Scaling in Fair Trade Strategies for Growth

Intro Mata Traders What we’re discussing today

Product Mix It must sell – Something that people want at the right price point Don’t do the same thing that someone else is doing – Unless you’re selling it to a different market Test the Market – Start small – Direct to retail – Focus groups Stick with what works

Sales Make Sales the #1 Priority – Sell anyway you can – Sales cures all Trade Shows – NYNOW (Artisan Resource) – Say hi to everyone – Conversation starter – Good booth display

Sourcing Relationships with our producer organizations – Willing to start small and grow with us – Built trust and personal relationships – Deal with challenges together and learned from them Write back! Respond to buyer inquiries within 48 hours Adding new suppliers – Don’t overextend

Finance Anticipate your cash flow, understand your numbers, and maintain financial discipline Know your funding options – Shared Interest Funded growth of purchase orders

Staffing You need to hire people to grow Don’t hire until it’s necessary Get people when you really need them

Value Add Design – A unique aesthetic Manufacturing – Fair Trade/Handmade Marketing – Branding and our next step

Thank You Questions and comments