how do I sell a line of children bicycle helmets?

Question

I have an exclusive license to sell a line of uniquely designed and safe children bicycle helmets. Would like to now what is the best approach or channel to distribute these helmets. Any information appreciated.

Answer 1

First, if you want to sell in the U.S. the helmets must meet government safety rules. Contact the Consumer Product Safety Commission and make sure the helmets have met their requirements.

Second, most people will not buy a helmet unless it is ANSI or Snell approved. If your helmet is not, it will cost $$$ for the testing if you choose to have this certification.

Third, you will want to have excellent insurance coverage. Since you are new to this particular item the insurance companies will charge you top dollar until you get "experience".

Finally, you'll need to start knocking on doors and providing samples to dealers and distributors as well as attending safety and bicycle shows. Alternately, you might be able to talk a few local stores into carrying them on consignment until you get a name for yourself.

Yes, it is a long and expensive process, but if it was cheap and easy everyone would do it.

Answer 2

Purchase a mailing list of Bicycle Shops, both independent and chains. Also add in any store which carries bicycles (Walmart, KMart, Sears, TArget etc). Make up a flyer or brochure about the helmet and send to each of the dealers to the attention of the Bicycle Purchasing Agent. Selling on bulk to bicycle shops makes more sense than dealing with schools or PTA's.

Answer 3

Hi ppchen, I would try selling your line of kids helmets on Ebay to start and see how they sell there. I would also approach a few of the local bike shops in your area and see if they would display and sell your helmets on consignment. The only real problem I see is liability with your helmets. Most bike shops will only accept helmets with a CPSC or ASTM sticker affixed to the helmets. This assures the consumer the helmet meets the minimum crash requirement standards. Good luck selling your kids helmets!

Answer 4

I would visit with the PTA presidents and principals of the local elementary schools and put on a "safety clinic" with the local police that ride bicycles. The first thing is to get your point of safety across with a bookmark which happens to have your logo, tag line, phone number, and discounted price on it....I was a PTA president and vendors that approached me were always welcomed if they had a safety issue that could be discussed with a very suttle sales pitch woven into the deal. Enticing kids gets parents to buy...Look at McDonald's or Sally Foster wrapping paper....

Answer 5

Make em' appealing to your audience. Make em' kid friendly. Make their appearance kid friendly,,,,,,,, Find an outlet using sites like "Toys R Us", or "Toys - n - More",,,,,,, or check out your local library listings of whats available in your area.
Good Luck.