Oopma Toys looks fabulous - how does one approach a coop?

[chlobo]

I came across the Oompa toy site (www.oompa.com) and its fabulous. I was wondering about a co op. how does one go about approaching the owners? What's the tip?

[eb1]

I'm really not the best person to address this, but since no one else has answered yet...

A couple weeks ago I arranged a discount for Kettler trikes and accessories. As I was only able to secure a modest 10%+ free shipping deal, I'm not sure I'd go so far as to call it a "co-op." I first posted here to get an idea of interest, which I figured would help with bargaining power with store owners. Then I contacted a bunch of stores and simply asked, giving an idea of how many orders I anticipated we could come up with.

Turns out, I estimated much lower than the number of orders actually produced, which is a shame because I possibly could have gotten a better deal for us had I been equipped with a more accurate number. BUT, that's a lesson. There are lurkers and people who simply don't check the boards frequently who will probably participate, even if they don't indicate interest originally.

My other tip is to imagine what kinds of questions board members will have, so you can settle all the details with the store ahead of time and thus prevent the owner from being bombarded with questions.

Anyway, good luck, and I'd be interested in participating in an Oompa co-op if you can get it going!

Erin

[essnce629]

I don't have any advice, but I'd also be very interested in a co-op. I have a ton of stuff from their website on my wish list :).

***Latia
Conner 8/19/03
http://www.babiesonline.com/babies/a/aug2003angel
http://www.gynosaur.com/assets/ribbons/ribbon_gold_12m.gif 17 months & counting! http://www.windsorpeak.com/dc/user_files/9870.gif

[lmladuke]

I have never organize a co-op but have participated in a bunch through these boards. I would imagine you can just email/call and explain to them about the board and ask if they would be willing to do a special discount. I have spoken with a few of the owners of the stores that did co-ops and they all said they were surprised at how many orders they received. Maybe that is the incentive to tell Oompa?

FWIW, I have a bunch of stuff in my wishlist as well, and would definately participate in a co-op.

Lori

Mommy to Jonathan Matthew 7/27/01
and Katherine Olivia 7/28/04

http://lilypie.com/baby1/050728/2/13/3/-5/.png

[ett]

Don't have any suggestions on organizing a coop, but I'd be interested in participating if there's one. The Oompa website has some nice stuff!

[swampnurse]

LOVE that site as do a few of my friends. we'd be interested.

[jamsmu]

I haven't organized one either, but would recommend calling it a "group buy" or "bulk buy" if they don't like the sound of "co-op." Can't wait to check out their site!