Well-known homewares wholesaler Mushroom Giftware has become Past, Last and Present, an online, trade-only company.
“Mushroom Giftware had always been at the forefront of innovation in the wholesaling industry and, over the last few years, we could see the traditional wholesale method becoming increasingly e-focused,” says Lindsay Sharp, director of Past, Last and Present.
“We wanted to lead the charge, so after more than 12 months of research, design and development of what we saw as the perfect online model, we bit the bullet and made the transition to online only.”
The new Past, Last and Present model offers a range of benefits for retailers including no minimum order quantity or value. “Many retailers have commented on what a relief this is,” says Sharp. “Not having to bulk with their orders to meet a specific dollar target brings with it freedom to trial as well as the confidence of spending within their budget and not overstretching.
“Being able to purchase when it suits is another benefit for retailers, as is the fact that all products showcased on the website are in stock, so they can order with confidence, knowing that the product will turn up within less than a week.”
Sharp says that the reaction so far has been positive. “Retailer response and uptake has been fantastic. Apart from cost savings and the simplicity of the Past, Last and Present online model, the trust was there. Retailers know we are not some upstart e-company; we have been around for more than 20 years.
“They know our product is quality, they know we are innovative, and they also know our service and support has always been fantastic. Add to that the winning opportunity for retailers to purchase at massively reduced wholesale pricing and you have a winning formula.”
Past, Last and Present products are mainly sourced from Asia but Sharpe says the inspiration is global. “Our team is constantly travelling and on the look-out for new and innovative ideas and product concepts in giftware, décor and homewares. We intend to stay very much at the forefront of the industry and introduce new items as they come into vogue.”
