According to the "About Us" section of the website, WiseRep was built with a single vision, to streamline the wholesale industry. "We believe there's a better way to wholesale. As the industry moves towards the Internet as the preferred way to find products, WiseRep has emerged as the leading wholesale marketplace."
Additionally, the site claims that other stores visit this site to find products and wholesalers showcase their items. WiseRep.com is purported to have a variety of functions that simplify the wholesale process. "We've done the work and have built the destination of choice for wholesalers and retailers from around the planet. WiseRep is a one-stop destination providing users with a better way of doing business that saves time, saves money, offers global reach, and creates business efficiencies."
After a brief email exchange with the representative, I learned that WiseRep.com charges sellers a onetime set-up fee in the amount of $185 USD to add products to their site. In addition, there is a monthly fee of $30USD. As a seller, you’re agreement with WiseRep.com is on a month to month basis allowing the seller to cancel use of their service at any time. What comes with this service?
- Individual product pages created by WiseRep.com based on questions answered online.
- Unlimited product postings.
- Ability to bulk upload products to the site.
- Unprecedented access to the nation's top retailers
- Pick and choose who you want to work with so you can grow with your business.
- Set payment terms and delivery dates that work for you.
134 comments:
Funny you should talk about this company. I was contacted yesterday as well by someone there. I don't think its a good idea personally. When I did a search on the products that are on there, I have to say I was not impressed. I will don't think I will be joining.
Zai,
Obviously, I decided that I was not interested. I wonder how the reps determine who they will/will not contact with this offer.
I never checked out the products. I may have to do so.
Thanks for the feedback.
http://www.originalpixelcat.com/article.cfm/id/262640
Check out this link to info about wiserep.com Apparently they are merging with Barnes and Noble and are a very legit site. I too was asked to join and why not. My web site isn't doing wonders and it might be worth a try.
the last comment sounds like it was posted by someone who works for wiserep.
We were contacted by them as well... There is no evidence that they are merging with anyone - they have simply signed up for Barnes and Noble's affiliate program. Look around their site and all you see is affiliate graphic links to the big box stores. In their "Product Directory" you find more affiliate banners and also Google Adword ads.
To me it looks like they are just making an affiliate product directory (like so many others out there) with the added twist of trying to find small companies willing to pay them $30 per month to place products in their "Product Directory".
I've spoken with a few of their members and got some good feedback. I may give it a go.I've spent thousands at trade shows so the $30 is a no brainer if it works. We'll see.
Does anyone else know of any other ways like this to reach stores?
I have been contacted as well. But, I am seriously wondering if it's not a scam. They said they do guarantee sales. a trial period 6 months. If you're not happy with all of the added sales and extra business you generate
after 6 months, we'll refund your set-up fee 100%..
But you will still pay $30 per month for maintenance fee. That will be a total sum of $180.
Huuuuummmmmmmmm !!!!!
I joined over a year ago when they were free. It was doing good enough that I decided to keep them when they started charging.
Most of the orders I get are from specialty stores. No big retailers yet.
Be prepared. You have to be willing to discount your products up to 50% for stores to even think about you. If you can't do that it's probably not worth it.
There are other sites out there like BuyLink and Wholesalecrafts. Haven't tried them yet.
Thanks Tara E.
It looks like a good idea. I've been wholesaling for years. It's a slow process and a lot of work so help is always good. I like the monthly fee and guarantee. I'll probably join in a few days.
Found the following at http://beckbizblog.blogspot.com/
LogMeIn, WiseRep, MediaContactsPro - Top 3 Business Websites
When you start a business there's no guarantee of success. Even the best ideas never make it.
There's no magic formula or secret key that unlocks the door. Success comes, for me at least, in bits and pieces. Through trial and error I learn what works and just as important, what doesn't work. Then I take what works and put as much effort into it as I can. But I've also learned that you can't have to many eggs in one basket, so I keep my options open and my eyes peeled out for other things to help my business grow.
I decided to create this Blog to share what I've learned. The concepts I write about have helped me grow my businesses, saved me money, or helped me become more efficient. Keep checking back as I continue to update the blog. I hope some ideas are able to help you. Please feel free to share what you've learned.
1) LogMeIn (http://www.logmein.com)
I'm on the road a lot for business so this has been a lifesaver. Logmein allows me to control my home or work PC from anywhere in the world. LogMeIn is completely Web-based so all I need is an Internet connection. Here's how it works. Lets say I'm traveling to Hawaii from my home in New York. I'm in my hotel room and have important files to access on my desktop 5000 miles away. I usually bring my laptop so I can access the Internet wherever I am. If I don't bring my laptop, I turn on my hotel room T.V. and pay a little extra to use it as a web browser. I go to LogMeIn and enter a user name and password. In a few moments I'm able to control my home computer. Best of all, the service is free. There's an upgraded version but I find that the free version works for me just fine.
2) WiseRep (http://www.wiserep.com)
-My products are sold in over 300 stores, thanks in large part to WiseRep. WiseRep operates a virtual trade show putting my products in front of buyers who work for specialty stores and companies like Target, Macy's, QVC, etc. The stores purchase in large quantities. Smaller stores buy an amount close the the minimum order amount I list on the site (25 pieces). Larger retailers buy hundreds and sometimes thousands of pieces. I've been able to grow my business many times over with this site. The cost: $185 set-up and $30 a month. You can purchase banner ads that increase exposure for $550+
3) MediaContactsPro (http://www.mediacontactspro.com)
-I've get free write-ups in newspapers and magazines frequently. Editors are constantly looking for new story ideas. If I send them a well written story about my business (called a Press Release) chances are good they'll mention by business in their newspaper, magazine, radio station, or news program. All of this publicity increases sales. In the past I've used PR firms to write press releases about my business which they send to the media. This has cost me thousands. Now I write my own press releases and find the editors using MediaContactsPro. MediaContactsPro provides detailed contact information for over 400000 editors. The list includes email addresses. I simply plug the news release and emails into a mailing program (I use MailList Controller $99) and blast away. I'm able to email my story to thousands of editors in just a few minutes. The cost for the media contact list: $495.
Posted by Becky Trevenna at 10:17 PM
http://www.apparelnews.net/features/columns/Melrose-Heights-Summer-Sparks-Busy-Season-in-Fashionable-District
APPARELNEWS
Online Wholesaling for the Little Guy
by Robert McAllister, Technology Editor
June 27, 2008
Apparel wholesalers looking to sell their goods online now have another resource in Orange, Calif.–based WiseRep.com.
WiseRep provides a means to connect buyers with manufacturers and importers and vice versa over the Internet. The 2-year-old company recently reached a partnership with Macy’s, making the endeavor that much more attractive, said Vice President of Sales Jason Neely.
The site is fitting for stores such as Macy’s because of its broad product categories. Aside from apparel and accessories, it also services gifts and home accessories, beauty, books, music, toys, and electronics.
“It’s like a dating service or virtual trade show,” Neely said. “Our niche is specialty stores.”
Sellers pay $185 to set up their domains plus $30 monthly membership fees. The site is self-managed by the wholesalers, who also have unlimited access to adding and changing product offerings. The service is free for retailers. Registered stores include Macy’s, Wal-Mart, Target Stores, PacSun, Hot Topic and others.
Registered buyers need only to click the item they are interested in to place an order or inquire about additional information. The products are categorized and subcategorized for easy navigation, said Neely, adding that there’s virtually no learning curve on either side.
“The industry is moving toward the Internet,” Neely said. “It all started with [9/11]. Now gas prices are coming into play, making it more costly to travel.” In addition, wholesalers sometimes find it difficult to grab the attention of buyers at trade shows and other events because of all the competition and distractions.
“We’re all for trade shows,” Neely said. “We go to [the] MAGIC [Marketplace] every time, but it may be challenging for the smaller wholesalers, who can get overshadowed by these huge booths. That’s why they come to our site.”
For buyers, it’s just another resource to find up-and-coming labels that provide some exclusivity.
The merchandise mix ranges from Che Guevara military hats for $12.50 from All the Rage Inc. and bias-cut hemp dresses for $34.50 from People’s Hemp to beaded and lace evening gowns from CMG Ltd. for $149.
The site is growing, according to Neely. “It’s continuing to expand,” he said. “The Internet is changing the landscape of how companies operate.”
I just received an email from wiserep.com. Has anyone actually gotten some business from them yet?
I just received an email from this Mark Pardue and I've been doing some online checking. Here is one example: http://www.comicsreporter.com/index.php/briefings/letters/13342/
I would definitely recommend you doing some extensive digging before signing up with Wiserep.com. My gut tells me it has serious scam potential written all over it.
