The Power of Custom & Local Products
In the dynamic world of retail, independent retailers have a unique advantage—one that taps into the essence of personalization and community connection. The charm of custom, localized, and name-drop products is not just a trend; it's a strategic move that aligns seamlessly with the distinctive nature of independent retail. Custom products allow retailers to curate offerings that resonate with their specific customer base. Understanding the local culture, preferences, and trends enables independent retailers to create a product mix that reflects the unique identity of their community and customers. Let's explore why incorporating these products into your assortment can be a game-changer, discover well-known brands that make customization a breeze, and find inspiration from independent retailers that are incorporating these products into their assortments.
5 Reasons to Incorporate Custom Products into Your Assortments
Uniqueness Attracts & Retains Customers
Uniqueness is your secret weapon. By stocking custom products, you distinguish your store from competitors. Shoppers, drawn to the allure of the uncommon, not only remember their shopping experience but are also compelled to return. The exclusivity of these products becomes a powerful magnet for customer retention, fostering loyalty and turning one-time buyers into repeat customers.
Community Engagement
Choosing to incorporate custom products isn't just about transactions, it's about building connections. By offering products that are tailored to the tastes and preferences of your local community, you become an integral part of the neighborhood. The act of curating custom items fosters a sense of community engagement, where your store isn't just a place to shop but a hub that reflects and contributes to the unique identity of the local area.
Tapping into the “Shop Local” Movement
By offering custom products in your independent retail store, you're not just providing unique items; you are actively participating in the "Shop Local" movement that resonates deeply with community members. These specialized offerings serve as tangible reminders of the importance of supporting local establishments. As customers engage with custom products uniquely tied to their community, they are prompted to reflect on the importance of their purchasing decisions.
Tailored to Customer Preferences
for Both Tourists and Locals
Customization isn't a one-size-fits-all concept. It's about tailoring your offerings to the specific tastes of your diverse customer base, be it the locals or the tourists. For locals, it's a chance to find products that resonate with their community and lifestyle. For tourists, it's an opportunity to take home a piece of the local culture. By understanding and catering to these diverse preferences, you create a shopping experience that speaks directly to each customer, ensuring that your store remains their go-to destination.
“Independent retailers can stand out by providing a curated selection that caters to the specific tastes and preferences of their local customer base.”
- Daniel Seehoff, Sophistiplate Co-Founder & CEO
Dollars in the Details
While it might seem like sprinkling in a bit of magic on your shelves, the reality is that customization can be a robust revenue booster. The uniqueness of custom offerings creates a niche market where customers are not just buying a product, they are investing in a personalized experience. This translates to higher perceived value, enabling independent retailers to achieve premium prices. Moreover, the willingness of customers to pay a bit extra for something special becomes the fairy dust that enhances profit margins. So, not only are you delighting customers with unique finds, but you're also improving your bottom line.
Customization Explored Through Top Brands
In the gift and home industry, several well-known brands have embraced the trend of customization. Brands like Beatriz Ball, Caspari, Corkcicle, Ella B, Julie + Joe, and Maple Leaf at Home have successfully integrated custom, local, and name drop options into their product lines, tapping into consumer preferences for uniqueness.
Your Local Sales Rep is Your Direct Link to Custom/Local Products
To access custom products from these brands, place your orders through your local Ivystone sales rep(s).
If you're unsure who is your local rep, use our Find A Rep tool, enter your zip code, and click on the rep pictures to identify the lines represented by each sales rep.
Beatriz Ball
Engraving makes any present look extra special.
Caspari
Helping customers customize their events.
Corkcicle
From coffee to cocktails, Corkcicle has the perfect drinkware solution for every occasion.
Ella B Candles
Design a candle just for your store.
Julie + Joe
An array of playful and fun designs - all of which can be customized with ease.
Maple Leaf
Custom wood cutting boards add a personal touch to any kitchen.
“When customers find unique products in a store, they are more likely to develop a sense of loyalty."
- Daniel Seehoff, Sophistiplate Co-Founder & CEO
Featured Retailers
Let's turn the spotlight on independent retailers who have seamlessly incorporated custom, localized, and name-drop products into their offerings. In short Q&A sessions with each of these retailers, we learned what inspired them to stock custom, what criteria they consider when selecting custom products, and what sets successful custom or local products apart from others.
