Surviving Covid-19: What Some in the Industry Are Doing
“Your Store May Be Closed, But Your Business Isn't”
Uncertainty is the order of the day, with the Federal goverment and state governors advising and in many cases mandating shutdowns of most businesses. With no definite end in sight, many businesses are being creative and finding ways to still serve their customers virtually.
Crystal Media held a free webinar to help stores with social media selling.Social Selling
Crystal Media has been helping retailers with social media marketing since 2007 and is offering for FREE a digital version of their Social Media Planner (get it here). This planner helps merchants plan and track their social media plus offers video training. “It’s hard to know where to start, what to do next, and there’s fear that your marketing efforts won’t pay off,” says Crystal Vilkaitis, founder of Crystal Media. “But we also know that marketing a store can be easy, effective and fun – especially when you introduce a strong social media strategy to support your business.”
Crystal Media recently hosted a
webinar entitled “3 Tips to Get Started with Social Selling Today.”
The webinar mentions retailers who are using Facebook Live and other platforms to connect with their customers, such as Fabulous Female Boutique in Ohio and Revolutionary Concord in Massachusetts. Video has become the most effective means of social communication by far according to Crystal Media.
Crystal Media also offers a Social Selling Course.
Drop Ship
Vendors are also adapting to the shutdown with creative solutions. Some may be shut down, but many are still able to ship product and may be offering deals.
Don't forget, if you are experiencing disruption in your supply chain, you can find new vendors below and at portals like giftswholesale.com and cameoez.com
Some vendors will drop ship directly to your customers. To find the OmegaNet/CAMEO EZ vendors who drop ship, go to CAMEOEZ.com, log in with your username and password for any CAMEO EZ site (if you aren't already registered at CAMEOEZ.com, you can enter your username and password, then copy your registration). Once logged in, click the “Directory” link, then click “Search by Category,” then “Drop Ship” to see the vendors who will ship directly to your customers. You may need to call in your order. Vendors may have differing drop-ship policies and there may be a drop-ship fee.
Here is a list of some of the OmegaNet/CAMEO EZ vendors who have confirmed they will dropship:
Other vendors may drop ship during this period, so contact your favorites if they are not in the list above.
Virtual Trade Show
With most of the spring trade shows shut down for now, OmegaNet Inc., publisher of this newsletter, is also doing its part to help our vendors and the retailers they serve by holding a "Virtual Spring Trade Show." Begining April 23, GiftShowSpecials.com will feature videos by a variety of vendors to give retailers a taste of what they would have seen had they been able to attend the spring shows. OmegaNet is running this "virtual" show free to the vendors and retailers to help during this time.
Sell Online
Since OmegaNet is a web development and marketing company, one of the company's services is creation of retail ecommerce websites. Retailers who only have information websites or even just a Facebook or Instagram presence, but no ecommerce capability, may need to have a website where they can still sell online. If this is your need, contact OmegaNet at sales@omeganetinc.net.
Move Your Inventory
If you have inventory just sitting during the shutdown, why not make it available to Amazon resellers? You may need to sell for less than your regular retail price, but at least it would create some cash flow. Many Amazon sellers are experiencing shortages. OmegaNet has a connection to a network of international Amazon sellers who are unable to source many of their usual suppliers and may be able to buy from you. Contact OmegaNet at the email address above for more information.
Quick Industry News
VENDOR NEWS
Sincere Surroundings Announces “Direct Ship” Program
Sincere Surroundings, a US-made manufacturer specializing in home décor, souvenir and gift items, is offering a free direct-ship program, as well as a Retailer Facebook Community Group to assist retailers. "We have created two resources for our retailer to generate income with NO investment and NO risk," say Michelle Leuthold, founder. "Our limited-time Direct Shipo program and our Facebook Community Group for Retailers are ways we can serve our customers in these challenging times. We're all in this together!"
Sincere Surroundings is offering the following fulfillment options:
- Every item on the Sincere Surroundings site can now be direct-shipped.
- Sincere Surroundings will offer flat rate residential shipping via UPS and/or USPS to consumers for a flat fee of $9.95
- Alaska and Hawaii not included.
- Retailers will pay using their standard terms with Sincere Surroundings.
- Sincere Surroundings will invoice customers for wholesale cost + the $9.95 flat shipping fee.
- Sales Representatives that receive direct-ship orders should transmit through their normal ordering system, or email Sincere Surroundings.
NEW WHOLESALE WEBSITES
Lins Lace recently opened the company's new CAMEO EZ© wholesale website. Lins Lace is a major importer of the finest hand embroidery products, like beddings, cushion covers, chair covers, baby clothings, baby accessories, guest towels, handkerchiefs, rugs, table linens, and more, for over 25 years.
