Retailing

Updated December 1, 2019 @ 11:02 am

 

• retailing your work means that the craftsperson is selling directly to the end user/consumer
• if an artisan is selling work through a sales outlet like a store, craft shop or gallery (which they do not own), it is considered wholesaling

Sales models

• selling directly to public
  • your own store or studio
  • trade shows
  • markets/craft fairs
  • Online
  • Other avenues like mail-order, door to door

 

Upsides of retailing your own work

• control over all aspects of the selling process
• direct contact to build relationships with clients
• no or limited commissions owing = more profit potential
• increased reach through online and other structures
• ability to respond quickly to demand or opportunity

 

Negatives

• live market is limited to those people you can get face to face with
• hours can be long and tiring with little time off possible
• lack of control over traffic in some venues
• production time can be difficult to manage with public present
• growth potential can be limited by so many other demands

 

Pricing

• when retailing your own work, prices need to reflect future retail possibilities
• some flexibility in pricing is possible based on inventory

 

Other issues

• artisans are wholly responsible for their own accounting/taxation
• must maintain a safe, clean, insured workplace if public are welcome
• advertising and marketing may fall solely on artist
• online interactions can be less satisfying/secure
• building of brand may be a little easier and more focused
• generally this is a single sales point model
• revenue flow is directly tied to artisans life rhythm