Consignment can be a wonderful way to introduce your line/product to a brick and mortar store and gain sales and get your brand out there. There are positives and negatives to each in my experience.
If you decide you want to work with this store that is approaching you especially if it is out of state. Do your homework and see if the establishment has been around for awhile. In some cases there have been many horror stories even here on etsy when sellers consign out of state or local to a new shop(see forum posts). Then the shop closes for a variety of reasons and now you are out of your merchandise and money.
Now we cant categorize all stores willing to accept consignment into this category. But like I said ask them tons of questions definitely get there phone number even call local businesses surrounding that store and see if they can tell you how long they have been around. Visit there website and you can probably get a good idea. Generally the store owner will be willing to tell you this information.
Two I would absolutely request a contract of theirs, review it and if you feel uncomfortable try to negotiate the terms whether it be for damaged merchandise, payment, or display.
You can always ask for references of other business that consign with them, Generally when you decide to establish payment terms(net30) with a company you need to provide credit references with other vendors you work with. The business can do the same with providing references of other artisans, I'm sure they would be happy to vouch for the business and there experience.
If you decide this is a well established place of business and you have been provided or provide an agreement. Send a few pieces not too many to ensure that one they get there, and two if god forbid something is to happen your not at a total loss.
You can end up developing a great relationship with the business, potentially gain sales and get new fans of your work out of our local or etsy community. Stay on top of the merchandise without being a nag. Drop them a line every 30th or whenever you feel comfortable. Switch out merchandise that doesn't sell. And collect your payment every 30 days or earlier.
I always do 60/40. 60 percent to MeShe Designs and 40% to the boutique, galleries can be different as can other shops. If you feel comfortable with the numbers go for it.
Again you can never be too careful so I would be on guard before making any decisions. Unfortunately there have been a lot of scams on Ebay, Etsy, and through emails.
I hope that helps and Im not expert just speaking from my own experience.
Warm Regards,
Michelle
