Title: Super-vendor: The Optimal Sourcing Strategy
Today’s uncertain retail environment has many brands looking for a “super-vendor” that can manage segments of their business, from design through delivery. Shop-Eat-Surf Industry Insight talked with Steve Wegner, Principal at GMPC, Gary Mandel Promotional Concepts, to learn more about the benefits of working with this new category of manufacturer.
We are hearing the term “super-vendor” a lot in sourcing discussions. Would you please define super-vendor?
Steve Wegner: Super-vendors have a broad multi-category, multi-product, multi-country supply chain, and an intimate knowledge of key product categories. They have in-house resources providing trends, design, development and artwork. They are able to provide trade financing. Additionally and most critically, they have a commitment to understanding individual customer needs to create a custom-fit supply chain.
What capabilities make GMPC a super-vendor for accessories and apparel?
Steve Wegner: GMPC manages product development from design through graphics, in multiple product categories covering both apparel and accessories. We offer trend intelligence built from both soft and hard data. We handle sourcing and compliance management, as well as production management, including in-house QC and testing.
GMPC’s QuickStrike and rapid replenishment programs enable companies to stay nimble and responsive with evolving consumer tastes through offshore and domestic options. GMPC handles all the logistics: from FOB FCL and multi-factory consolidation at origin, including ship by store and drop-ship ecommerce.
How does GMPC help brands grow?
Steve Wegner: GMPC has both leverage and expertise, we manufacture millions of units annually in each of our key categories. Our domestic design and development teams work with our clients to create the best products for their brand.
In addition, GMPC has extensive experience in social, environmental and product compliance testing. All in-line and final QC is performed by an in-house team with 30+ years of experience in accessory and apparel manufacturing.
To facilitate communication, GMPC has multi-lingual teams with Chinese speakers in the U.S., and English speakers in China. We also maintain a staff of approximately 30 employees in Shanghai for round-the-clock responsiveness.
All of these tools help us provide our clients with a solution for extending their brand, growing their business, and creating brand-enhancing accessories.
Visit https://www.gmpc.com/ for more information on GMPC
