Unique Handknit Wear

when contacting retailers, I would suggest by phone. However, you may want to send an introduction e-mail before calling them. You can then following up with them a day or two after you send the e-mail to confirm that they received the e-mail and attempt to get a conversation started. If they are a big retailer, your primary goal is to convince them to have a face to face meeting with you so that you can show them your samples. I think face to face is always best in regards to making an impression and selling product. Using e-mail is OK, after you have a relation with the buyer. For now, you need to get in front of the potential buyers. The rest is salesmanship... Good luck.

In response to the e-mail you sent me:

You may want to purchase a salesman guide (list of retailers and buyer contact details). I have a list of stores on Apparel Search (but I do not list buyer names etc.). That is a free method which you can try from www.ApparelSearch.com/Retail.htm However, my list is not as good as it could be or it should be.. The lists you pay for I think are actually better resources. The negative issue is that they cost money.. You can find some at http://www.apparelsearch.com/salesman_buyers_guide.htm

Regarding finding a specific store for your product, it will depend on the product you are selling and the target market you are trying to reach. An obvious goal is to sell to buyers that can purchase in large quantity. However, that is easier said then done. You will most likely have to start small and work your way into the business. However, you should NOT be discouraged from contacting the "big" retailers. If you present a good product and have a good business plan, it is possible to hit the ground running. Anyway, my suggestion is to view stores online and see what stores you think would benefit from your product. If you are confident that you can benefit the retailer, your next step is to contact them and convince them. Just remember, the worst thing that they can do is say no. With that said, you may want to practice your sales technique with smaller retailers first. You do not want to make a bad first impression with the big guys. You may not get a second chance...

Sorry, I can not give you a specific store to contact. Good luck.