An Overview of Consignment Trade
Consignment trade, also called commission trade, is a form of business exchanges in which goods are possessed and sold by the consignor or the consignee on behalf of each other. It mainly applies when a company, such as a manufacturer, contracts with one or more sales agents to sell their goods.
Essentially, a consignment trade agreement helps a business to distribute products quickly and profitably. In this type of trade agreement, the consignor controls what is being sold and the sales agents are responsible for marketing and selling goods. A consignment trader (the sales agent) is provided with a portion of the proceeds upon successful completion of a sale.
Consignors, typically product manufacturers, are generally responsible for providing samples and instructions to the sales agents. The sales agents, in turn, make contact with retailers, wholesalers and other potential buyers, advertise and market products, and make sure goods are delivered technically and in accordance with the established deadlines. The consignee will send payment to the consignor after the sale is completed.
Consignment trading agreements can be beneficial to both parties, as they can improve sales and potentially increase profits. The consignors have the advantage of being able to grow their business while the sales agent can access customers they would not have access to otherwise. Sales agents usually also benefit from the ability to sell products quickly and at a higher price than if they were selling on their own.
However, consignment trading agreements can be a source of tension between the parties. If the goods sent by the consignor are faulty or unsatisfactory, the consignee is ultimately responsible for solving the issues, resulting in frustration from the consignor. The consignee may also be in a position of leverage, as prices for unsold goods are often set by them. As a result, there is a risk of disputes between the two parties, which can result in costly court hearings and legal fees.
In conclusion, consignment trade is a form of business exchange in which goods are possessed and sold by two parties on behalf of one another. Consignment trading agreements can provide both manufacturers and sales agents with benefits such as increased sales, improved profitability, and the ability to access customers they would not have access to otherwise. However, both parties should bear in mind the potential risks associated with consignment trading agreements, such as disputes over pricing and unsold goods, to ensure a mutually beneficial outcome.