Last Updated on February 16, 2023 by Kimberlee Johnson
Are you seeking an easy way to get your hands on the newest and most cutting-edge products? Subscription boxes may be the thing for you.
You can get various products delivered to your door each month with subscription boxes. But how do subscription boxes get their products?
You may think that subscription boxes are filled with random items, but the truth is that it takes a lot of work to pick the perfect products for each month’s box.
With that in mind, we’ll uncover the secrets behind how subscription boxes get their products and choose items their customers will love.
How Do Subscription Box Companies Obtain Their Products?
Typically, subscription box companies partner with brands and retailers to receive exclusive deals and items to include in their boxes.
Many will only include items from these partners, while others may consist of items from a broader range of sources.
“No matter what, people grow. If you chose not to grow, you’re staying in a small box with a small mindset. People who win go outside of that box. It’s very simple when you look at it.
– Kevin Hart, American Comedian
On one side, some subscription box companies make their products, often partnering with artisans or other small businesses to create unique items for their boxes.
In some cases, they may also purchase bulk items directly from manufacturers or wholesalers.
This is often a more cost-effective way to include items in the boxes, allowing the companies to offer a wider variety of products.
Additionally, subscription box companies may receive customer items in exchange for discounts or free boxes.
But why do so many people buy subscription boxes?
8 Places To Source Products For Subscription Boxes
1. eBay
eBay is home to a wide variety of new and used items that can be used to fill subscription boxes.
Its selection is vast and ever-growing, so it’s easy to find products that fit the theme of any subscription box.
Plus, eBay’s competitive bidding process and seller ratings make it easy to find products at competitive prices and from reliable sellers.
Also, eBay [1] offers various shipping options, so it’s easy to get the items to their destination quickly and safely.
2. Etsy Store
Etsy is an online platform marketplace where people can buy and sell handcrafted items, vintage wares, and one-of-a-kind items.
It is a great place to source products for subscription boxes because of its large selection of handmade goods and vintage items.
On top of that, Etsy is home to millions of sellers worldwide, and it is easy to find unique and interesting items for any type of subscription box.
The site has a wide variety of categories to choose from, so you can find items that fit the theme or interests of your box.
And the sellers on Etsy are often willing to work with you to create custom items for your subscription boxes.
This can be a great way to make your boxes stand out and add a personal touch.
Lastly, the prices on Etsy are usually very competitive so you can find great deals on products for your subscription boxes.
But how to sell your subscription boxes on Etsy?
3. Amazon
Amazon’s collection is unmatched when it comes to sourcing merchandise for subscription box companies.
From traditional items like books and electronics to unique, hard-to-find items, Amazon has it all.
With reasonable, reliable shipping and competitive prices, Amazon [2] is the perfect place to find items for subscription boxes.
4. Local Craft Stores
Local craft stores can be an excellent resource for sourcing products for subscription boxes.
They offer a variety of materials, tools, and supplies that can help to create unique and interesting items for the box.
For example, a craft store may carry a variety of fabrics, ribbons, and buttons that can be used to create custom jewelry or other craft items.
Plus, they often have a selection of tools such as scissors, glue guns, and paintbrushes that can help to create a one-of-a-kind item for the box.
Finally, local craft stores inspire creative ideas, as they often showcase the work made by local artisans and other crafters.
5. Trade Fairs
Trade Fairs offer an opportunity to meet with vendors and manufacturers in person and view various products in one convenient location.
You can discuss product specifications, costs, and delivery times at a trade fair with different vendors, making it easier to find the right product at the right price.
Besides, attending a trade fair can give you an idea of what is trending in the industry so that you can incorporate popular items into your subscription boxes.
6. Small Businesses
Small businesses often specialize in creating unique and innovative products that bring subscribers value.
By sourcing products from small businesses, subscription box companies can ensure they are offering their subscribers something truly special.
These small businesses also have the added benefit of being able to provide custom orders and design ideas.
It means they can create subscription boxes with products perfectly tailored to their subscribers’ needs.
And small businesses are more flexible in pricing and delivery schedules compared to large and notable companies.
Hence, this makes them an ideal choice for businesses looking to create subscription boxes that offer great value for their customers.
7. Online Retailers
With the accessibility of online stores, it is easy to find various items that can be used to create unique subscription boxes.
Online retailers can provide clothing, accessories, home goods, gadgets, stationery, and more.
It is possible to find items within any budget and have them shipped quickly and efficiently.
Aside from that, many online retailers have bulk discounts or offer loyalty programs, making them even more attractive for subscription boxes.
Also Read: How Do I Give Someone A Netflix Subscription As A Gift?
8. Wholesale Suppliers
Wholesale suppliers are companies that purchase products in bulk from manufacturers and then resell them in smaller quantities at a lower price.
This means that subscription box owners can purchase products in bulk at a discounted price and use them to fill their boxes with quality items at a lower cost.
Besides, these suppliers often have a wide variety of products available, so it’s easy to find the perfect items to help make subscription boxes even more enticing to customers.
FAQs
Is the market for subscription boxes oversaturated?
With the growing popularity of subscription boxes, there is an increasing concern that the market may be oversaturated.
Companies offering subscription boxes may need to differentiate their offerings to stand out from the competition in an oversaturated market.
Why do people like subscription boxes?
People like subscription boxes because they experience surprise and delight regularly, and they often get products and services at a discounted rate compared to buying them separately.
How quickly does the subscription box business grow?
The subscription box industry is growing rapidly, with the market size estimated to reach $23.18 billion in 2021.
In addition, the industry is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 18.1% between 2023 and 2027.
Final Thoughts
Subscription boxes are a great way for consumers to get products tailored to their interests.
By partnering with companies with access to various products, subscription box companies can find the best items for their subscribers and ensure they get the products they want.
Plus, consumers can get unique items they might not otherwise have access to and experience the convenience of having them delivered right to their door.
References:
- https://www.liveabout.com/eight-things-you-should-know-before-shopping-on-ebay-
- https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/Amazon
- What To Wear To A College Party For Guys: 10 Outfits (2023) - March 24, 2023
- How To Throw A Hotel Party & Not Get Busted: Full Guide - March 24, 2023
- How To Make A Backdrop For A Party: Full Guide (2023 Updated) - March 24, 2023