Hot Ruby has opened its CAMEO EZ© B2B website. Hot Ruby is the perfect addition to your mug on a cozy evening. Unlike typical cider, Hot Ruby's family recipe marries cranberry and citrus juices with an exquisite blend of spices. Add your favorite spirits for a special treat! Hot Ruby is certain you will find comfort in every heated or iced cup of Hot Ruby, time and time again.
CameoGlass has new CAMEO EZ© B2B website. CameoGlass products are variously called Glass Prints, Glass Photo-Frames, Photos on Glass, or Glass Photo-Gifts. Simply put: the company takes your customer's photos and reproduces them to a range of functional Glass Products for display and use at home. Your customers' pictures are fused into glass, creating translucent, vibrant photo-displays which can be viewed from both sides and are vibrant in color. The result: an elegant, yet striking display of beautiful photography and great memories!
Featured Vendors
indicates a CAMEO EZ© web site.
Ala Carte Alice
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Ala Carte Alice‘s mission is simple: to provide the best products and service to their customers and use the freshest ingredients that they can find. Alice Wooten takes great pride in her company, their commitment to customer service and in the products they sell. Ala Carte Alice’s products include savory sauces, red dog rubs, glazes, relishes and jams. Black and Blue Bacon, Creme Brulee and Sante Fe are just some of the yummy cheese balls Alice offers. In addition, there are mouth watering desserts, party dips and awesome entrees. You have go to try Ala Carte Alice for an excellent cullinary experience!
Barrel Aged Creations
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From sourcing maple sap to delivering a finished product, all these artisanal items are from US based, family businesses. The company's maple is sourced from a 3rd generation family farm in the deep, dark woods of Pennsylvania. Our criteria for sap to syrup must fall in the Grade A, Dark Amber category. For maple aficionados this was once referred to as Grade B or the late harvest.
Cameo Glass®
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Cameo Glass products are variously called Glass Prints, Glass Photo-Frames, Photos on Glass, or Glass Photo-Gifts. Simply put: the company takes your customer's photos and reproduces them to a range of functional Glass Products for display and use at home. Your customers' pictures are fused into glass, creating translucent, vibrant photo-displays which can be viewed from both sides and are vibrant in color. The result: an elegant, yet striking display of beautiful photography and great memories!
Christ Visions®
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Clark Francoies has been working in the arts from the age of 5 and brings over 50 years of knowledge and experience with the color palate. He was trained in California at Pratt college in fine arts and in Germany on mixing custom hair colors for salon owners and cosmetologists becoming a color specialist. Although Clark uses many mediums, he is mostly painting in oils at this time and is now based in Kona, Hawaii. Clark is excited to share with you his passion for art. Gods nature and His word are the things that most inspire Clark in his work.
cinda b®
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cinda b® was created by Atlanta designer Cinda Boomershine. Cinda's love for color and a passion for design, inspired her to launch her own back and accessory line. cinda b® tastefully blends solid colors with modern prints. Poly/nylon fabrics make cindab bags uniquely lightweight yet durable, water and stain resistant, and machine washable.
Decorum
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Decorum brings original art, craft, and home decor products designed by original artists to gift shops and home decor boutiques. The company\'s current product line focuses on alphabet letter art. Additional products are on the way. When you shop with Decorum you will find unique items inspired by original artists at a price point that is attractive to a wide audience.
Deep Fork Foods
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Gourmet foods and snacks from the heart of Oklahoma! Including Kettle Crunch in Pecan, Jalapeno, Cowboy and Almond flavors, Spice Blends in Jamaican, Cowboy and Pepper flavors, Nut Gift Sets and more.
Drew DeRose
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Drew DeRose's lines run from tabletop to decorative figurines and include candle holders, cannisters and cookie jars. All products are colorful and original. The company has a creative staff that designs merchandise for Drew DeRose Designs.
Fancy That Gift & Décor
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Fancy That Gift & Decor, Inc. celebrated its 18th anniversary in August, 2019. Owners, Steve and Carmen Mendelson, have used their experience in gift and home decor to build a company that takes pride in providing quality Coastal Decor products and service with the highest levels of integrity always at the forefront.
Fhasso
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Brazil-based Fhasso features distinctive, artistic pet beds made in Viet Nam out of bamboo.
Freeheart
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Founded in 2011, Freeheart is based in Sarasota-Bradenton, Florida. Freeheart is committed to delivering the absolute best quality and innovation on the market. Freeheart thermal insulated drinkware is Made in the USA and keeps drinks cold & hot, has reduced sweating, and is dishwasher safe.
