How to get shops to sell your product and grow your retail presence

Getting shops to carry your product is one of the fastest ways to build brand credibility and grow your retail presence without investing in your own physical space. In a market like the UAE—where curated, luxury, and shops retail is thriving—this approach can significantly accelerate your path to market success.

This article will walk you through proven methods to get shops retailers to say yes, how to prepare your brand for retail partnerships, and how Gulfinder helps businesses establish strong retail footprints in competitive markets.

Why getting shops to sell your product is a game-changer

Shops cater to curated, loyal customer bases and often look for fresh, exclusive brands that help them stand out. Unlike mass retail chains, they offer:

• Personalized product curation
• Higher margins for niche brands
• Strong influence in local markets
• Opportunities to test new products with low volume

This makes them ideal for emerging brands, especially those in fashion, accessories, personal care, wellness, and home goods.

What shops owners are looking for

Before you pitch your product, understand what shops owners prioritize:

• Product uniqueness: Does it add something new to their shelf?
• Quality and branding: Is your packaging polished and aligned with their aesthetic?
• Wholesale pricing: Are your prices allowing the shops to earn a decent markup?
• Low risk: Are you offering low minimum order quantities (MOQs), return policies, or support materials?

Having professional photos, a line sheet, and strong brand story can be the difference between a yes and a pass.

Proven strategies to get shops to say yes

1. Build a retail-ready pitch

Create a one-page pitch deck or wholesale catalog that clearly outlines:

• Product details
• Wholesale pricing
• MOQ and lead times
• Brand values
• Contact information

2. Personalize your outreach

Send tailored emails or physical samples to shops owners. Reference their store’s style and explain why your product aligns with their curation.

3. Start with local or niche shops

Begin by targeting independent retailers or stores that specialize in your category. These stores are often more open to new brands and flexible on contract terms.

4. Leverage trade shows and pop-ups

Participate in local trade exhibitions such as Beautyworld, The Retail Summit, or fashion-focused pop-up markets. This gives you face time with buyers and instant feedback.

5. Follow up with value, not pressure

Even if a shops doesn’t say yes immediately, stay in touch. Share new product drops, customer reviews, or seasonal offers that might interest them later.

How Gulfinder helps brands enter shops retail networks

Gulfinder works with growing product-based businesses to expand their retail distribution through shops channels. Here’s how we help:

• Shops matchmaking: We identify relevant stores in the UAE, KSA, and GCC based on your category and price point.
• Retail readiness: We help you prepare your catalogs, pricing structure, and product presentation.
• Pitch coaching: You’ll get expert guidance on how to approach buyers and make a lasting impression.
• Trade show access: We coordinate your participation in retail expos and shops-specific B2B events.

Whether you’re a skincare startup, fashion label, or gourmet brand, Gulfinder ensures your retail entry strategy is precise, strategic, and locally relevant.

Getting your products into shops isn’t just about luck—it’s about positioning, persistence, and presentation. With the right outreach strategy and local support, your product can gain visibility and traction faster than through mass retail.

Want to grow your shops distribution in the UAE and beyond? Let Gulfinder help you make the right connections.

Don’t wait for retailers to discover you — pitch intentionally. A solid shops network can accelerate your retail footprint.