What exactly is it that we do? I mean, we know what we do, but how do we know that you know? This is a marketing issue that any business must confront. There is no point being good at something if no-one knows about it—you must get the message out. ...
A few days ago I got a message from a friend cheerfully saying “371 days until Christmas”. It kind of feels that way does it not? Christmas this year is different. We know this because Thanksgiving was different. Christmas, socially speaking, will undoubtedly be much of the same, many of...
We first heard of the pandemic when it hit China back in January 2020. It was immediately clear that it would have a big impact on supply chain management. Ensuring responsible working conditions that met safety regulations and prevented contagion was not going to be easy. Many importers turned...
In this second Client Spotlight (read the first here), we introduce the Portland-based company Happy Products Inc. (HPI), whose signature product, The Flippy, has made reading, whether it is on tablets or books, comfier and cozier around the world. This young company’s dramatic growth—they now sell on QVC, HSN,...
American made vs China bought has been a hot topic as of late. With the recent political climate, the trade war and tariffs, more and more importers are looking to move their supply chains home. But is that really in their best interests? We came across an interesting analysis by...
To successfully import from China, travel to the country is essential. Even with the most experienced team on the ground, at least one trip is crucial for numerous reasons: revealing the complexities of China importing, meeting your suppliers face-to-face, forging trusting partnerships, understanding the myriad cultural differences that impact all...
By now, the need to wear a mask might seem like old news. However, as wearing a mask is part of our "new normal," it might be easy to forget the importance of using a good quality and the right kind of mask, especially in high-risk environments. The Market Sourcing...
For most Americans and Europeans, it’s never been fun to wear masks – unless, of course, you’re in New Orleans during Mardi Gras or at a carnival – or if you are robbing a bank. Despite this cultural bias, masks make sense during the current pandemic: they work. For example,...