The fastest way to get your product on QVC is to use an agent
BusinessA QVC agent is an independent person or group that can help you get your product or new invention in front of a QVC buyer very quickly. They are not employees of QVC, but function similarly to a traditional manufacturer’s representative in that they bring products to shoppers for consideration.
What to look for in a QVC agent
Nick Romer, author of the bestselling book “Make Millions Selling on QVC,” says, “A good QVC agent generally meets the following guidelines:
1. They work on commission and only make money when their product goes on the air and is sold.
2. Your main office must be near QVC, which is outside of Philadelphia.
3. They should not charge more than 10% commission.
4. They should be able to find a demonstrator for you if you need one to get your product on air.
5. They must have a long-standing relationship with QVC.
And they should have a primary focus on bringing products to QVC.”
Why use a QVC agent?
The old adage “It’s who you know” has never been truer than when it comes to marketing your product. If you have someone who is a phone call away from presenting your product in front of a buyer, it’s a much faster path to a purchase order than if you were trying to attract a buyer by exhibiting at a trade show, for example.
QVC agents have relationships with buyers and understand what makes a successful product. And for this reason, buyers often trust agents to appraise products for them.
Buyer turnover is also a frequent occurrence at QVC and being able to contact a new buyer quickly is important to your success. QVC buyers may come and go, but a good agent is like a solid foundation: it’s always there.
Then there is the matter of inner knowledge. “The pricing structure at QVC isn’t Keystone but it’s close.” Romero says. “If your agent is smart, you can bet they’ll know what your product’s price is to hit a certain retail price on the air. This means the extra $1 or $2 they can get will essentially pay your commission.” .
Another way that good QVC agents pay for themselves is by knowing what shows QVC is planning. If a buyer has hundreds of products and yours is not the most important, you may be overlooked. It is your Agent’s responsibility to remind the buyer about your product and how perfectly it will fit into the next line.
How to find a QVC agent
Attend an invention marketing event or contact a manufacturer’s representative in your industry. You can also exhibit at an invention convention where buyers, agents, and manufacturer representatives often visit. Lastly, many agents visit the big industry trade shows, so consider taking a booth at one that fits your category.