five simple ways to foster collaboration between brands & retailers
As a toy company dedicated to creating premium screen-free toys that celebrate the beautifully diverse world of today's kids and foster meaningful connections between caregivers and children through play, we understand the importance of collaboration – especially when it comes to working with our retail partners!
Collaborating with retail partners isn’t just about selling products; it's about building meaningful relationships, amplifying our brand's reach, amplifying our partners' reach, and ultimately, spreading joy to children everywhere! So, whether you're a distributor, a retailer, a budding entrepreneur, or just curious about the ins and outs of retail collaboration, we’re going to talk about how to make the most out of a collaboration.
So, grab your favorite toy (preferably an Upbounders® creation!), sit back, and let's talk about five effective and fun ways to collaborate and build strong partnerships! 🚀🌈
1. every retailer is different – embrace the uniqueness!
Upbounders® is commissioning a custom banner for Connecticut independent retailer Olde Tyme Toys. The owner of Old Tyme stopped by Upbounders®’ booth at the New England Toy Show and told Upbounders® that they have a big wall perfect for advertising their best brand partners. Say no more! A big banner is on the way!
2. provide collateral & signage to support displays and promotions.
Upbounders® provided one of its first floor displays to Solid State Books in Upbounders®’ hometown of Washington, DC. When Jeff, the husband of Upbounders®’ founder, Kemi, stopped by the store, one of the owners raved about the utility of the floor display which was prominently placed in the middle of the bookstore.
3. be generous with each other.
When Upbounders® partnered with Chick-fil-a to put mini-versions of its puzzles in kid’s meals last year, every Chick-fil-a bag had the Upbounders® logo on the side in the weeks leading up to and during the promotion. Upbounders® is still grateful for the custom merch.
4. be social too!
In January of this year we celebrated National Puzzle Day by partnering with content creator @Lexii86 on Instagram to giveaway a gift card to Indigo. This was a fantastic way to celebrate our love for puzzles and the fact that our Canadian friends and fans can find Upbounders® at Indigo!
5. stay true to your brand!
A potential partner reached out to Upbounders® recently and said that they were attracted to the brand because its slogan is “belonging begins with play.” The potential partner said that belonging is one of their core values and we could be a great partner supporting the moms in their organization.
So awesome!
So much is possible when you connect with a fabulous collaborator and brand partner. We love cultivating these relationships, getting creative about what is possible, and seeing our retailers shine with us!
To partner with Upbounders®, reach out to us today. Let’s explore how we can work together to bring kids joy and happiness.
