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Routes To Market in the UK

Once you have conducted your market research, and you are sure that your product or service will appeal to the UK audience you must consider what is the best route to market to sell in the UK.

You may have the cheapest, fastest, shiniest product on the planet, but if no one knows you, no one will buy.

Decide whether you should sell products online, on the high street, or a mixture of both.

Decide whether direct marketing to UK databases might be the best initial approach to new clients?

Or whether a sales call to arrange a face to face meeting is more suited to your business and you potential clients in the UK.

Perhaps you should employ some sales representatives to sell your product or services in the UK, or book a stand at the relevant exhibitions/ trade shows.

The above routes to market in the UK are generally known as the direct channel.

Using Indirect Channels to sell your product in the UK.

Going down the distributor, sales agent, or franchising route will suit many types of organisation looking for sales in a new market.

Finding a distributor in the UK

You will need to work with a company that you trust, that is happy with an arrangement that is profitable for both parties, and that knows your market in the UK.

Finding a sales agent in the UK.

We are putting together a list of directories and consultants that can help you find the right sales agent in the UK.

Franchising in the UK

Franchising is the licensing out of a business name, product, technique, philosophy, trademark, etc, for a percentage of the income. Instead of setting up new outlets as part of your expansion, you license your existing business blueprint out to franchisees who then set up and manage it for you.

The benefits of franchising your business in the UK include: more freedom, as the franchisee takes on major responsibilities; minimal expense; lower cost and higher profits; potential for fast growth; brand building.

Disadvantages of franchising a business in the UK: although few, rely predominantly on your franchisees. They include: poor quality franchisees; franchisees not declaring all income; poor performance.

If you are looking to franchise your business in the UK as a long term route to market then specialist advice should be sought.

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