Introduce your business and tell us your story: How did you decide on what to sell, and how did you source your products?
We first decided we wanted to be in a social business to help others around the world feed themselves and break the poverty cycle. We decided that the belt was the perfect vehicle to make that happen. Everyone has a belt and everyone needs a better one. Mission Belts are built to last; they’re fun, and they look great. Combined with our mission to help others help themselves, it’s a company that has all the right pieces. Our belts are designed in Utah and manufactured in China.
How did you earn your first sales? Which channels are now generating the most traffic and sales for you?
Our first sales came from word of mouth and door-to-door sales approaches. At that point in time our main objective was to inform people about how this no-holes belt could help end world poverty. In regard to traffic and sales, we've always had a strong online presence but have recently seen success expanding into big-box stores and other retailers.
Tell us about the back-end of your business. What tools and apps do you use to run your store? How do you handle shipping and fulfillment?
We use Shipstation to monitor and fulfill orders, MailChimp to maintain communication with our customers about new lines and promotions, and Yotpo to stay informed on product quality and customer insights. Mission Belt handles shipping and fulfillment through both a fulfillment house and our own internal efforts.
What are your top recommendations for new store owners?
Be a producer. Whatever you are doing add value to everything that you touch. We have a dream to make an amazing product and to give a hand up to those striving for a better life. To do that we have to produce something truly great and that is what Mission Belt has become.