Developing a concept for your product is useless if it cannot be properly produced. Appropriately manufacturing your clothing items necessitates an understanding of your design, the materials, and your budget. For many start-ups attempting to transform their ideas and prototypes into palpable product, you will require the assistance of a manufacturing partner, particularly if you want to produce in bulk. Here are a few tips on what you must consider when you are looking for a partner to manufacture your product.
Preparation for Manufacturing
Prior to hiring a manufacturer to start generating your product, you must first follow a few initial steps:
1. Market Research
Do not manufacture the product if customers are not going to purchase it. Scrutinize competitors in your industry and have an understanding of how your product brings extra value to your customer base. If you are making a worse version than the competitor’s product, chances are slim that you will be successful.
2. Licensing
You must decide on whether you want to generate and sell your product on your own or license the concept to a company that has the resources and expertise for handling it. Licensing is basically like renting your concept. The agency handles everything, from manufacturing, marketing of the product, distribution, and you get paid royalties based on the sales. Usually with US clothing manufacturers like these, no upfront investment is needed. Many large corporations license concepts, and the same is done by designated licensing agencies.
3. Building And Testing Your Prototype
If you decide on going solo, you will require a sample of prototype to ensure the clothing can be made according to your specifications in a factory. You can make it yourself, if possible. However, it could take several iterations and many months to finish.
4. Protecting Your Intellectual Property
It is worth protecting your intellectual property. This entails registering for a patent, copyrighting your work, or buying the trademark.
The process of finding the right manufacturer is a lot easier if these boxes are ticked. Once you have found the answers to these questions, you are ready to start bringing your creation to life.
Qualities To Look For In A Manufacturer
When looking for a factory or partner to manufacture your clothing items, it is essential to look for the following qualities, according to experts:
- Demonstration Of Expertise And Knowledge
You want to work alongside a partner that can answer all your questions and that can efficiently guide you through the entire process. If you are making clothing items, you want the factory to offer you with advice on sourcing the best materials.
- Technical Abilities
The factory must have the capacity for producing items that are equal to your own. This will ensure that they have the right understanding of your market and what you need to gain success.
- A Good Reputation
Are they used to working with major retailers and brands? Are there any regulatory infractions or regulatory fines? What is the turnover rate? This is key to finding a partner that you can trust.