Maintaining Strong Client Relationships: A Case Study of Softline Brand Partners

Softline Brand Partners has had a longstanding client relationship with a factory that has been in operation for over 20 years. When the factory owner retired, the new team did not want to take on the account due to the complexity, raw material costs, and capacity requirements, given the size of the client.

To streamline switching factories, Softline relocated over 500 dies and tools and relocated a specific 10,000lb machine that was required to service the customer. The company reviewed all tools and dies and remade several as they were old and heavily used.

In addition, Softline converted all paper patterns and products with only tools (no patterns) to digital, which streamlined the production process. The company onboarded and started production of 25+ SKUs starting in August, ensuring they would be ready for the important Q4 holiday season.

To better serve the client, Softline visited the client on-site and is currently working on developing or refreshing 30 new items. By taking these steps, Softline has maintained a strong relationship with the client and continues providing high-quality products.

Key Takeaways for Prospective Clients

There are several reasons why a client may want to work with Softline. First, the company has a long history of successfully servicing the client and has maintained a strong relationship with them over many years. This demonstrates the company’s ability to effectively manage long-term client relationships and meet their needs over an extended period of time.

Proactive Steps

Second, Softline was willing to take proactive steps to continue servicing the client, even when the factory owner retired and the new team did not want to take on the account. This shows the company’s dedication to its clients and its commitment to finding solutions to challenges that may arise.

Streamlined Processes

Third, Softline is committed to streamlining its production processes and improving efficiency. By converting paper patterns to digital and reviewing and remaking old and heavily used tools and dies, the company has reduced costs and improved the efficiency of its production processes. This can be a valuable benefit for clients who are looking for ways to reduce their own costs and improve their own efficiency.

Strong Client Relationship

However, the most important reason a company should partner with Softline is should your factory partner no longer be able to serve you due to retirement, you’ve outgrown them, or there has been a change in management, Softline can facilitate migration from your old factory or vendor to its facility.

Finally, Softline is willing to work closely with the client to develop new products and refresh existing ones. By visiting the client on-site and working on developing or refreshing new items, the company has been able to better understand the client’s needs and continue to provide high-quality products that meet their evolving requirements. This can be a valuable benefit for clients who are looking for a partner who can help them to innovate and develop new products.