Gina B. Designs
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Gina B. Designs is an award-winning greeting card, gift and stationery products company featuring exceptional art and design. With an array of styles, variety of products and outstanding customer service, Gina B. Designs has "something for everyone." All products are proudly made in the U.S.A.
Gracefully Designs
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Valerie Bailey (Val Bailey Designs) designs creative and colorful Bible tabs to enhance Bible journaling. These colorful Bible tabs make it easy to locate the books of the Bible so you can spend more time reading and journaling and less time searching!
Green Rhino
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Miko is recognized as on of the world's leading manufacturers of sentimental gifts. Whether it is for Mom, Sister, A Loved One, Your Aunt, Your Guardian Angel or whomever, there tasteful gifts send beautiful messages to beautiful people. Economically priced with great retail appeal they are just the thing for special occassions or just to say I'm thinking of you.
Greystone Avenue
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The Sofa Arm Table by Greystone Avenue was built with professional grade materials to provide a unique look that reflects your style and personality. It was born out of pure necessity, to provide superior protection for the arms of your sofa, couch or recliner. Made from beautiful Acacia hardwood and featuring a non-slip silicone top and base to provide years of faithful service.
Hawaii Bee Company
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Hawaii Bee Company is a family owned and operated business located on the Big Island of Hawaii. The company produces Award winning raw honey, and raw honey comb.
Holiday Fried Pecans
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Holiday Fried Pecans' rise in popularity can be attributed to its first treat a salty, sweet 100% certified Louisiana fried pecan that is guaranteed to satisfy the most demanding of cravings. These great tasting pecans that have less fat & calories than raw pecans are a perfect addition to any store. Lightly sweet, Lightly salty and great on Salads, Sweet Potatoes, Ice Cream, Cheese Cake or as a snack. Holiday Fried Pecans...a curious and delicious flashed-fried Louisiana Pecan that's great for corporate gifts givers, retail locations, cooking, baking or solo-snacking!
Hot Ruby
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Hot Ruby is the perfect addition to your mug on a cozy evening. Unlike typical cider, Hot Ruby's family recipe marries cranberry and citrus juices with an exquisite blend of spices. Add your favorite spirits for a special treat! Hot Ruby is certain you will find comfort in every heated or iced cup of Hot Ruby, time and time again.
Huggy Box
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Huggy Box is a great alternative when greeting cards just don't say enough. Sending virtual hugs allows everyone to stay connected. Huggy Box is a Proud Partner of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. A portion of each HuggyBox sold goes to the foundation to find families for children in foster care.
Innovative Technology Products Corp.
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Innovative Technology Products Corp. is a 2017 start-up enterprise of engineers and scientists, who have committed themselves to utilize their creativity, design and other capacities to develop and /or redefine versatile reusable household helpers and other everyday consumer products. Innovative's motto “AVOID PLASTIC – USE SILICONE” is a first step. It is the company's contribution to protect open ocean waters from plastics pollution. Adopting and supporting it means buying reusable silicone products rather than conventional one-way plastic products; thus, you contribute to and also become part of our community and campaign to “SAVE OUR PLANET”.
JTP Wholesale
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JTP Wholesale is a wholesale website offering monogrammed coasters, IcyBags, and Keeping It Positive affirming sheets and pillowcases.
Lins Lace
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Lins Lace is a major importer of the finest hand embroidery products, like beddings, cushion covers, chair covers, baby clothings, baby accessories, guest towels, handkerchiefs, rugs, table linens, and more, for over 25 years.
Liz Lind Editions
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Liz Link Editions features art prints inspired by summers at the beach. All Liz Lind prints are limited edition. Liz’s giclées are printed using 8 and 12 color printers with pigmented inks that resist fading and last longer (up to 200 years) than any other ink available. The result is a richer denser color with astounding vibrancy and resolution. Capture Liz’s original art is digitally captured avoiding intermediate photography steps that can degrade the quality of the original image.
Nature's Retreat
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Maryland-based Nature's Retreat features several lines inclucing Aromatherapy Jewelry, Chakra Jewelry, Crystal Healing Bags, Essential Oils and Healing and Smudge.
Neon Nightlife
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Neon Nightlife's glowing products are the perfect ice breaker for singles or the stuff the younger ones fight over. Regardless of where you are you'll be drawing tons of attention to your group. Our products are eye catchers in bars, clubs, concerts, electric glow runs, LED parties, Halloween and anywhere that crowds congregate. Most products come with a battery pack that controls different strobe modes.
Pure Factory Naturals
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Pure Factory Naturals collections, including Flip Flop Foot Repair,Splash. The collection includes lip balm, foot repair, body lotion, hand cream, solid lotion bar, salt glow, skin repair.
