[Rmulhall]

Hi Guys

I'm going to a few fairs, seminars etc, but I wonder if anyone had any advice on sourcing, and pit falls to avoid or any tips?

I am looking to source many differnt types of material and potentialy a garment factory.

Thanks

Rachel

[jimbo]

Always make sure you have a relevant business card printed as they will take you more seriously that way.

Some companies don't want to deal with the little guy so will try there utmost to put you off and get rid of you, I experienced this with a taiwanese manufacturer when I told them I was a new business start up and only wanted to deal in small sums i.e less than 100 units. They asked me where my target market was and I said U.K/Europe and they turned around and said ' Oh we have an exclusive deal with a major retail chain in that target market already'

So be prepared for that kind of thing.

[Sleuth]

Make sure you ask the same question over and over as the answer will change.
Realize that the Chinese do not like to say "No" but will give all sorts of hints that what you are asking for is not possible.
Everyone in China claims to own the factory.
Have the business card printed in Mandarin on one side, English on the other. Have someone, preferably a native, who actually speaks/reads Mandarin proof it.
Learn some of the language, but always have a translator.