1. Why is beauty product wholesale important now?
In salon management, it's not just the skills and customer service that are important. "Purchasing" is just as important.
Purchase costs for shampoo, chemicals, equipment, etc. These directly affect the salon's profit margin.
With raw material and logistics costs currently rising, optimizing procurement routes is the key to stable management.
This article explains the following:
- The basics of beauty product wholesale
- How to choose without making a mistake
- Specific tips for reducing costs
- Recommended major vendors
Turn purchasing into a strategic investment, not just an expense.
The difference between a wholesaler and a dealer
There are many different terms used in the beauty industry, such as "wholesaler," "distributor," and "dealer." However, these roles are actually different.
Wholesalers
- Main role is product distribution and sales
- The biggest advantage is the price advantage that comes from purchasing in bulk.
- We handle a wide range of consumables and versatile products
dealer
- The role is to sell products and provide management support
- Acting as a bridge between manufacturers and salons
- Providing high-value-added support such as technical guidance, management consultation, and trend information
For many salon owners, beauty dealers are special entities. They are not just suppliers. They are "business partners" who support the business.
2. Advantages and disadvantages of using wholesalers
2.1. Benefits: Cost reduction and management support
Significant cost savings: Wholesale prices are much lower than retail prices. Lower unit prices through bulk orders. Significantly reduce store operating expenses.
A wide range of products. You can compare products from multiple manufacturers in one place. This reduces the effort required for procurement and saves time.
Providing expert information Dealers in particular are a wealth of information. They will tell you about new products, industry trends, and even the movements of your competitors.
2.2. Disadvantages: Points to note
There are conditions for applying minimum order lot (minimum lot) wholesale prices. In some cases, you may need to order a large amount at once. Be aware of inventory risk and pressure on cash flow.
Relationship with the person in charge : For dealers, the quality of the person in charge is important. The quality of support changes depending on their knowledge and ability to make proposals. It is important to build a relationship of chemistry and trust.
It's difficult to choose from the vast range of products available. You need to identify products that fit your store's concept. This requires an investment of knowledge and time.
3. Five points to consider when choosing the best wholesaler for your salon
The choice of supplier will determine the future of your salon. Choose the best partner by looking at the following five points.
Point 1: Price, discounts, and hidden costs
The most important thing is the actual cost. It cannot be judged by the low unit price alone.
Things to check
- Are there any discount rates for continuing transactions?
- Are there any preferential treatments for long-term transactions or large orders?
- How much is the shipping and handling fee?
- Shipping charges based on order amount
- Hidden costs such as transaction fees
- Are the payment terms appropriate?
- Whether or not credit sales (payment after delivery) are possible
- Does the payment term fit your store's cash flow?
Point 2: Wide range of products and expertise
The key is whether you have products that can embody the concept of your store.
Check items
- Does it cover all major manufacturers?
- Can we ensure a stable supply of the necessary manufacturer's products?
- Is the store well stocked?
- Salon-exclusive products with high profit margins
- Original products that increase customer satisfaction
- Do you specialize in a particular field?
- Beauty salons, nail salons, barber shops, etc.
Point 3: Support system and information provision ability
This is especially important when choosing a dealer. Focus on added value beyond price.
Evaluation points
- Can you provide trend information?
- The latest trends and new products in the industry
- Will you receive accurate information quickly?
- Is there support for management and attracting customers?
- Management consultation and customer acquisition know-how
- Providing promotional tools
- Do you hold technical training or seminars?
- Seminars on new technologies and products
Point 4: Convenience of ordering and delivery
This directly leads to the efficiency of daily work. Convenience is also an important selection criterion.
Additional Info
- Is there an online ordering system?
- Can I order 24 hours a day?
- Can you check stock availability in real time?
- Delivery speed and accuracy
- Time from order to delivery
- Ability to respond to emergencies (same-day delivery, etc.)
Point 5: Credibility and track record
Can you feel confident in a long-term partner? The reliability of the company is essential.
Evaluation criteria
- Industry Proven
- Do you have a long track record?
- Do you do business with many salons?
- Management stability
- Is the financial situation sound?
- Is the management policy stable?