Pure Mana Hawaii
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Pure Mana Hawaii Founders Sue Mandini and Kollette Stith bring the wisdom of living close to the land and in harmony with nature's rhythms to the marketplace in their luxury skincare line. Built from the ground up, the brand features wild harvested ingredients and a synergy of raw, wild macadamia nut oil and green coffee bean oil, grown on their family's certified organic farm, Mahina Mele in Hawaii.
Red Carpet Studios, Ltd.
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Red Carpet Studios, Ltd. features All Jazzed Up™ Fashion Accessories for Fall & Spring. A wide range of Giftware for the Home & Garden. Visit our website for New Products & Specials.
Rudolph and Me
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Joe and Sue Brielmann have taken their combined experience of over 28 years in personalized products and design to create one of the fastest growing cart businesses in the country. Their creative ability, attention to detail, and the highest standards for quality and customer support, are among the reasons Rudolph and Me has experienced such huge growth.
Sanis Enterprises
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Sanis Enterprises offers a large selection of elegant and stylish, quality desk clocks, the latest styles in fashion watches, executive gifts, credit card cases and multi tools, just to name a few. Gifts that celebrate life’s special moments.
Sincere Surroundings
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Sincere Surroundings offers home decor and gifts that can be personalized with different colors, sizes, names, dates, locations, anniversaries and more. If your customers are constantly on the look-out for that one piece they just have to have, it can be found here – inside Sincere Surroundings.
Smile Drinkware
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Smile Drinkware provides custom tumblers to major brand manufacturers and also provides hundreds of unique exclusive tumbler designs to retailers and consumers. Provides high-end, top-quality insulated tumblers.
Snazzy & Company
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Snazzy and Company's sea-glass jewelry uses mostly recycled glass and the metals the company selects are environmentally friendly. Founder Anna Shaw researches and designs every charm herself and continues to use local help to assemble and create her jewelry. "Because Life is not Black and White."
SOi Essentials
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SOi Essentials is a Northern California based company that offers an array of richly scented candles to enhance your overall wellness. SOi Candles are hand-poured in the USA using 100% All Natural Food Grade Kosher Soy Oil, that burns cleaner and up to 40% longer than paraffin based, wax or soy blend candles. The company's candles are made with 100% cotton lead free wicks, are soot-free and do not emit harmful toxins (such as Benzene) into your home or the environment.
Star Home
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Star Home features tabletop and home decor for specialty retailer, catalog and online marketers, the hospitality trade and more. Star Home's designers look to all corners of the world to gather inspiration for this ever-growing market. This inspiration is then turned into real-life, high-quality products by artisan craftsmen.
Studio B Inc.
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Your Place for 1,000’s of Unique Licensed Posters, Art, Stickers & Collector Pins. An industry leader for over 30 years with the best collection of Music, Movies, Nostalgia, Comics, Art, Anime, Blacklight, Landscapes, etc… Products are available for Resale in Stores, Online, Colleges, Conventions & Anywhere you exhibit!
Sunset Vista Designs
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Sunset Vista Designs offers you extra margin opportunities, and sells thru at retail. They offer innovative designs, in proven products, with space saving merchandising solutions, and attractive package deals that all add value to the quality products we offer. Many say this is the "best ever" line of innovative gift, garden, and home decor.
Sweetsmith Candy Company
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The Alberta, Canada company was founded by Dannah Davies in the summer of 2012, recognizing the need for allergen friendly, delicious treats; she decided to take the opportunity to both pursue her passion for experimental cooking, and provide the much-needed reprieve from the uninspiring sweets available to those with wheat, soy, dairy and egg sensitivities.
Tizo Design
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Lines include Tizo and Siena frames in a variety of styles and colors plus elegant candleholders from tea lights to pillar candles. The site also features boxes and trays in a variety of materials.
Vintage Girl:
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Inspirational stationery and home decor, featuring the work of owner-artist Michelle DeFillipo. Michelle uses her love of inspirational words, vintage paper, architecture and color to inspire and uplift. Her artwork expresses a range of sentiments from the sincere appreciation of a true friend to self motivation for each day.
CAMEO EZ© is the B2B e-commerce system developed by OmegaNet Inc., publisher of this newsletter, for use by retailers in ordering inventory for their stores. A partial list of CAMEO EZ sites can be found at the company's portals such as www.giftswholesale.com, www.accessorieswholesale.com, www.apparelwholesale.biz, www.decorwholesale.com, www.usmadewholesale.com, www.toyswholesale.com and www.usmadewholesale.com. A complete list of sites is available in the "Directory" on www.CAMEOEZ.com.
Clean Litter Club
Cleerely Stated
KraftWorks
Whimsy Me 
Wild Hare Designs
