Welsh distributor Something Different Wholesale was established in 1999 by former retailers Jane and Martin Wallace Jones, who felt they were well placed to offer a really good wholesale service to retail customers.
They have recently sourced an impressive range of hand-crafted products directly from manufacturers in Gianyar, Bali, putting much thought and effort into finding authentic items and securing a fair price for the Balinese craftsmen.
Comments Jane: “Whenever we buy from far flung places, being respectful of our producers and their workers is a major concern for us. We found places where entire families and friends worked together producing handicrafts and wood carvings – as seems to be the norm in rural Bali, the items are made by hand at the back of the house. Every single item, whether its a drum, a wood carving or a prayer flag has been painstakingly crafted by hand and is a work of art in itself.”
As Anthony explained: “The craftsmen introduced us to their families and showed us their products in a makeshift showroom with a sense of pride. We really felt good about adding these items to our range, knowing that as there is no middleman, we could pay the full asking price so that the family receive a fair price for their hard work and can continue their traditional business, and we got some massive smiles when we placed our orders!
“Of course the products look fantastic, and that’s the very least our customers would expect, but it is nice to know that our policy of sourcing direct can help sustain families, and also means our customers get a fabulous deal they can feel good about stocking.”
View the Something Different collection at trade shows: Giving and Living, Westpoint, Exeter Stand A408 and Spring Fair International, Hall 5, Stand 5A48.
