Over three years ago we started the ‘Honey Badger Garden Gloves’ project with the goal of solving the common problem of worn out fingertips of regular gloves. Since then we have; made prototypes, raised funding, produced our first product line, and found distribution through catalogs, websites, stores and news posts. However, the simplest & most effective ways to reach people from all walks of life in an intimate setting where they can actually test the product is the trade show circuit.
One of our most dedicated distributors is a store in Delafield WI called Main Street Soap Shop, run by Glenn & Sonia Culbertson. This article is in part dedicated to them.
Glenn & Sonia actually saw our product ( Badger Digging Gloves ) while we were exhibiting at IGC ( Independent Garden Centers ) Show in August 2014. They found the product to be innovative & unique, decided to buy a few dozen pairs and see if their clients would like the product as well. Since then we’ve been receiving orders from Glenn on a steady basis.
I received a few emails on day from some of my existing customers saying that they heard about our product on the radio. When I heard the radio show recording, it was Glenn calling in during a gardening show about innovative gardening gifts.
Although it was a brief part of the show it was effective & demonstrates the level of commitment from distributers that is vitally necessary in order to introduce a new product into any marketplace, – Particularly when you’re a start-up on a shoe string budget like us.
I don’t want to downplay the roll of social media in today’s constantly changing retail landscape, but -Simply put, ‘brand awareness’ is a crucial point in gaining traction in the marketplace. It introduces the consumer to the product, the retailers to the product, other distributors notice and momentum is generated. No Doubt that with distributors like Main Street Soap Shop & other committed Representatives & Distributors – Honey Badger Garden Gloves is poised for a productive year. – Much thanks to all –
Happy Gardening ~
Aaron Ohan