BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Tell us about the main Buff product:
It’s a fanatically versatile product that can be worn around the neck and head in a variety of ways either as a neck scarf, face mask, balaclava, headband, scrunchie, beanie, bandana – to name but a few – and is thin enough to fit perfectly under any type of helmet.
Original Buff is made from a high quality polyester microfibre that insulates to keep you warm yet wicks perspiration to keep the skin dry.
Buff is a big fan of licensed brands appearing on its garments; how does this draw customers?
We have a number of licensed brands within our standard collection, mainly in the junior and baby section. Brands such as Spiderman, Batman, Disney, Hello Kitty, Disney Princess and Winnie the Pooh are all instantly recognisable and have strong appeal to the younger user. Among adult sizes we have National Geographic prints and Kukuxumusu, a fun range of cartoon characters. We can of course and regularly do customise Buffs for customers.
We have a huge portfolio of corporate clients that have chosen to promote their own business using a Buff, including Microsoft, Castlemaine lager, Subaru cars, Triumph motorcycles – the list is endless.
What packages and support can you offer retailers?
That’s an easy one. We strive to cover every eventuality with point of sale that can fit into the tiniest space or the largest superstore. We can offer a simple counter unit, or for those where space is less restricted, we have floor stand and wall fixtures that can incorporate a DVD that continually demonstrates the versatility, uses and ways to wear a Buff. We have stickers, posters, event banners, and have even been known to create bespoke, one-off units if the potential justifies the investment.
How is Buff progressing with the Merino wool fabric?
The forward orders have been fantastic for Wool Buff and we have just commenced the winter deliveries to our customers. Most retailers and many consumers are already well briefed in the benefits that Merino offers as it has been growing in popularity in recent years being used extensively in base layer garments. It is soft and luxurious, insulates yet wicks moisture, and is resistant to odour, UV protective, water repellent and flame retardant. It’s available in eight strong plain colours.
Which shows will Buff be at this year?
Still to go are: The Mongol Derby. Our ever so slightly barking CEO Jools is setting off on a 1,000km charity horse race across the Mongolian wilderness. Then the more mundane events: Southampton Boat Show, MTB Marathon Series, Glee, BNF, London Rat Race and the Outdoor Trade Show.
Tell us about the Hides brand:
As you know we are big into ‘multifunctionality’ so when we first saw Hides we felt it was the perfect complement to Buff. Not just a glasses lanyard the Classic Hide is a cleaning cloth, a glasses case and lens protector all in one and the H2O, made from high quality neoprene, will float if accidently dropped into the water allowing the user to retrieve their best pair of sunglasses or prescription lenses that otherwise would sink slowly to the ocean depths.
TEL: 01707 852244
WEB: www.buffwear.co.uk