Signed,
A Cautious Creator
Anonymous - thanks for that but looks like someone just blogging. I'd prefer to hear from real members. Anyone?
I too received an email to join..
but my gut doesn't feel right about it..have you read their terms? Anyone can put a pretty website together.
so in doing a review search for WiseRep.com, I found your blog..interesting some of you have the very same gut feeling.
I think I'll just keep on trucking the old fashion way.
I like the concept. Great idea if it works. I like the monthly fee but I'm a small business and $185 is tough. You pay to play I guess. I'll give this some thought.
I've been thinking about thsi for awhile so I called some of their members. Of the 4 I was able to reach all gave them a thumbs up. 3 had picked up new accounts. One was pretty new so no bites yet. I''ll be joining next week. I'll let all of you know how it goes
I've been using the site for 3 months. I'll give this a 8.5 out of 10 I didn't expect much going into this but I've been plesantly surprised. From the first week resulst have been pretty consistent. I get a lot of inquires and so far have my products in over 20 new stores.
I'd give it a 10 but I'm still waiting for Nordstom and Target to contact me.
I'm running a small business in UK and was contacted by wiserep this week. Found it very interesting to read all the comments, allthough they all seems to be from people in the USA. Is there anyone who knows if this works for euopean companies as well? Anyone out there in UK/Europs who has tried?
I signed up for their service a month ago and got no results. So I called them and demanded for my money back, and the guy on the phone told me he'll break my legs if I do a chargeback. So I wouldnt recommend this site at all.
anonymous ... funny one. They sound like the Mafia. I'm thinking about joining this. The moneyback guarantee is a good incentive (you have to try it for 6 months to get a refund anonymous)but I'm hoping the orders will keep me around longer. I've tried tradeshows ... to expensive. I'm in a few stores now and am just looking to break out. I'll try. I'll keep y'all update with what happens.
To those who mentioned that you would try them out, could you also post a link to your businesses? It helps figure out who's legitimate, and who's just posting on behalf of the company.
We've been doing some research on them as well. I'm interested to hear from those of you who have tried them, and what your results have been so far. We're thinking about signing up as well.
Thanks!
Hani
Fierce Hugs Organic Baby Clothes
Thanks everyone for your comments. They have been great thus far.
I agree with Hani, for those who have joined, please share your results and post a link to your business - for verification purposes.
Hani is right, even if you're not a member, by leaving your URL folks know you're not fake.
Thus far, I have not seen any documented positive and verifiable info about Wizrep.
They contacted me already twice, so I'm it giving a second look, and by this tread I'm not impresed!
Marek
We were contacted via email by WiseRep as well. We're thinking of joining, but very hesistant. We've been doing business online since 1996 and we had a lot of ups and downs. A company like WiseRep if legit would be an good option to go with instead trade shows, etc.
Hi all,
I just got the invitation email today.
However, i not from USA.
Any experiences from non USA supplier?
I am an 10 yr. ecommerce veteran with corporate experience. Can I offer some advice? RUN, don't walk to the nearest exit. This company is not brokering products. They are selling lists of company buyers which may or may not be accurate but which they will not warrant for accuracy.
They also do not guarantee that their site is free of viruses, trojans, etc. How scary is that!!! Please read the Terms of Service completely before you buy.
Anonymous ... you have it wrong. Does anyone have anything useful to say??? They don't sell lists.
I read the terms of service also. Looks pretty standard. Why woudl anyone design a site with virus. Probably trying to protect themselves with legal mumbo jumbo.
Has anyone used the site. I'm considering them.
Time are tough so this looks good if it works. I like the month to month agreement.
Found this article http://www.apparelnews.net/features/columns/Online-Wholesaling-for-the-Little-Guy
What great commentary! Never would I have guessed that so many people have been contacted by this company or that this post would spawn such great debate! Keep it coming... perhaps we can all learn from one another's experiences.
I gotta admit it's a pretty good idea. The price is right so I'm gonna give it a shot.
This is the email I received. Sounds kind of rude, if you ask me. I never received any email from that dude-it's my first email and it sounds like your typical scammer. (I know the settings of my inbox and which account received what)
"I sent you an email 3 weeks ago about selling your baby products through our network of stores this Christmas season.
If you're interested, now's a good time to get started. It's crunch time for the large retailers, department stores, specialty shops and internet shopping sites we work with. They're agressively looking for more baby products to sell in their stores this holiday season.
If you have stock on hand to deliver by Christmas visit us at http://www.WiseRep.com. We guarantee sales.
Sincerely,
David Thibos
Director of Merchandising
WiseRep.com "
I just found that info somewhere else. Obviously that's a lovely scammer that has all kinds of alias and several "companies" that wants to rip of people! He called himself Nicoletti before-and scammed musicians who wanted to sell their CDs, same concept.
Now he's onto small business owners who sell babystuff.
http://cdbaby.org/stories/06/06/20/2643907.html
Scroll down to the bottom- there's your "wiserep" for you.
Don't walk-run!!
Anonymous, thanks but I researched that path also. Nicoletti isn't related. He's a music promotor http://goliath.ecnext.com/coms2/product-compint-0000677491-page.html
Thanks sflush. You never know what to belive. I read earlier in this blog that they break legs. I like their site. I've been trying toi break into stores but having a rough time. Since it;s a month to month I may give it a whirl for a few. I'll keep yall posted.
found a testimonial at http://beckbizblog.blogspot.com/
I would like to know who to believe?? My email said they had contacted me last month. This is the first email I ever received from this company. My email verbage was the same as the one printed in your blog with the exception of shirts instead of baby products.
Scam or not? How are we supposed to know?? Are the positive inputs direct plants from the company itself or actual satisfied customers? Maybe they are just planted like people in an auction to drive up the price of articles as far as they can and then drop out of the bidding??
Can someone shed some legitimate light on this subject?
Found an article about them at
http://www.apparelnews.net/features/columns/Online-Wholesaling-for-the-Little-Guy
APPARELNEWS
Online Wholesaling for the Little Guy
by Robert McAllister, Technology Editor
June 27, 2008
Apparel wholesalers looking to sell their goods online now have another resource in Orange, Calif.–based WiseRep.com.
WiseRep provides a means to connect buyers with manufacturers and importers and vice versa over the Internet. The 2-year-old company recently reached a partnership with Macy’s, making the endeavor that much more attractive, said Vice President of Sales Jason Neely.
The site is fitting for stores such as Macy’s because of its broad product categories. Aside from apparel and accessories, it also services gifts and home accessories, beauty, books, music, toys, and electronics.
“It’s like a dating service or virtual trade show,” Neely said. “Our niche is specialty stores.”
Sellers pay $185 to set up their domains plus $30 monthly membership fees. The site is self-managed by the wholesalers, who also have unlimited access to adding and changing product offerings. The service is free for retailers. Registered stores include Macy’s, Wal-Mart, Target Stores, PacSun, Hot Topic and others.
Registered buyers need only to click the item they are interested in to place an order or inquire about additional information. The products are categorized and subcategorized for easy navigation, said Neely, adding that there’s virtually no learning curve on either side.
“The industry is moving toward the Internet,” Neely said. “It all started with [9/11]. Now gas prices are coming into play, making it more costly to travel.” In addition, wholesalers sometimes find it difficult to grab the attention of buyers at trade shows and other events because of all the competition and distractions.
“We’re all for trade shows,” Neely said. “We go to [the] MAGIC [Marketplace] every time, but it may be challenging for the smaller wholesalers, who can get overshadowed by these huge booths. That’s why they come to our site.”
For buyers, it’s just another resource to find up-and-coming labels that provide some exclusivity.
The merchandise mix ranges from Che Guevara military hats for $12.50 from All the Rage Inc. and bias-cut hemp dresses for $34.50 from People’s Hemp to beaded and lace evening gowns from CMG Ltd. for $149.
The site is growing, according to Neely. “It’s continuing to expand,” he said. “The Internet is changing the landscape of how companies operate.”
We, www.indiafashionexpo.com Got this mail from wise rep:
I like your jewelry. Can we sell them through our stores?
We work hand in hand with key buyers from thousands of gift shops, department stores, large chains, mail-order catalog companies and Internet shopping sites. We help them find jewelry they can purchase, hence my email to you.
I have gone through the above comments and also googled them but overall its a mixed response from people. I am quite confused. If by now any above who have commented can write a detailed and honest view it will be great help.
I've been using the site for three months. So far I've been pretty impressed. Most of the accounts I am getting are from speicalty stores. I haven't; heard from the big guys but then again my pieces are more boutique.
I spoke with a few of their members. The feedback has been positive so I'll be joining in the next few days.
