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Launching a sunglasses business could be a very bright idea; this multi-billion-dollar industry shows no signs of fading. But finding reputable suppliers and selecting the right inventory takes some savvy. 

Understand the Supply Chain

Before jumping in, it helps to understand how the wholesale sunglasses pipeline works. Manufacturers produce the shades then sell them to wholesale distributors like Olympic Eyewear, who function as intermediaries selling bulk sunglasses to retailers at low prices. As a retailer, you’ll purchase inventory from these distributors rather than going straight to manufacturers.

There are also wholesale suppliers who import shades from overseas manufacturers, often providing exceptionally low per-unit pricing. Nevertheless, long shipping times and inconsistent quality can make these riskier options when you’re just starting out.

Research Wholesale Suppliers

With thousands of wholesale sunglasses distributors out there, you’ll need to thoroughly vet potential suppliers. Look at:

  • Customer Reviews – Read feedback about product quality, service, shipping speed and overall reliability. Review sites let you hear from other retailers.
  • Product Range – A wide, regularly updated selection gives you more options to meet customer demands. Check out their catalogs.
  • Minimum Orders – Some wholesalers require high minimum buys that may be too much starting capital for beginners.
  • Payment Terms – Net 30 or 60-day terms can help your cash flow versus paying upfront for each order.
  • Licensing – For brand name shades, ensure they are an authorized distributor rather than dealing in knockoffs.
  • Custom Branding – Some suppliers can add your logo to frames or packaging for brand visibility.

Compare at least 3-5 different suppliers against these criteria before choosing your initial distribution partners.

Select Your Initial Inventory

As a newcomer, stock a good variety of basic styles while keeping inventory costs manageable. Essential core items include:

  • Sports Wraps – These secure-fitting shades appeal to active customers.
  • Aviators/Pilot – The quintessential cool style for men and women.
  • Oversized Glams – Glamorous, face-flattering frames in trendy shapes and colors.
  • Wayfarers – The retro iconic design that’s always fashionable.
  • Oval/Rectangular – Timeless, clean styles ideal for everyday wear.

Within those categories, get neutral hues like black, tortoise and colors like pink, blue and green that have widespread appeal. Order a range of lens tint options too, like mirrored, polarized and gradients. Frames should span different materials and price points.

To streamline operations at first, stick to ready-to-ship bulk sunglasses rather than customized options. You can explore personalization possibilities like laser etching logos once you’re more established.

Create a Merchandizing Plan

Once your wholesale sunglasses inventory starts arriving, you’ll need merchandizing solutions ready:

  • Display Cases – Both wall-mounted and countertop styles let customers easily see and try on frames.
  • Storage Racks – Slatwall, gridwall or gondola shelving keeps overstock ultra-organized.
  • Lighting – Illuminated displays or adjustable spot lighting shows off premium sunglasses.
  • Computing System – Software to track inventory levels, bestsellers, reorder needs, etc.

Point-of-sale materials like signage, decorations and branding also add polish to your presentation. Consider where marketing positions like “Buy One, Get One” deals will be most impactful.

Choose Smart Pricing

One of the biggest advantages of being a wholesale sunglasses retailer is paying low bulk prices yourself. But you’ll need to think strategically about markups to stay competitive while generating healthy profits.

As a guideline, most sunglasses retailers double their wholesale costs to set retail prices. So frames you pay $5 for get listed around $10. On higher-end designer shades with costs over $20 wholesale, markups of 50-70% are more typical.

Monitor what other local stores or e-retailers charge for comparable sunglasses. You may need to undercut bigger chains while still maintaining reasonable margins. Promotions, bundles, and seasonal sales also impact smart pricing.

To conclude, with the right supplier partners and best-selling inventory mix, industry success will be well within your sights.