Some of you may be aware that NCW stock more than just North Coast Wetsuits branded gear. With this in mind NCW’s head honcho, Mark Graham, gives some insight as to why.
What do you look for when considering a non-NCW, third party brand to stock and sell?
Quality, value, performance and heritage. The products need to work well, have a good price point and be backed up by some heritage so we know they are going to last and have pedigree.
What are next steps once you’ve hit upon a product you like – where do you go in terms of supplier etc?
Generally we’ll contact them, get some to try out, make sure we’d be happy to use them ourselves before we sell. We don’t just flog anything. High or low brow products are treated the same way. Recommendation also plays a part.
Do third party brands conflict with NCW stock?
Sometimes, yes, that is the case, but we tend to stock third party items for when we are out of our own similar NCW product. There’s always a delay in getting our own – that’s just the way it with manufacturers. And it is just limited to NCW and watersports products. It’s identical whatever ‘stuff’ you’re talking about. Some third party items are very similar though. But if there’s demand then we need to fulfil. People often ask why we are selling X when we do our own product of type. We are honest about it, we tell them we’ve none of NCW’s branded gear so try this instead. It works. Customers come back, whether for a repeat purchase or to buy NCW wetsuits and accessories. Either way it’s about building a healthy, loyal customer base. Honesty is always the best policy.
Which third party brands do you currently stock and why?
We offer Typhoon, Northcore, O’Shea and Osprey at various times of year. Plus some locally made items like Bee Bumps wax. There are products that we really rate but wouldn’t want to get involved with making because of the hassle factor. If it’s a great item and we can supply already then why not go route of least resistance?
Any plans for further additions in the future?
We are always on the lookout and love to hear from people about things we are lacking that they use. We have a great line on wetsuit washers coming fairly soon, we hope…