Amazon sellers all over Australia are waking up to the benefits of sourcing their items locally. But without Alibaba and AliExpress, how do we find amazing, home-grown products?
The interest in locally-sourcing products has shot up since the coronavirus crisis started earlier in the year. Factories abroad closing, international travel compromised and other problems have impacted our Amazon businesses.
Yes, products made in China are often much cheaper than those in Australia, where we have higher rents and minimum wages. Yet, there are lots of benefits to purchasing your inventory right here in Oz.
Made In Australia sounds better to your customers
Like it or not, compared with China, Made In Australia conveys higher quality and trust. Of course, it doesn’t guarantee them, you still have to choose your manufacturers wisely!
You might save money
Although the majority of products have much lower manufacturing costs in China, by sourcing locally you can drastically reduce your shipping costs.
Also, it’s much easier to negotiate a better price when everyone speaks English!
Support Australian businesses
By buying from manufacturers here in Australia, you’ll feel better knowing that you’re supporting the local community and the nation’s economy as a whole.
I’m feeling all patriotic!
Where to source Australian products
Let’s get to the crux of the matter. I’m going to give you the 4 places where I look for unique, Australian-made products and the local factories that make them.
Like Alibaba, Global Sources allow you to search for suppliers of a particular product or parts. The key difference, however, is that Global Sources connects you with a much higher standard of manufacturer.
In fact, the factories where Apple sources the parts for their products are on Global Sources.
Of course, you’ll pay more for higher-quality items, but check it out – there are heaps of fantastic Australian suppliers on there.
Austrade is the government-run, Australian Trade and Investment Commission. Here, you can find all the Australian-based factories who want to export their goods around the world.
The supplier directory allows you to search for thousands of great Australian companies by name, industry or keyword.
Australian Made is another brilliant source of high-quality, home-grown products.
Plus, when you buy products from any of the factories and workshops on the Australian Made site, you get to use this awesome little logo to your marketing efforts.
Not only does it look cool but it adds heaps of credibility and trust to your brand.
- Trade shows
One of my favourite ways to find unique, Australian products, is to check out the exhibitors at trade shows in my niche.
And, you don’t even have to go to the show. You can easily find the exhibitor list on the trade show’s website along with their contact details – all of them eager to meet Amazon sellers like you to do business with.
Some of the best include the Reed Gift Fair and the Australian Gift & Homewares Association fair (AGHA).
It’s great that more people are opting to do business in their own country. Australia is full of fantastic suppliers just waiting for you to place an order.
I hope this helps someone!
Big hugs and kisses!
Stacey xxx