How to find independent wholesale suppliers
Sourcing from independent suppliers can help your shop stand out. Here's a practical approach to finding and evaluating them.
Last reviewed · June 2026
Where to look
- Online wholesale marketplaces: Platforms such as Faire let you browse many independent brands in one place.
- Trade shows and markets: In-person events are a good way to meet makers and see products first-hand.
- Direct from brands: Many independent brands sell wholesale directly — check their websites for stockist or wholesale pages.
- Industry directories and communities: Trade associations and retailer communities often share supplier recommendations.
How to evaluate a supplier
- Check product quality and whether it fits your shop and customers.
- Review minimum order values, pack sizes and lead times.
- Confirm current payment terms, returns and shipping policies directly with the supplier.
- Understand where products ship from — suppliers can be based in many countries.
- Start with a small test order before committing to larger volumes.
Using a marketplace to speed things up
An online wholesale marketplace can make discovery faster because you can compare many independent suppliers in one place. If you'd like to explore this route, you can browse independent brands and review their current terms on Faire's official website.
Ready to explore independent wholesale brands?
Faire is an online wholesale marketplace where retailers can browse and buy from independent brands. Check Faire's current terms and product selection directly on their site.
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