We know the goal when making merch is, obviously, to sell it. Well, sometimes that's easier said than done, right?
In this blog, we've put together 5 simple tips to help ensure your next merch run is a successful one, whether that be for your new fashion brand, or for your latest line of business-related merchandise.
1. Understand Your Audience
Probably the most important point, but you'd be surprised to learn that many people skip the research part entirely, and jump straight into making products they think will work.
Take time to research and thoroughly understand your target audience. Think about their preferences and interests. Are they more likely to buy a more niche product, such as an embroidered duffel bag, or will a more generalized product like a printed t-shirt do the trick?
Also take a look at what your competitors are offering, and see what products do well with customers. We're not saying you should copy and paste, but there's no harm in taking some inspiration from the world around you, and seeing what does well with a similar audience.
Make use of social media to conduct polls and get customer feedback. The voice of your existing customers is your best resource!
2. Care About Quality
This may sound like an obvious one, but remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best. Cutting corners and trying to spend as little as possible on your merch will result in poor product quality, and leave a bad taste in your customers' mouths.
If you do have a low budget, opt for smaller order quantities, low colour-count screen printed designs, or consider doing pre-orders first.
Speak to your manufacturer and see what garments and branding methods they'd recommend to produce high-quality pieces.
3. Make it Stand Out
Ask yourself, what differentiates your merch from your competitor's? Is it your designs, use of colours, or garment choice?
If you're not the most creative person out there, consider collaborating with other artists or designers to create unique and eye-catching designs.
Make sure whatever you create aligns with your brand - you want people to se the merch in real life and recognize that it's your brand.
4. Diversify
While the classic screen printed t-shirt is always a winner and the most popular choice when it comes to making merch, consider what other products you can offer to cater to a wider audience.
Accessories like enamel pins, stickers and patches are great items for people to collect, and are a more affordable option for customers.
Another idea is to do seasonal drops, like hoodies & beanies in winter, for example.
5. Engage, Reward & Personalise
These days, community is king. Think about how you can reward customers and build community on your social platforms.
Whether it's a personalised note in their order, a freebie, discount or referral incentive, this will keep customers coming back for more. People are also more willing to share their purchases on social media when they see that your brand has gone the extra mile.
At the end of the day, the merch you make should reflect who you are as a brand or business, while adding value to your customers.
If you'd like to learn more about making your own merch, pop us a mail and let's chat!
The Printing Network offers screen printing, embroidery and DTG printing on a range of different clothing items and accessories. Plus, we have free UK delivery on all orders!
Or fill out a contact form here.
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