4. Tips for purchasing and reducing costs to maximize profits
It is important to keep purchasing costs down. Use wholesalers and distributors strategically.
4.1. Strategic use of major dealers vs. online retailers
There is no need to limit yourself to one procurement route. Make the most of the strengths of each. By using them appropriately, you can get the maximum effect.
major dealer
- Benefits: Management support, technical guidance, reliability, consultation on expensive equipment
- Disadvantages: Price competitiveness may be inferior to online shopping
- Recommended products: Expensive equipment, highly specialized drugs, products that require management support
Online shopping
- Pros: Low price, 24-hour ordering, convenience
- Disadvantages: Limited support, no physical inspection
- Recommended products: Consumables (paper, towels), versatile supplies
Key points of the strategy: High-priced, specialized products are sold to dealers. Price-sensitive consumables are sold online. This "hybrid strategy" is the most efficient.
4.2. Thorough inventory management and review of order lots
The basis of cost reduction is to prevent excess inventory.
Identifying the appropriate inventory Analyze past sales data. Based on usage, determine the limit at which you can avoid stockouts. Always be aware of this appropriate inventory.
Plan your orders : Take advantage of wholesalers' campaigns and sales information. Order frequently used products in bulk to lower the unit price. However, be careful with products that have an expiration date.
4.3. Purchasing Strategy for Store Products
Store sales are the salon's "second pillar of revenue." Approach it strategically.
Selecting salon-exclusive products We select products that cannot be purchased at general drugstores. These are salon-exclusive products. This leads to customer retention and secure profit margins.
Analyze customer needs and tailor the product to suit the customer's hair type and skin concerns. Expand the product lineup to be able to propose products.
Strengthen sales promotion: Attend sales promotion seminars for in-store products. Improve your staff's sales skills. This is also part of your purchasing strategy.
5. Major wholesalers recommended for salon owners
We will introduce companies that many salon owners use.
1. BEAUTY GARAGE
FeaturesOne of Japan's largest comprehensive wholesale sites for professionals. Covering a wide range of products including hairdressing, beauty salons, and nail salons. Online convenience and a wide selection of products are its strengths.
Recommended points: Ideal for salons that want to procure almost all products, from equipment to consumables, in one place. Also recommended for salons that want to mainly purchase online.
2. 7BEAUTY
FeaturesWe are particularly strong in beauty and nail products. We also focus on developing original brand products. We offer a wide range of price-competitive products.
Recommended points: Ideal for beauty salons and nail salons. Also recommended for beauty salons that want to enhance their beauty menus.
3. Other specialist companies
Direct sales from specific manufacturers If you are particular about specific pharmaceuticals or cosmetics, you can deal directly with the manufacturer. This will give you access to more in-depth technical support and the latest information.
Used equipment specialists are effective when starting a business or replacing equipment. They can significantly reduce costs. Choose a reliable company. It is important to carefully check the warranty details.
6. Summary: Strategically utilize wholesalers and wholesalers to run a successful salon
Sourcing beauty products isn't just about buying products cheaply.
This supports the quality of salon services, increases profit margins, and stabilizes business operations. It is a strategic activity.
Choosing the best wholesaler means finding a reliable business partner.
Price, product selection, and above all, support system. Evaluate these factors comprehensively. Choose a partner who will support your store's growth in the long term.
Optimize your purchases. Focus on improving customer service. By doing so, your salon business will surely be led to success.
References
[1] Secrets of Beauty Wholesalers: Basic Knowledge and How to Choose - sc-drink.jp
[2] How are beauty wholesalers and dealers different from manufacturers? How to choose a dealer... - rsvia.co.jp
[3] [Beauty Salon Owners Must-See] Wholesalers and Purchasing Sites for Beauty Products... - salon-knowledge.com
[4] Major Dealer vs. Online Shop | The Right Purchase for a Beauty Salon That Won't Regret... - note.com
[5] Beauty Garage [Official] | Professional hairdressing/beauty salon/nail salon... - beautygarage.jp
[6] Where can I buy professional supplies for beauty salons? Recommended wholesalers... - and-us.jp
[7] A thorough explanation of the advantages and disadvantages of used beauty equipment - bisella.com
