Summer School

Logo. In keeping with a more fashion-forward design, don’t just imprint in the typical areas. A less overt, yet ultra-effective, example is the logo-in-the-sand footprint for which Neet Feet is known. Amsterdam also shared a recent innovation on the company’s Zori sandal (see “Z”)—a molded rubber logo tag, which is recessed into the sandal strap.

Markets. “It is important for a distributor to pay attention to trends happening in the market while also listening to their customer’s feedback,” said Raymond.

New. In addition to the company’s Helena racerback (see “H”), the Catrina Sheer Rib Tank is also new for summer at Bella. This spring, SanMar Corporation debuted quite a few new pieces in cotton, Strom said, including a Port Authority EZ Cotton Piqué Sport Shirt, which will resist pilling
and fading.

Options. Explore customized choices for a more personal and cost-effective promotion. “We try to give everybody the most bang for their buck and [as many] customized options as possible,” Amsterdam said.

Perceived value. When it comes to flip-flops in particular, “Sometimes people see them as a shower shoe,” Amsterdam maintained. He noted that quality materials (see “R”) and added extras (see “L”) help keep end-users focused on quality as opposed to price.

Quality. “I think that for me, the most important consideration … should always be on the quality of the product, especially in footwear,” Amsterdam said. “If it’s not a good quality, it’s either going to break quickly or it’s going to be uncomfortable.”

Rubber. Because of this mantra, PVC and other inexpensive materials have no place on Neet Feet sandals. Instead, it’s all high-grade rubber, Amsterdam affirmed. “They may look the same on the shelf, but pick them up, pull on the parts, start to examine them a little closer, and you’ll see that while the appearance is the same, they have completely different properties,” he explained.