I too got the wiserep email, wanting to sell my jewelry. I am a jewelry design artist. I make one of a kind originals and sell my work in my own art gallery. I am very skeptical. Like others before me, I found this blog while researching wiserep. I am a small business and $185 is a lot to shell out + the $30 per month. I asked David Thibos at wiserep if he could give me some members to contact so I could inquire how wiserep is doing for them and he told me he could not, but they will have testimonials on line soon. That did not set well with me. I want to hear from people who wiserep is working for you, getting you contacts, making you money. I doesn’t have to be the big bucks, but it has to work, before I spend $185. Do you really have to slash your prices 50%? That would hurt me.
I forgot to put my url links in my previous comment. My websites are
www.leeshoregallery.com and www.creationsbychristina.net. You can reach me via email also at creationsbychristina@tampabay.rr.com
Wiserep is a complete scam. Someone I know in business signed up and has not received one inquiry after several months. Their website is intentionally misleading since they "quarantee sales" and have click advertising that is meant to look like members of the site. They have very few companies listed as sellers and their terms are also misleading and fradulent. I am sure they will soon be investigated for fraud and have already been sued once over false claims. If anyone is contacted by wiserep delete the e-mail.
Thanks for replying. I was very leery. Especially when they refused to give me any info on people who use their site. If it is as great as they claim, you would think they would want to refer people to other people who use their site. He just told me that the testimonials were coming in the near future. I have not actually found anyone who is using them. Saw where some said they were going to join, but that was all.
Did a little searching and found this http://beckbizblog.blogspot.com/
LogMeIn, WiseRep, MediaContactsPro - Top 3 Business Websites
When you start a business there's no guarantee of success. Even the best ideas never make it.
There's no magic formula or secret key that unlocks the door. Success comes, for me at least, in bits and pieces. Through trial and error I learn what works and just as important, what doesn't work. Then I take what works and put as much effort into it as I can. But I've also learned that you can't have to many eggs in one basket, so I keep my options open and my eyes peeled out for other things to help my business grow.
I decided to create this Blog to share what I've learned. The concepts I write about have helped me grow my businesses, saved me money, or helped me become more efficient. Keep checking back as I continue to update the blog. I hope some ideas are able to help you. Please feel free to share what you've learned.
1) LogMeIn (http://www.logmein.com)
I'm on the road a lot for business so this has been a lifesaver. Logmein allows me to control my home or work PC from anywhere in the world. LogMeIn is completely Web-based so all I need is an Internet connection. Here's how it works. Lets say I'm traveling to Hawaii from my home in New York. I'm in my hotel room and have important files to access on my desktop 5000 miles away. I usually bring my laptop so I can access the Internet wherever I am. If I don't bring my laptop, I turn on my hotel room T.V. and pay a little extra to use it as a web browser. I go to LogMeIn and enter a user name and password. In a few moments I'm able to control my home computer. Best of all, the service is free. There's an upgraded version but I find that the free version works for me just fine.
2) WiseRep (http://www.wiserep.com)
-My products are sold in over 300 stores, thanks in large part to WiseRep. WiseRep operates a virtual trade show putting my products in front of buyers who work for specialty stores and companies like Target, Macy's, QVC, etc. The stores purchase in large quantities. Smaller stores buy an amount close the the minimum order amount I list on the site (25 pieces). Larger retailers buy hundreds and sometimes thousands of pieces. I've been able to grow my business many times over with this site. The cost: $185 set-up and $30 a month. You can purchase banner ads that increase exposure for $550+
3) MediaContactsPro (http://www.mediacontactspro.com)
-I've get free write-ups in newspapers and magazines frequently. Editors are constantly looking for new story ideas. If I send them a well written story about my business (called a Press Release) chances are good they'll mention by business in their newspaper, magazine, radio station, or news program. All of this publicity increases sales. In the past I've used PR firms to write press releases about my business which they send to the media. This has cost me thousands. Now I write my own press releases and find the editors using MediaContactsPro. MediaContactsPro provides detailed contact information for over 400000 editors. The list includes email addresses. I simply plug the news release and emails into a mailing program (I use MailList Controller $99) and blast away. I'm able to email my story to thousands of editors in just a few minutes. The cost for the media contact list: $495.
wiserep is not in the top hits on any search engine. Just look at the number of products listed on their site, they are tiny. Companies like Macy's don't need wiserep to find new products, manufacturers send products on a daily basis to retailers. Don't believe most of the info on the internet.
http://www.apparelnews.net/features/columns/Online-Wholesaling-for-the-Little-Guy
APPARELNEWS
Online Wholesaling for the Little Guy
by Robert McAllister, Technology Editor
June 27, 2008
Apparel wholesalers looking to sell their goods online now have another resource in Orange, Calif.–based WiseRep.com.
WiseRep provides a means to connect buyers with manufacturers and importers and vice versa over the Internet. The 2-year-old company recently reached a partnership with Macy’s, making the endeavor that much more attractive, said Vice President of Sales Jason Neely.
The site is fitting for stores such as Macy’s because of its broad product categories. Aside from apparel and accessories, it also services gifts and home accessories, beauty, books, music, toys, and electronics.
“It’s like a dating service or virtual trade show,” Neely said. “Our niche is specialty stores.”
Sellers pay $185 to set up their domains plus $30 monthly membership fees. The site is self-managed by the wholesalers, who also have unlimited access to adding and changing product offerings. The service is free for retailers. Registered stores include Macy’s, Wal-Mart, Target Stores, PacSun, Hot Topic and others.
Registered buyers need only to click the item they are interested in to place an order or inquire about additional information. The products are categorized and subcategorized for easy navigation, said Neely, adding that there’s virtually no learning curve on either side.
“The industry is moving toward the Internet,” Neely said. “It all started with [9/11]. Now gas prices are coming into play, making it more costly to travel.” In addition, wholesalers sometimes find it difficult to grab the attention of buyers at trade shows and other events because of all the competition and distractions.
“We’re all for trade shows,” Neely said. “We go to [the] MAGIC [Marketplace] every time, but it may be challenging for the smaller wholesalers, who can get overshadowed by these huge booths. That’s why they come to our site.”
For buyers, it’s just another resource to find up-and-coming labels that provide some exclusivity.
The merchandise mix ranges from Che Guevara military hats for $12.50 from All the Rage Inc. and bias-cut hemp dresses for $34.50 from People’s Hemp to beaded and lace evening gowns from CMG Ltd. for $149.
The site is growing, according to Neely. “It’s continuing to expand,” he said. “The Internet is changing the landscape of how companies operate.”
I operate a couple websites www.giftsforthebirds.com and www.spiritualdecorstore.com are just two of my family of sites. I see people posting the same articles and blog posts but did anyone find any recent info on wiserep? I'm sure people have varied results but the ones who have used them before, are the results at least enough to cover the setup fee/monthly fee? In order for a small business to survive you have to be tight and nothing is worse than spending money on a fruitless investment. I'd hate to just give my money away, so can someone post their results, like average sales from using wiserep, how long it took to get first sale, and frequency of sales? Also, it says on their site you can list as many products as you want. Do they give you an easy way to import them via a spread sheet or something or is it a one product at a time deal? Like everyone has said, it looks like a scam and anyone can make a nice website and pay for a press release or two. The two articles I saw throughout this thread doesn't impress me. Any first hand experience/results would be greatly appreciated. Oh and like everyone else I was contacted today by them and that's why I’m curious. They said they'd love to sell my candles and at first it looked like a legit request but once I saw the link to their site, I knew they were just looking for my money. Like everyone here we're all just trying to make and run our businesses so any info on anything that would benefit us all is greatly appreciated.
Ok. I know this site is fake and scam, i own a business (www.thebenjaminbear.com) and I asked David what other brands are listed sell to stores and he could not even tell me and he stop replying to my emails.
No Thanks!
Thanks Mr Hill, You can view the other brands they carry by searching their site. I contacted some of their members and the feedback was pretty good. I can;t afford the fees right now but wil probably do so in a couple months.
I've never sold wholesale before so the month to month agreement sounds good. I'll keep every one posted with my results.
Does anyone know anybody who actually joined WiseRep.com and uses them? I cannot find anyone who actually did. How can we know if it will help our sales, if we have nothing to go by. Tanya did you sign up?
Anonymous said...
"...You can view the other brands they carry by searching their site. I contacted some of their members and the feedback was pretty good. I can;t afford the fees right now but wil probably do so in a couple months."
Anonymous how did you contact their members? When I asked they refused to give me any names. When you go on their site the only way on it is to sign up. I did not see products listed on their site. I saw advertisements. Did I miss something?
