What It's Like To Be... A Toy Distributor
Dec 31, 2024
Alan Bass, a third-generation distributor at Stevens International, shares insights from his family's toy and hobby business. He discusses the intricate logistics of forecasting demand for 40,000 products and overcoming customs challenges. Discover why small shops rely on distributors instead of direct orders from factories. Alan reflects on nostalgic moments when he realized his childhood toys were marketing samples, along with the importance of relationships built over generations in the industry. He also touches on adaptations made during the pandemic.
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Distributor Role
- Distributors like Alan Bass serve smaller stores unable to buy large quantities directly from manufacturers.
- They offer a wider variety of products in smaller quantities, increasing profitability for these stores.
Inventory Management
- Order smaller quantities of products regularly instead of placing large, infrequent orders.
- This adaptable approach helps manage inventory levels, respond to market fluctuations, and avoid excess stock.
Customs Troubles
- Alan Bass recounts instances of random customs inspections delaying shipments by weeks and incurring unexpected costs.
- One time, a shipment was held up due to missing "Made in Taiwan" labels, highlighting the unpredictable nature of these inspections.