As we’ve mentioned in recent weeks, despite overall volatility in global markets, disposable gloves are in a good place.
The first half of 2023 has seen a number of factors pose challenges: threats of recession, interest rate hikes, persistent inflation, and a general sense of dread about the short-term health of the economy (which has, nevertheless, largely remained strong).
Does quality control in disposable gloves matter?
Of course it does, but it is likely that every glove supplier views it differently.
At AMMEX, we directly inspect every shipment right at the factory—100% of them, unlike any other independent glove supplier. We work with dozens of factories and trust them to follow our detailed specifications. But, in the words of Ronald Reagan, we “trust, but verify.”
Most customer-facing employees working for any industrial distributor—no matter how knowledgeable they are—are likely not as successful at selling disposable gloves. That’s no knock on anybody, just the truth that accompanies an unusual product.
Why? Because gloves are a strange commodity: Practically every business uses them, but sales reps who truly understand the nuances of the product or the market are few and far between.
Being able to source disposable gloves when needed is essential for any distributor. If your customers have a need, you want to be able to fill it quickly and efficiently.
The ability to source gloves at scale—an unpredictable and expensive proposition—is priceless.
International shipping is another cost variable that exerts outsized influence on the price of disposable gloves.
Ocean freight rates in 2023 have been on a steady decline for shipping containers from SE Asia to U.S. West Coast ports. Experts fear transport companies will try to force up prices by making fewer voyages and leaving containers behind, delaying the delivery of goods.
If there’s a thread that runs throughout AMMEX’s 35-year history, it’s commitment to customers.
Ever since 24-year-old Fred Crosetto started this company in 1988—and at first sold gloves out of the trunk of his car as he built his brand—AMMEX’s focus has been on delivering what customers need, as well as helping them grow their glove sales.
There are a lot of niche needs in the manufacturing sector. However, once again the issue boils down to the job is more important than the industry. What matters most to your customers? Is it grip, thickness, chemical resistance? Do they still use latex but should be using nitrile?
It’s a complex question because the category is so large—but a few gloves will cover most needs across the widest spectrum of industries:
“I want to sell more gloves.”
“Do you have any issues selling more gloves?”
“Yeah. I don’t know which segments to target.”
Training a good sales rep is not easy.
It can take a long time, and require both extensive product knowledge and refinement of technique (e.g., lots of practice calls). Just knowledge isn’t enough, either: strong communication and persuasion skills are not optional. And, of course, the candidate needs to have a motor that revs into overdrive.
Hey, industrial distributors! Are you looking to add a sweet source of profit?
If you’re not selling single-use gloves, you need to start. They’re a lucrative addition to any catalog. Let’s face it: Even if the pandemic is over (it isn’t), hand protection is central to promoting health, hygiene, and safety in any industry.
