directly. Professional retail consultants (like our team at Get Into Retail) specialize in helping businesses connect with the right buyers, ensuring your product gets the attention it deserves.
6. Find the Right Buyer for Your Product
Not all buyers handle the same types of products. A retail store will have different buyers for different product categories—such as home goods, electronics, beauty, or food.
To find the right buyer:
- Research company directories.
- Network at trade shows.
- Use professional buyer databases.
At Get Into Retail, we have direct connections with buyers across multiple industries. We can help you identify the correct buyer and make an introduction.
7. Build Relationships with Assistant Buyers
Many product sellers overlook assistant buyers, assuming they have little decision-making power. However, assistant buyers often become full buyers in the future.
By building relationships early, you can increase your chances of securing a deal when they move up in the company. Being professional, friendly, and helpful can go a long way.
At Get Into Retail, we guide you on how to nurture these connections to ensure long-term success.
8. Take Advantage of Vendor Days
Many retailers hold Vendor Days, where they invite potential suppliers to pitch their products in person. This is an excellent opportunity to meet buyers face-to-face and make a strong impression.
How do you secure a spot?
- Call the retailer’s assistant buyer and ask about Vendor Days.
- Be prepared with a compelling pitch and retail-ready product.
- Bring marketing materials, pricing sheets, and product samples.
At Get Into Retail, we help businesses prepare for Vendor Days with customized pitch training and presentation strategies.
9. Selling to Retail is a Numbers Game
Rejection is a normal part of the process. You may need to contact multiple buyers before receiving a “yes.” The key is persistence and strategy.
Many successful brands faced multiple rejections before landing a major retail deal. It only takes one “yes” to transform your business.
If you need help with outreach, follow-ups, or crafting a compelling pitch, Get Into Retail can handle the process for you, increasing your chances of success.
10. Never Give Up – Success Takes Time
Selling your product to retail stores is not an overnight process. It takes time, effort, and a well-thought-out strategy. Many entrepreneurs give up too soon—but those who stay persistent see results.
At Get Into Retail, we believe that every product has the potential to succeed with the right approach. If you’re serious about getting your product into stores, we’re here to help.
Ready to Get Your Product into Retail Stores? Contact Us Today!
Breaking into retail can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Get Into Retail specializes in helping businesses:
✅ Find the right buyers
✅ Perfect their pitch
✅ Optimize packaging
✅ Secure retail partnerships