Is there anyone out there is cyberspace who is currently using wiserep and have you had any results? As for me, I am afraid it is just a scam to get my money. I am waiting to see some results. I am a very small business owner, I design jewelry and sell it in my own Gallery. I am struggling in a recessed market. $185. is a lot of green for me right now. I have to be sure it is a sure thing before I spend my hard earned dollars.
To those of you who posted your urls I enjoyed visiting your websites. I like to check out other artists and see what people are doing.
Christina
www.creationsbychristina.net
www.leeshoregallery.com
creationsbychristina@tampabay.rr.com
I have been following this blog since last July and from what it seems, NO ONE has actually left a comment that WiseRep is working for them with their website address or contact information. As a small business owner, I say RUN! I was scammed in November by a website company and by the skin of my teeth, I was able to not pay them by putting a claim in to my credit card. Never again.
Just learned about the following website that 2 of my favorite and legitimate blogs I follow recommend:
http://boutiqueup.com/
And it's FREE.
Best of luck to everyone.
I also received an unsolicited, first time email from this company (purported to be a second attempt to contact me) requesting to sell my products wholesale. Instead of shirts or baby items, they want my soaps (go figure!). I think that this is nothing more than a scam by people who search the internet for small businesses and then try to convince them to pay a set up fee and monthly fees for nothing. I equate this to the "work at home" spam emails that are so prolific. Beware guys and better yet, be careful!
I see a lot of jibberish and people not willing to spend money. Anybody with some real data please reply.
In response to Anonymous. That is the problem, there is NO REAL DATA ANYWHERE on WiseRep. I cannot find a single person who has used them ANYWHERE on the web, successfully or unsuccessfully! There is just NO ONE OUT THERE! It seems to me, if this is legit, WiseRep would be out banging down our doors to prove to us they are legit and show us others who have used them successfully with great results.
As for me, until someone can say to me, “Yes I used WiseRep, I joined, and I got buyers who purchased my product, (soap, clothing, jewelry (it seems they tagged us all)), I am going to ignore it for now.
When I questioned him and asked him to provide people used WiseRep and he told me he could not give me that info, but testimonials would be coming soon to their website, he never contacted me again. Looks to me like they did not get my money so they moved on. So I am moving on to, UNTIL I ACTUALLY MEET SOMEONE WHO HAS BENEFITED FROM WISEREP. I want to promote my business, I want to get my internet sales up. But my hard earned dollars are too valuable to me just to hand them out to the first scam artist who comes along. SO WISEREP, if you want MY money, PROVE to me you can help grow my businesses!!! Here are my websites and my emails. Feel free to contact me.
Christina M. Lee
www.creationsbychristina.net
www.leeshoregallery.com
creationsbychristina@tampabay.rr.com
leeshoregallery@tampabay.rr.com
I did some more searching on the web, just for my own piece of mind. I found a lot of other blogs out there, some going back quite a while, and basically they were all the same, everyone is afraid to use them, who were thinking about were thinking about using them, but not sure. It looks WiseRep originally was free to sign up, but for better results you could upgrade for a fee of $40.00, this I found on a Bead and Button blog, with posts from 2005-2007. I also found a Starving Jewelry Artist blog from May 2008, with the same thing, all saying WiseRep had contacted them, has anyone used them, etc., etc. I am going to get on these blogs and see if anyone signed up and used them. I am a jewelry artist and I make my own lampwork beads, so I am qualified to join their blogs.
I found a blog at emptees.com, and another at tshirtforum.com (both look to be t-shirt blogs), and yet another at mompreneursonline.com with the same type comments, they all got the email and did not sign up, etc., ect. All of them asking the same questions we are asking.
I found the press releases saying they had teamed up with Target, Macys, Petsmart, Barnes & Noble, the press releases all look like they are put out by WiseRep.
As a note, I also found a patent lawsuit against WiseRep by GBM LLC, but I could not find out any more info on it without paying a fee.
I DID found this on etsy.com/forums: Posted by and I quote "akaisilks says: some other website that found me here I supposed. www.wiserep.com they take your money, saying they will guarantee sales then later tell you they guarantee sales based on your feedback. I'm not sure if the rep I talked to spoke english because i kept asking over and over again HOW they guarantee sales And so too late now, I'm out $215 ..I asked earlier what kind of retailers visit their site, etc how many hits, no response. I paid for the service and started listing because I still have the original email stating THEY GUARANTEE sales scam or not i'm not sure but beware... …learn from my costly mistake! Posted at 8:13 pm, November 6 2008 EST”
This is the ONLY person I could find who used WiseRep. I could keep searching the web and probably find more. If your curious just type in ‘wiserep’ in the google search box and you will see all of these same blogs and press releases I found. This was 3pages into google, I stopped reading at that point, there were more blogs on the 4th page in.
Christina M. Lee
Websites:
www.creationsbychristina.net
www.leeshoregallery.com
Emails:
creationsbychristina@tampabay.rr.com
leeshoregallery@tampabay.com
Bradenton, Florida
Am Julie from Africa after reading the comments, i decided to write the following mail to David , and unlike the other times when he used to reply within hours, he has never responded, SO I TELL ALL OF YOU PLEASE RUN AND DO NOT LOOK BACK otherwise you will be conned of your money as i have concluded wiserep is not a legit company, please read on....David, I saw the negative comments posted on your blog and that answered my gut feeling which I had about your company. No one seems to have a +ve comment about your services and none claims to have made any sales through you. At this point i would like you to give me some reference I can contact about your services, well and though am in Africa i will call up macy's Wall-mart and target and actually find out if they deal with wiserep in anyway.
For me I have concluded your just another scam, if you really were legit, why not give a free offer say like for 3 months then if it works then we would be obliged to sign up and start paying the 30 usd monthly fee. I ecco most of the coments posted $185 is not cheap neither is $30 for zero sales.
over to you mr sir and if I get no positive response from you, well i will be more than glad to post my comments on your blog, negative ofcourse and restraining all from dealing with you.
If the least you should be able to give me some contacts as your reference well I will still have to contact the macy's, wall-mart and target and should it turn out to be a big coloured lie, then i will put them in the light that a fake company as yours is using them to try and steal from people then they will take action or sust post a url on ther homepage that THEY DO NOT WHATSOEVER HAVE ANY BUSINESS WITH wiswrep.
I agree Anonymous. Just a bunch of jibberish. If anyone has used this service or if anyone knows of any write-ups they've received post it. Lets hear the facts. Too much he said she said.
I received similar emails from Dave, the latest today. Anyway I tried something new and went in as a buyer. There was a registration form, but I noted that it was on an unsecure URL (w/out "https") and the information they wanted was way too personal!
Dniseland, Looks normal. I tried registering as a buyer. Got in. I tried registering as seller and was taken to a secure page..
I wonder how the reps determine who they will/will not contact with this offer.
Certainly not by perusing the goods they supposedly want to sell -- I received an e-mail from them yesterdau wanting to sell an amateur "netbook" I helped produce about a decade ago . Just a quick glance at the credits page would reveal the copyright nightmare that commercial publication would produce.
Very good idea if it works. Teh price is right. Not asking too much. I like the month to month contract. Most of these places rope you into long contracts so this is a good change. I'm going to give it a shot for a few months.
I still have found only one person who signed up. She said it was a waist of $215.00, they did nothing for her. I got on several other blogs commenting on wiserep and still no one else who has used them. I have not heard another word from them either. I think they find us because we have websites. They are trolling the sites.
I resell also and was able to open a buyer account. I spoke with a bunch of their members. Surprisingly the feedback was pretty good. Most had activiaty and several had sales. Couldnt; find anyone that sold to Wal-MArt, but that isn't my market anyway. I'm going to give thsi one a shot.
MargeB, I would be very greatful if you would give us progress reports after you sign up, as to how you sales are going, if it really works, what store contact you to purchase your merchandise. You did not say what type of products you make/sell. I design jewelry. Do you have a website, and do you sell through your site. I am just trying to get my web sales going.
Thanks, Christina
www.creationsbychristina.net
MargeB, you said you opened a buyer account, that means you paid the $215, ($185. sign up and $30 first month)? Just curious.
I just tried to open an account and that is the only way you can do it, is by paying. Let us know how it works for you.
Christina
Tara E, Did you ever have any good luck with them? Just wondering.
Christina
Penny, You said last Aug you were going to join in a couple of weeks. Did you ever join? If so, how did it work out for you?
Christina
From A Member, You said you had been using WiseRep for 3 months. What have your on going results been? Mind sharing? You should share your website info with us and what type of products you sell, so we know you are for real.
Christina
Google search Wiserep.com and scam and see for yourself
http://google.com/search?q=wiserep.com+scam
If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.
