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Should I hire a firm to help me market my product to big stores like Borders and Barnes and Noble?
The product is an accessory for a personal journal. Last year I went to the Stationery Show in NYC and talked to about 15 manufacturers and distributors who do business with these large chains and they all felt that it was a product that would sell well. The challenge is to get in with one of the distributors who currently does business with Borders and Barnes and Noble.

Asked by idesign kay
Posted: Thursday, August 16, 2007  |  Found in Sales & Marketing


More answers by Kim T. Gordon
Answer by Kim T. Gordon
Yes, I suggest you find a rep firm that has established relationships with these and other major retailers.  Not only will they help you get your product into the stores, they can be invaluable when it comes to providing guidance about everything from pricing to packaging.  Bear in mind that you'll need to pitch your product to several good potential representative firms and it may take you a while to find one willing to help that will give you, a new manufacturer, the attention you deserve.  But hang in there until you find just the right match.
Kim Gordon is the owner of National Marketing Federation and is a multifaceted marketing expert, speaker, author and media spokesperson. Her latest book is Maximum Marketing, Minimum Dollars.


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