Sourcing EVA Pillowslides Slippers for DTC Brand

Client Profile for LRG

Client’s Background: The client, an independent UK-based company, excels in developing Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) business strategies for Shopify standalone sites. With a dedicated marketing team and various dropshipping avenues for distribution, their product offerings span daily necessities, electronics, and clothing. Their focus lies in enhancing product and service value by delivering unique functional benefits and practical solutions to consumers.

As their product lineup grows, the client sought a full-service provider with a deep understanding of the Chinese supply chain, capable of efficiently managing and tracking orders. This led to our establishment as a trusted, long-term partner for this DTC brand.

Before this partnership, in April 2022, we had previously collaborated with the client on a custom “Swimming shorts” project. For more details on that initiative, please refer to this Case.

The products were delivered on time in 25 days and subsequentlay debuted by the client on their standalone website.

Following a month of collaborative efforts among LeelineSourcing, the factory, and the client, which included proofing, sample approval, and production, the launch was successfully executed.

The client expressed a desire to create custom EVA Pillowslides slippers tailored for both men and women.

Following discussions with our European client, the detailed specifications for these EVA slippers are outlined below:

1. Material: 100% EVA Pillowslides
   • Sizes available: 36-45
   • Color options: White, Black, Grey, Khaki, Orange, Blue, Yellow, Pink
   • Sole feature: Non-slip design
2. Total Quantity: ***** pairs
3. Price Range: $-

Found the Right Manufacturer.

We engaged in preliminary discussions with our existing factory suppliers, covering product prototyping, process specifications, and potential challenges. Additionally, we identified two manufacturers specializing in similar EVA (Ethylene-vinyl acetate) pillow slide slippers. After a thorough assessment, we ultimately selected the following supplier:

EVA Pillowslides Slippers Supplier – GuangDong Shantou***** Shoe Co.

Internal Meeting to Discuss the Product and Production Details

In an internal meeting focused on the product and its production nuances, our team deliberated on the feedback from both the factory and the client. We pinpointed several challenges that required solutions:

1. Handling EVA Material Odor
   • Issue: The EVA material used in the slippers emits an odor.
   • Resolution: We opted for an eco-friendly EVA foaming material and determined that airing out the finished slippers for approximately 2 hours significantly reduces the odor.
2. Preventing EVA Slippers from Deforming
   • Issue: The slippers are prone to deformation and shrinkage when exposed to intense sunlight.
   • Resolution: Given that UV rays can damage the slippers’ plastic polymers, we advise against prolonged sunlight exposure. Post-wash, the slippers should be stored in a cool, airy environment to maintain their shape.
3. Avoiding Discoloration of Slipper Soles
   • Issue: Over time, the soles may yellow or darken due to wear and environmental factors.
   • Resolution: Our EVA Pillowslides are crafted using a one-shot injection molding technique, ensuring a durable, solid sole that is light, eco-friendly, and resistant to cracking. This design also prevents dust and water infiltration, safeguarding against discoloration.
4. Sizing Recommendations for Slippers
   • Issue: Uncertainty about the appropriate slipper size for individuals typically wearing size 37.
   • Resolution: We suggest sizing up for those with average foot dimensions, recommending a size 38, whereas for narrower feet, the usual size 37 should suffice.
5. Maintaining Non-Slip Sole Efficacy
   • Issue: Extended wear can smooth out the sole’s textures, diminishing its slip resistance.
   • Resolution: The slippers’ soles are engineered with specific textures to boost friction and prevent slipperiness, enhancing the non-slip feature.

Prepared the First Prototype.

The first prototype was developed after Tiven, the account manager, and Jessica, the purchasing manager from LeelineSourcing, engaged with the EVA Pillowslides slippers supplier – ***** Shoes Co. They conducted an on-site meeting to deliberate and conclude on various aspects, leading to the preparation of the initial sample version, focusing on the choice of materials and specifics of the manufacturing process.

The client was extremely pleased with the initial sample.

Within a span of 10 days, the first set of samples was produced, aligning closely with the client’s specifications in terms of style, color, and structure, achieving an accuracy of at least 98%.

Following a video review and approval from the client, we dispatched the samples to the client in Europe using DHL Express for their final confirmation.

Confirm The Order and Shipment.

Upon reviewing the samples, the client expressed great satisfaction and proceeded to place an order with LeelineSourcing, specifying that the goods be delivered to the designated forwarder within a 12-day timeframe.

LeelineSourcing conducted an on-site visit to the factory for a meticulous inspection of each item. Following the successful spot check, we instructed the factory to proceed with shipping, handled the necessary export documentation, and completed the shipment declaration.