I found this
http://www.apparelnews.net/features/columns/Online-Wholesaling-for-the-Little-Guy
APPARELNEWS
Online Wholesaling for the Little Guy
by Robert McAllister, Technology Editor
June 27, 2008
Apparel wholesalers looking to sell their goods online now have another resource in Orange, Calif.–based WiseRep.com.
WiseRep provides a means to connect buyers with manufacturers and importers and vice versa over the Internet. The 2-year-old company recently reached a partnership with Macy’s, making the endeavor that much more attractive, said Vice President of Sales Jason Neely.
The site is fitting for stores such as Macy’s because of its broad product categories. Aside from apparel and accessories, it also services gifts and home accessories, beauty, books, music, toys, and electronics.
“It’s like a dating service or virtual trade show,” Neely said. “Our niche is specialty stores.”
Sellers pay $185 to set up their domains plus $30 monthly membership fees. The site is self-managed by the wholesalers, who also have unlimited access to adding and changing product offerings. The service is free for retailers. Registered stores include Macy’s, Wal-Mart, Target Stores, PacSun, Hot Topic and others.
Registered buyers need only to click the item they are interested in to place an order or inquire about additional information. The products are categorized and subcategorized for easy navigation, said Neely, adding that there’s virtually no learning curve on either side.
“The industry is moving toward the Internet,” Neely said. “It all started with [9/11]. Now gas prices are coming into play, making it more costly to travel.” In addition, wholesalers sometimes find it difficult to grab the attention of buyers at trade shows and other events because of all the competition and distractions.
“We’re all for trade shows,” Neely said. “We go to [the] MAGIC [Marketplace] every time, but it may be challenging for the smaller wholesalers, who can get overshadowed by these huge booths. That’s why they come to our site.”
For buyers, it’s just another resource to find up-and-coming labels that provide some exclusivity.
The merchandise mix ranges from Che Guevara military hats for $12.50 from All the Rage Inc. and bias-cut hemp dresses for $34.50 from People’s Hemp to beaded and lace evening gowns from CMG Ltd. for $149.
The site is growing, according to Neely. “It’s continuing to expand,” he said. “The Internet is changing the landscape of how companies operate.”
This page is starting to look like a Yahoo Finance Message Board with all the pumping being done by the company itself.
Look, plain and simple, big box retailers DO NOT look online at sites like WiseRep.com when they are looking for new products.
I just got back from China, I live in Thailand and have been involved in the product sourcing business for the last 6 years. I go to the factories where the stuff you see at Wal-Mart and Target is made.
Buying agents from these companies use large trading companies setup in Hong Kong, New Delhi, Bangkok, etc. to source their products for them. Most of it is actually sourced by another company such as Ann Taylor for example in apparel or say Rubbermaid in home accessories. These companies have agents that go and tell the trading companies what they want, then the trading companies go and source the factories for them.
Trading companies are usually bilingual and very well versed in international business standards. This means, low prices or no business. Especially for big box retailers like Wal-Mart and Target. Why would they possibly go to you WiseRep.com to find their products?? Its laughable. Don't fall for this scam. And thats what it is, its a scam that takes advantage of people's lack of knowledge.
You want to find another outlet for your goods? If you're not already on Amazon or Overstock, start there. Both sites offer tremendous potential that I can personally attest to. It takes time getting setup with them, but they can really move some product let me tell you! (If you don't believe me just check their income statement which is easily found using google.)
With Wiserep, how can it really be a scam if they're contacting so many of us?
Couldn't they also use this same aggressive marketing to contact small and large buyers as well to check out their site?
If they can get 100,000 sellers to register, whose to say they can't also get 100,000 buyers to register as well?
All I know is I've done trade shows in Las Vegas, New York, Atlanta, Miami, and LA. We spend about $4000 a show and good shows will return about $10,000+ and bad shows, you're lucky if you break even.
Ive ALWAYS learned that people who bring crap to tradeshows, don't sell anything, then blame the tradeshow. It's not the tradeshow's fault that you stink as a business person, it's yours.
If you sell crap on WiseRep, which there is a ton of, then you won't get any sales. Test it out on eBay and Amazon first and get some real feedback!
I currently sell on Amazon, eBay, and am talking with ThinkGeek. I also got the buying office for Target, which if you really want department stores, just call their corporate line and ask for the main buyer of that department or ask how to become a new vendor. But be prepared when you play with the big boys, ie: chargebacks, UPC's, and net 90.
WiseRep to me is just one more way to get another sale. If I sell 2 of my products a month on there, then it paid for itself. No big deal.
I remember when I signed up for a storefront called StoresOnline which I went to a seminar and bought the system. After I set it up and had no sales for the first few months I cried FOUL and wanted to cancel my contract with them. I googled them and found tons of warnings saying they were scammers and all the bad news I could find to justify my thoughts. I called and yelled and threatend them with lawsuits. After I talked with a lawyer, he said it wouldn't be worth the legal fees to go after them, so I dropped it. A few weeks later, I thought, well, if I cant return it, I might as well try to use it.
Long story short, I started networking and actually bringing customers to my site, with good old fashioned hard work and alot of blatant promoting and now that "store front" I thought so much was a scam, is making me $10,000 a month, no joke. But it took 2 years of real hustling not me sitting back, drinking beer and waiting for people to discover my site. I would have been an idiot to cancel one of the best things that has ever happened to me.
My newest company I started is called PosterPocket and can be viewed at PosterPocket.com and on WiseRep. It's a jumbo size, custom collage you hang up of all your 4x6 photos. I've been selling a decent amount on eBay and Amazon and have yet to sell one on WiseRep, but I just signed up last week. I just know for a fact that if you want real money, you gotta pick up the phone.
Everybody wants Macy's or Nordstrom to call them, but honestly, they have no clue you exist unless you let them know you exist. Over and over and over.
Tim, Very good advise. Sales do not happen overnight, and if it sounds too good to be true it usually is. You have to work for sales of your product to come. Let us know if WiseRep gets you any sales. I work very hard to promote my Art Gallery, I am a jewerly design artist and gallery owner, and I am just now starting to break even after two years in the business. I constantly have to promote my Gallery locally, even though I am in an Arts Community. Any success that comes, comes through hard work. I am just leery about giving out my hard earned dollars. I only wanted to hear from someone who WiseRep was working for, and I have been searching for 3 months and have found no one. And WiseRep would not provide that info either. So for now, I will spend my dollars promoting my jewelry and gallery other ways.
Christina Lee,
Lee Shore Gallery, Village of the Arts, Bradenton Florida
www.villageofthearts.com
www.leeshoregallery.com
www.creationsbychristina.com
Travis.Artz, Thanks for the good info. I felt the same way about WiseRep, felt it was a scam. I have been trying to find someone who has used them, and in three months time I found one person, who said do use them, and one who just signed up and had no report. Still waiting on WiseRep to show me why I should spend my bucks with them.
Christina Lee
Lee Shore Gallery, Village of the Arts, Bradenton, Florida
www.villageofthearts.com
www.leeshoregallery.com
www.creationsbychristina.com
right, that's just the point: there's no way to know just how effective the WiseRep program is because there are no active users online willing to share their stories and provide a small amount of credentials so we know they're not just pumping the program.
why was eBay so successful? seller feedback
why is Amazon so successful? product rating system
why is Google so successful? algorithm based on natural linking (votes of confidence by the internet community)
If WiseRep is as good as they claim to be in generating sales to retailers, where's the feedback?
Until they provide the verifiable feedback, I doubt anyone serious is going to take them seriously.
WiseRep looks legit. I think a lot of peple are uneasy about spending money these days for something they're not sure about.
I agree. I don't think they're the magic answer. I think they offer a good solution. But I also think in the end, it has to do with the qualify of your product. If you've got something thats good then stores that see it will pick up on it. If you've got stuff that is a load then I don't think anything will help.
The way Wise Rep finds us is interesting. All the posts have said they fill in the blank with whatever you are selling. I was contacted today by them and it wasn't on my business email, it was my personal. They had no idea what I sell and just said we want to sell your products. I am always getting scams like this saying "We want to sell your goods overseas...what do you sell?" How do they even know I sell anything? Thanks for the warnings- there are truthful and honest people out there that want to help small business owners do business. They are forthwright and answer questions when asked. WiseRep is not one of them. (www.amywoodthomas.com)
I cant say I am entirely happy with their refund policy having such a narrow window, I know how hair brained I can get. Are they going to give me a call in 6 months to see if I am satisfied, or if I want to continue? My guess, is that like many other companies, they hope you just forget. If it said 'WiseRep will call you to verify continuation of your subscription'...I would sign up in a heartbeat. Make it their responsibility to get back to you within that 2 week period, but that puts the work on them...anyway, you have to stay on for 6 months...so, look at it this way people. It costs $360 bucks..thats what you are going to pay...for 6 months. If you dont like it, you have 2 weeks at the end of those 6 months, to get a 50% refund..of $180...but it doesnt sound as appealing that way.
