Hello,

I started an ebay business selling Men NFL Jrseys about a year ago. Things have been slow for a few months. I have a business license, ficticious name and a Tax Id #. I am ready for a full time profitable business. My problem is I am having a hard time finding vendors in the US to supply me with NFL jerseys. I have purchased jerseys from China and received terrible merchandise (what a nightmare). How can I get the major suppliers to work with me without a physical retail location? Are there any real suppliers for the little man?

Kameka

Kameka,

You've chosen a popular product in a crowded field. All NFL merchandise is produced under strict licensing, whether it has a team name, logo, or the NFL logo. It's a closed market for the most part. And the garbage you get from China is most likely not licensed, and can get you shut down and possible brought up on charges.

All NFL merchandise must carry the proper documentation, which is usually a licensed hangtag with an official decal - most often a holographic decal. Anything not carrying the license is fraudulent, unless you are able to buy and sell second hand merchandise where the original owner removed the tags.

Another possible business for you to do online is to sell promotional advertising - products that will carry the buyer's company name, logo, and additional info. There won't be as many buyers, but you can be selling 25 to 5000 or more items on a single order.

Dennis Bevers

Dennis Bevers
BASSCO, Inc.
Full-time, home-based, self-empolyed since 1987.
Dealers needed-US residents only!

As Dennis pointed out, NFL jerseys are licensed... I don't want to imagine what might happen if you're caught selling unlicensed knock-offs... Not sure what the rules are there, exactly, but am certain that the NFL could easily have you, personally, on copyright infringement, and you'd have to ask a lawyer what that is worth... I will quickly add that I just spent $30,000 on protecting my copyright... I can't imagine how much the NFL is willing to spend... but wouldn't you feel better selling something you are legally allowed to sell?

Just a thought.

T

Tina Brooks, VP Marketing
Brooks Pepperfire Foods, Inc.
Makers of Peppermaster Hot Sauces
http://www.peppermaster.com

Eat more peppers!