Monogram Ladies
Located: Austin, TX
@monogramladyatx
Q: What inspired you to stock custom or localized products in your store?
We love being able to customize our Ella B candles to incorporate local Austin flare. As a local ATX business for over 40 years, we have built a lot of meaningful connections with our customers that love Austin just like we do!
Q: What criteria do you consider when selecting these products?
We always try to have something for everyone and Ella B makes that easy for us.
Q: In your experience, what sets successful custom or localized products apart from others?
Most of the time, people are able to make deeper connections to custom/localized products. This makes for the perfect, meaningful gift!
Ambrosia Cafe
Located: Barrington, IL
@ambrosiaeuro
Q: What inspired you to stock custom or localized products in your store?
Our inspiration to stock custom and localized products stems from our deep appreciation for community and the loyalty of our customers. It's essential for us to offer merchandise that reflects our identity within the community, allowing our fantastic customers to proudly represent us. Additionally, we are committed to contributing to sustainability by providing products like reusable cups. It's part of our ongoing effort to offer items that resonate with our values and make a positive impact.
Q: What criteria do you consider when selecting these products?
When selecting these products we like to think seasonally, and base color & design on that. For example, fall & winter we will go heavier on classics for Christmas/holiday gifts, and use fall/winter colors that feel nostalgic. For spring and summer, we like to be bright & fun! We use our business color guide to stay on brand.
Q: In your experience, what sets successful custom or localized products apart from others?
Successful custom or localized products, in our experience, hinge on authenticity and uniqueness. To set ourselves apart, we focus on crafting items that genuinely excite our customers. This starts by listening to our employees, our brand ambassadors, and valuing their opinions. We also gather input directly from our customers to understand their preferences. Collaborating with our dedicated representative, Ruth, we leverage the insights from our team and customers. Ruth's expertise enhances our decision-making process. However, the ultimate decisions are guided by my intuition to maintain authenticity. By combining perspectives from our team, customer input, and Ruth's expertise, we create products that align with our brand identity and resonate with those supporting us.
The Cottage
Located: Severna Park, MD
@shopthecottage
Q: What inspired you to stock custom or localized products in your store?
The inspiration behind stocking custom and localized products lies in the ability to offer unique items tailored specifically to our customer base. Custom designs allow us to create products that resonate uniquely with our audience.
Q: What criteria do you consider when selecting these products?
When selecting these products, we prioritize color, font, and graphics. The right combination enhances the product, making it more engaging and enjoyable.
Q: In your experience, what sets successful custom or localized products apart from others?
Successful custom or localized products stand out through their quality, price point, and the uniqueness of their messaging. Ensuring that the product aligns with the interests of our local customers is also a key factor in their success.
CoCo & Blu
Located: Arlington Heights, IL
@cocoandblucafe
Q: What inspired you to stock custom or localized products in your store?
I stock custom localized products in my store, because our cafe, CoCo&Blu is an experience. Carrying custom retail products help to connect with the customer when they are away from the cafe. It also helps to market the business as other people see the custom products while they are being used in the community. Just the other day I had a couple purchase a custom 24 oz corckicle cold cup. I stopped and talked to them and they said they had to buy it. They met at CoCo&Blu and were married the night before.
Q: What criteria do you consider when selecting these products?
In addition to the cafe I also own and operate a flower and gift shop, The Eiffel Flower. I do carry a couple of products that are signature scents that people can give for gifts. Again this helps connect with the customer when they are away from the shop and may remind them to stop in for another visit. We always have new merchandise.
Q: In your experience, what sets successful custom or localized products apart from others?
When selecting products for the cafe and for the gift shop I focus on quality. What would I personally buy and what sets us apart from the chain restaurants and big box stores.
Incorporating custom products into your assortments is more than a strategic move; it's a commitment to creating a retail experience that is as unique as the products you offer. It's about fostering connections, contributing to your community growth, and providing a shopping haven where your customers, whether local or visiting, find something special every time they step through your doors.