Satisfaction Back Guarantee. Between March 1, 2008 and July 15, 2008 and after September 3, 2008 we offered a promotional satisfaction back guarantee. If a seller joined within this time (no exceptions), they have 180 days from when they paid the set-up fee, to review the site. After 180 days and after the seller has paid monthly fees for 6 months, if the seller is not satisfied with the service they have received, the seller qualifies for a full refund of the set-up fee. The seller must have 6 months of paid service. Any lapses in payment caused by the members credit card declining will void the refund. Any free months issued by WiseRep will be deducted from the refund total at the rate of $30 per free month. The seller must request the refund no later than 195 days after their intiial set-up fee was paid for by writing refunds@wiserep.com. WiseRep will not issue refunds before 180 days of service. Sellers must wait at least 180 days before requesting a refund. Any refund requests received after 195 days will not qualify for a refund. There are no exceptions. If a seller requests cancellation of their account prior to 180 days of use the seller agrees that all fees paid to WiseRep are non-refundable.
Very interesting posts! Here's how things happened for me.
I recently joined a 30 day challenge (contest) - teaches you how to attract and generate money for your business (Law of Attraction stuff). Well, right after I did one of the exercises I received the same email as you all describe.
I'm interested in selling your products through our network of stores. I
think they'd be a great fit. Do you wholesale?
We work hand in hand with buyers from thousands of specialty stores, gift
shops, large chains, mail-order catalog companies and Internet shopping
sites. We need a larger variety of products they can choose from, hence my
email to you.
If you're interested in selling your products to more stores visit us at
http://www.wiserep.com/sellers.php We guarantee sales.
Sincerely,
David Thibos
Director of Merchandising
WiseRep.com
I was so sure it was the “Law of Attraction” stuff working.
I’m really impressed with the contest so far & have met some very interesting people like yourselves.
Like everyone here – I thought, “what a great idea” and couldn’t believe this came to me, just like that.
Anyways – I too am a very small business & can’t afford to be scammed. Every penny counts…
I wanted to add this – It’s not just the $ for the sake of $ - It’s really the point of being taken advantaged of.
The loss of $360.00 doesn’t make or break me. But implying that it’s JUST $360.00 doesn’t cut it for me.
Imagine – If this is a scam – $360 - He does this just to 12 people -
He would get - $4320. He could get rich of this. And that’s just of 6 months. Even half of that is a lot of money if you’re not getting the service you have paid for.
Did the research & so far I’m disappointed in what I’ve read.
Great idea about posting your website… Visited your sites & thought they were all lovely.
I will continue to follow this blog. I have to admit I’m curious as to what this is really about.
I’m hanging on to my $$$...
Jacqui @ Karma’s Herbs
www.karmasherbs.com
More Research Tonight, turned up a company called VendorPro
http://www.vendorpro.com/
http://www.scholarscorner.com/Scriptum/vendorpro.htm
Seems they made similar promises, for less money. Seems their website went down for months? I think we have a flashy crook...who has now put up WiseRep.com and made some really big claims, quick. I bet he tries to run this for as long as he can, before it gets too hot and people find out the press releases are fake? Seems this is repeat, and I bet he skates again.
I get hit by a guy like this constantly via gmail...complained to the FCC, and he still is doing it, they cant catch him...even told the guy we knew he was fake! He still keeps sending emails from google accounts claiming to be from various large (but fake) companies...hes catching people with a shipping scam. Sometimes he does a pretty good job of making the companies look legit, by posting fake histories, press releases, etc..just like this.
This almost got me, very slick looking.... If you look back in the internet time machine...this site was still incomplete as of Jan 31, 2008....lol, so this company (I believe) has not had a completed website until very recently (as of Jan, the site still looked incomplete).
http://web.archive.org/web/*/http://www.wiserep.com
Another word of caution...2.3 million hits a month? I HIGHLY doubt it... Google shows only 13,400 results...hahahah!
At one time, I had 140,000 to www.pawbreakers.com... I know hes not getting 2.3 million hits a month..hahah!
Ok, my red flag is near fully extended. In defense, after researching VendorPro (whose terms of service are nearly identical to WiseRep).... website lasted 5 years.
http://web.archive.org/web/*/http://www.vendorpro.com
My google research on VendorPro Scam found significant complaints.
SO! After my research, I think their 2.3 million hits is totally bogus, and their practices and procedures marginal at best. Probably, the old saying applies..if its too good to be true, it probably is....I have decided to decline.
Brett Buchanan
(www.edibleanimaltreats.com)
:)
Good luck!
Another thing that doesn’t sit right with me…
I’ve been internet marketing for a couple of years now, & although I’m no pro, I do know that if you are a good company, big or small – you would not need to promote yourself in this manner.
Naturally, through word of mouth and good reviews/feedback – your clients would really be doing it for you - well especially if you were doing as well as he claims.
Eg. I sell yoga swings. People that purchase would naturally share their experiences – good or bad with other people.
Seems funny to me that we can’t find any significant people that recommend Wiserep!
Be Well,
Jacqui @ Karma'sHerbs
www.karmasherbs.com
Again, just a lot of people who blowing off steam. Please keep this forum to actual members.
I agree Anonymous. Getting tired of reading things Like WiseRep will break your legs. Any real info out there?
Seems legit.
APPARELNEWS
Online Wholesaling for the Little Guy
by Robert McAllister, Technology Editor
June 27, 2008
Apparel wholesalers looking to sell their goods online now have another resource in Orange, Calif.–based WiseRep.com.
WiseRep provides a means to connect buyers with manufacturers and importers and vice versa over the Internet. The 2-year-old company recently reached a partnership with Macy’s, making the endeavor that much more attractive, said Vice President of Sales Jason Neely.
The site is fitting for stores such as Macy’s because of its broad product categories. Aside from apparel and accessories, it also services gifts and home accessories, beauty, books, music, toys, and electronics.
“It’s like a dating service or virtual trade show,” Neely said. “Our niche is specialty stores.”
Sellers pay $185 to set up their domains plus $30 monthly membership fees. The site is self-managed by the wholesalers, who also have unlimited access to adding and changing product offerings. The service is free for retailers. Registered stores include Macy’s, Wal-Mart, Target Stores, PacSun, Hot Topic and others.
Registered buyers need only to click the item they are interested in to place an order or inquire about additional information. The products are categorized and subcategorized for easy navigation, said Neely, adding that there’s virtually no learning curve on either side.
“The industry is moving toward the Internet,” Neely said. “It all started with [9/11]. Now gas prices are coming into play, making it more costly to travel.” In addition, wholesalers sometimes find it difficult to grab the attention of buyers at trade shows and other events because of all the competition and distractions.
“We’re all for trade shows,” Neely said. “We go to [the] MAGIC [Marketplace] every time, but it may be challenging for the smaller wholesalers, who can get overshadowed by these huge booths. That’s why they come to our site.”
For buyers, it’s just another resource to find up-and-coming labels that provide some exclusivity.
The merchandise mix ranges from Che Guevara military hats for $12.50 from All the Rage Inc. and bias-cut hemp dresses for $34.50 from People’s Hemp to beaded and lace evening gowns from CMG Ltd. for $149.
The site is growing, according to Neely. “It’s continuing to expand,” he said. “The Internet is changing the landscape of how companies operate.”
Best way to check them would be the BBB ONLINE. If not legit they'd have some complaints that weren't satisfied, right
Checked them out with the BBB. No complaints. They seem on the up and up. Just agressive marketing. If they're taking the time to email sellers you've got to think they're doing the same with stores.
I was contacted today with the same e-mail you have all received...as with most of the others, this was his first email to me (even though he said it wasn't)
I sent you an email a few weeks ago about selling your soaps through our
network of stores. I think they'd be a great fit. Do you wholesale?
We work hand in hand with buyers from thousands of department stores,
beauty shops, specialty stores, large chains, mail-order catalog companies
and Internet shopping sites. We need a larger variety of soaps they can
choose from, hence my email to you.
If you're interested in selling your products to more stores visit us at
http://www.wiserep.com/sellers.php We guarantee sales.
Sincerely,
David Thibos
Director of Merchandising
WiseRep.com
I have no plans at this time to use Wise Rep....just a gut feeling that it's fishy.
Thanks,
Sarah-Jane
www.olivejuicesoaps.com
I too received the email, the one that suggests they've already contacted you. One thing I always look for on a website is some kind of identifier, an address, a name, a list of contacts, etc. It's not always obvious, and sometimes you find it in a Privacy Policy. Sometimes, if it's a home based business, and they don't want to publish the address, you can get some info from WHOIS databases. And, I google their phone number. So, for wiserep.com, I couldn't find anything about them. They even use http://www.domainsbyproxy.com/ for their WHOIS contact info - a company that is meant to deliberately hide who they are. All of this tells me this isn't on the up and up.
Wow, lots of good comments. People are still getting the WiseRep email wanting to sell their products, but all these months later, we still find no one who has used WiseRep. Isn't that interesting!!!! I will find other ways to advertise my businesses for now.
All of you who posted your website here. I enjoyed checking them out. I especially liked AmyWoodThomas' paintings.
Christina Lee
www.villageofthearts.com
www.leeshoregallery.com
www.creationsbychristina.com
One more comment which might be particularly interesting to anyone thinking of signing up with WiseRep.
They contacted me by email today with the same boilerplate form letter the rest of you have received, offering to help me sell "my spices."
My blog has nothing to do with sales. I'm a food blogger who writes restaurant reviews, shares my recipes and techniques, and reviews various food products I pick up at grocery and dollar stores. I've written several reviews of spices and spice companies. Apparently WiseRep hasn't paid much attention to what I actually have written in my blog if they think I'm selling something. Makes me pretty damn suspicious; I have no doubt that they're running a scam.
I looked them up with the BBB and everything looks legitimate. They've got a good concept, I think they're just aggressive marketers.
Well its seems that a lot of people from all over the world have been contacted by this firm. I am a jewellery wholesaler from the UK, but living and working in mexico. I started my business with nothing, just a hand build basic website, and a few photo's. Although i sell basic 925 sterling silver jewellery, i also sell more arts and crafts silver by artists in town. In two months i already have orders from the UK, and the US both with big companies and both for large units. Also i have a number of smaller companies ordering small amounts. WISEREP look like they could do well for people, but they play on our lazyness and the fact that we want results NOW!!. All you bloggers, please take heart and just keep on emailing people, and companies large and small, and results will come if your product is wanted..
But again it would be nice for a wiserep member to blog and give us all a low down on what the deal really is.... any offers???
To all you small business owners in the UK, US and other parts of the world. Feel free to email me to tell me what you think, and also why dont we all join together to put on our own craft fair, and shows or as a group go to a large show and get discount on stand hire for a weekends show?? I would love to hear from all you small companies out there to share stories and see what we could all do!!!
Darren Hughes
Taxco sterling silver
www.taxcosterlingsilver.com
FYI: This is WHOIS information for wiserep.com:
Registrant:
Domains by Proxy, Inc.
DomainsByProxy.com
15111 N. Hayden Rd., Ste 160, PMB 353
Scottsdale, Arizona 85260
United States
Registered through: GoDaddy.com, Inc. (http://www.godaddy.com)
Domain Name: WISEREP.COM
Created on: 17-Oct-06
Expires on: 17-Oct-09
Last Updated on: 06-Mar-09
Administrative Contact:
Private, Registration WISEREP.COM@domainsbyproxy.com
Domains by Proxy, Inc.
DomainsByProxy.com
15111 N. Hayden Rd., Ste 160, PMB 353
Scottsdale, Arizona 85260
United States
(480) 624-2599 Fax -- (480) 624-2598
Technical Contact:
Private, Registration WISEREP.COM@domainsbyproxy.com
Domains by Proxy, Inc.
DomainsByProxy.com
15111 N. Hayden Rd., Ste 160, PMB 353
Scottsdale, Arizona 85260
United States
(480) 624-2599 Fax -- (480) 624-2598
Domain servers in listed order:
AUTH03.NS.HOSTING.COM
AUTH04.NS.HOSTING.COM
Wiserep.com is using a proxy registration service to hide the identity of the people behind the company. IMO, the operators of a legitimate business have no reason to conceal their names and locations.
Buyer beware.
It just take you 10 minutes to signup as a buyer. It is free and saves you hours on reading reviews and comments. I did the same thing and tried to search some products on the site, but the results are just disappointing. Don't take my word (or anybody else's), go and see it yourself and you will know if you want to become one of them.
I found this
APPARELNEWS
Online Wholesaling for the Little Guy
by Robert McAllister, Technology Editor
Apparel wholesalers looking to sell their goods online now have another resource in Orange, Calif.–based WiseRep.com.
WiseRep provides a means to connect buyers with manufacturers and importers and vice versa over the Internet. The 2-year-old company recently reached a partnership with Macy’s, making the endeavor that much more attractive, said Vice President of Sales Jason Neely.
The site is fitting for stores such as Macy’s because of its broad product categories. Aside from apparel and accessories, it also services gifts and home accessories, beauty, books, music, toys, and electronics.
“It’s like a dating service or virtual trade show,” Neely said. “Our niche is specialty stores.”
Sellers pay $185 to set up their domains plus $30 monthly membership fees. The site is self-managed by the wholesalers, who also have unlimited access to adding and changing product offerings. The service is free for retailers. Registered stores include Macy’s, Wal-Mart, Target Stores, PacSun, Hot Topic and others.
Registered buyers need only to click the item they are interested in to place an order or inquire about additional information. The products are categorized and subcategorized for easy navigation, said Neely, adding that there’s virtually no learning curve on either side.
“The industry is moving toward the Internet,” Neely said. “It all started with [9/11]. Now gas prices are coming into play, making it more costly to travel.” In addition, wholesalers sometimes find it difficult to grab the attention of buyers at trade shows and other events because of all the competition and distractions.
“We’re all for trade shows,” Neely said. “We go to [the] MAGIC [Marketplace] every time, but it may be challenging for the smaller wholesalers, who can get overshadowed by these huge booths. That’s why they come to our site.”
For buyers, it’s just another resource to find up-and-coming labels that provide some exclusivity.
The merchandise mix ranges from Che Guevara military hats for $12.50 from All the Rage Inc. and bias-cut hemp dresses for $34.50 from People’s Hemp to beaded and lace evening gowns from CMG Ltd. for $149.
The site is growing, according to Neely. “It’s continuing to expand,” he said. “The Internet is changing the landscape of how companies operate.”
Same story, I'm a jewellery designer contacted by this dude from arizona trying to get our money... please do the proper researchg and dont' fall for this scam. all of the posts by "anonymous" and others giving positive feedback on this blog are FROM THIS SITE! they just keep posting the same thing again and again verbatem pretty much... if they were a good company getting people sales, those people and the results would be all over the internet. follow your gut :)
www.shareenwoodford.etsy.com
Looks like a good idea. I checked them out with the BBB and everything looks good. Just need more feedback from members.
I could not find anything on Macy's site or press releases regarding WiseRep. My guess is that these guys play by the rules, which means that BBB would not have much to say if they follow their agreements. The concept is good, they just need a critical mass of both buyers & sellers. The identity thing is VERY interesting. This discolors their credibility in my eyes.
My experience with wiserep:
I have had my products on there for several months when it was still for free. I have not had a single reaction from a buyer. I received two e-mails from David Thibos in the meantime to the artist I am working with stating that he would garantuee sales. I replied to him that I already had work of this artist on his site and that I had had no interest so far. I then asked him how he would guarantee these sales. I did not get any reply.
This was a few weeks back. I just tried to log in again to the website only to find that my account was no longer working and my products have been removed ....
All in all a bit strange to say the least ...
my websites:
www.threshold-editions.com
www.jakebaddeley.com
I remember a few years ago they were free. I wish they were free now. The cost to use their site isn't too much. Maybe I'll take a stab at it.
I've received three emails from David Thibos -- same boilerplate text. Like someone else said earlier, I don't sell anything. I'm a food blogger who posts recipes about cookies around the country. I do have a couple of comments:
1) Brett Buchanan earlier wrote that WiseRep claimed 2.4 million hits per month although Google only shows them with 13,400. FYI, WiseRep may not be lying about that. "Hits" are NOT "visits" or "visitors". "Hits" are files downloaded from a server. So, if one person visits your homepage that has two text boxes and four photos, that one person just registered 6 "hits". I've run into this before. It's just highly sleazy marketing by desperate people who think we're all stupid.
2) Before I did any research at all and visited this blog, I went to the WiseRep site. As a professional marketer, the first thing I noticed was the jazzed-up landing page intended to lure in unsuspecting folks to 'sell their products'. When I went to the "Buyers" page, there was little -- if any -- effort to market to them. First big red flag. When I went to the "About Us" and "In The News" page, there was nothing, nada, zip, zilch, zero. Second big red flag. When I searched through the "Baked Goods" products that they are selling, I saw a bunch of horrid, unprofessional and unflattering photos for products I couldn't imagine anyone buying. Third and final big red flag.
3) I feel totally stupid for even getting to this point of researching them or visiting their website. As someone stated earlier, anyone who asks for upfront "setup fees" for a service-based product, RUN VERY, VERY FAST!
It seems "David" is very popular at trying to get business but loses popularity quickly when legit inquiries are asked and he seems to disappear and never to nbe heard from. Again, our company received the same email as all the others. Please advise if any others can recommend a site that does get results and has the evidence to back up any claims.
Regards
A
I checked them out with the BBB. Everything looked good. I own a store also and was able to log in as a buyer. I spoke to several members and surprisingly most were doing pretty well. I think so many people are getting emails from them they don't know what to think. I come out with a new line in July and may sign on hem.
Dave, there are plenty of reasons for a legitimate company to use a proxy service for their domain information. Specifically, it prevents scam artists and spammers from emailing us constantly! That's why I started using one - I got sick of all the nonsense emails I was getting.
I found this thread because I was looking for reviews of Wiserep - i got a 2nd email from them today. I think I'll relegate this offer to the bit bucket....
Dear All who commented on this.
I have a clothing company in Denmark. I have also been contacted several times by this service, latest yesterday. As I have a lot of stock to clear I was tempted, but I have been scammed badly in the past by a for example a "shop" in Budapest who wanted samples, which I send, that was never returned. The shop turned out to be someones private address, same thing happened with a showroom in Rome. I have also been contacted by a chain store in nigeria, which also was a great scam. I off course thought that it comming from the US maybe there was something about it, but then again I normally make all my overseas clients pay COD. I emailed with this David guy for some time, but all he ever replies is; " check our website and see how ist done. " I have read all your comments and can see that there is a lot of small buisnesses who need the sales who are tempted. I would say, dont waste your money on this. There must be some honest stores that would like to buy oru product. We need to fine another way of promoting.
If any are interested my website is www.keirclothing.com
xx Sara Keir
I want to thank to poster who recommended us, Boutique Up! Daily. We offer a free weekly newsletter which provides listings from retailers looking for new products, and also from vendors who sell boutique quality products at wholesale. We are very reputable, have a wonderful following and are free. Thank you again for the nice comment, and we welcome anyone to visit. http://www.boutiqueup.com
Hey everyone...
I recently received an email from wiserep asking the same thing as a lot of you. Then I came across this blog that has been going on for quite some time. I then went more into the wiserep site and tried to look for any solid sellers that I could possibly contact and ask them about their exprience. I wanted to find more, but only found one and it was Zero Boutique, so I emailed them. This was our conversation... (Hopefully it helps a lot more for most of you. I will not be dealing with wiserep!)...
I was wondering if you would be so kind as to give me some info... I noticed you guys are on wiserep.com... How has your experience been with them? I would love it if you gave me some info on this subject... Thanks for your time!
Matt
www.someoneclothing.com
Matt-
Hi, thanks for writing! I wish I had asked someone else before I joined WiseRep. In all honesty, we have had our stuff on there for about 6 months and in that time haven't had one single bite. Even the products we've posted on there have had hardly any views. It could be because we actually haven't posted that many products, but I'm not sure. It might be worth it for you, because it's only like $135 to join or something, but it hasn't paid off for us. Good luck!
-Jason
ZBQ
It seemed like you guys had a good amount of products on there and with the amount of buyers they say they have on their site both large and small, it seems like you should've gotten some bites. Do you mind if I pass your responses on to a blog I found about people trying to figure out if wiserep.com is legit or not, good or not? I really appreciate you hitting me back! Best of luck to you too!
Matt
No, I don’t mind at all. I have often wondered if they are legit myself. They promise “lists of buyers” which I asked for twice with no response. I think maybe they just get the money from all these sellers and don’t’ even have any buyers, or very few. Anyway send me the link for the blog, I’d be very interested to read it.
-Jason
I just read through the entire comment section and it's easy to tell who works for wiserep.com and who doesn't.
All the posts with the "Online-Wholesaling-for-the-Little-Guy" link = WISEREP SCAMMER
All the posts saying, "I used them when they were free, wish they still were" = WISEREP SCAMMER
All the posts saying, "I get small store orders and and still waiting for the big retailers to order" = WISEREP SCAMMER
All the posts saying, "LogMeIn, WiseRep, MediaContactsPro - Top 3 Business Websites" = take a guess, yep, a WISEREP SCAMMER
Multiple people don't write posts this similar, it's obviously a scam. In fact, i bet some of the posts of people saying, "is this legit? i'm interested in trying" are probably WISEREP SCAMMERS too, just trying to start some interest in the company.
Oh yeah, as of June 6th, 2009, unless I'm an incompetent fool, Wiserep is NOT listed in the BBB.org directory.
So I'm not going to tell you all to RUN: I'm just going to say "Bravo, WISEREP.com, you provide inspiration for scammers everywhere with this near-foolproof scam-site. Keep on frustrating business owners and inspiring blog comments everywhere.
I just got an email as well..
1. The subject was "RE: I'm interested in selling your jewelry through our stores" I never had an interaction with this individual before -- the use of "RE:" is a scammer trick.
2. No personalization at all. If this were legit, the guy would have done research and included facts about my biz in the email. That is just good business. This is just a scammer/spammer.
3. I looked at their website.. P-U! That thing is ugly as sin -- there is no money generated there -- if there was the site would be much slicker and not just template knock off. Also there is something else on the site that is a dead giveaway that it's a scam.. look closely.. I am not going to give it a way so that they can fix it....
4. In this economy, it's just not worth the risk on something that I can't find any industry word about. When I did do a search on his name (http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&rls=com.microsoft%3Aen-us&q=david+thibos&btnG=Search&aq=f&oq=&aqi=g1) Everything I found, was negative.
CONCLUSION:
I WILL PASS
I own a small online jewelry website, (http://www.bead-n-bling.com) and received an email this week.
"I'm interested in selling your jewelry through our network of stores. I think they'd be a great fit."
"We work with thousands of department stores, apparel and accessory retailers, large chains, gift shops, mail-order catalog companies and Internet shopping sites. We need a larger variety of jewelry they can choose from, hence my email to you. Of course, you can pick and choose who you want to work with."
"If you're interested in selling your pieces to more stores visit us at http://www.wiserep.com/sellers.php We guarantee sales."
If these guys are so good at bringing tons of business to everyone, why don't we hear about this company in the news or somewhere other than through our webmail? If so many people have doubts about Wiserep.com, shouldn't we ALL run?? If you read this entire blog, as I have, you won't find many positive experiences... just a lot of questions... not many answers. I'm glad I found this blog, thank you all for making it easy to make up my mind about Wiserep.com. I'm definately NOT interested. By the way, that was a sincere thank you. =0)
Well, after reading this blog, I will not be signing up. Received the same email as everyone else. Thank you for saving the aggrevation.
Theresa
Wholesale apparel supplier
www.tkclothes.com
David Thibos is the "slick Willy"
at Wiserep. I fiqured $180.00 was worth a go. Now that I'm do my refund nobody seems to be around. Their answering service can't find them either. Live and Learn, again.
I own a small apparel brand, we specialize in cycling and triathlon products, www.epixgear.com
Our products are very niche, and there are no big-box stores for this kind of apparel- it's all small bike shops and sports stores. So when Wiserep contacted me, saying our products were a "good fit", I knew straight away something was wrong. How is jewelry and triathlon apparel on one site a "good fit"? I know for a fact that none of the stores we sell to know about Wiserep. For sure Wiserep didn't do any research on my products, to see if they really matched. They just sent out the email, hoping for a bite. That's not the kind of service I want, nomatter how much it costs. Look, there are no shortcuts- such as sit back and pay while stores "find" you. Find contacts, make calls, send samples, and above all, make a great/unique product at the right price. Getting into stores is TOUGH. But be persistent. You won't need Wiserep.
Guys, I was contacted twice by Wiserep. After reading all the comments above, I decide not wasting my time on their website and service. I do Pearl jewelry wholesale for 5 years, i suggest this Company, Worldwide Brands, Inc
Worldwide Brands brings me stable amount of inquiries and wholesallers, on the top of everything, they provide FREE service to sellers like me.(I am not from Worldwide Brands !)
Pls google them to find the URL. This is the only company I'd like to recommend
Same Case here, i was contacted by wiserep by email, but i dont think my main product dehydrated organic mango fits wiserep any suggestions for www.dulcemexico.com ? ChiliMango
I was contacted by them 2 times now, and i am just too cautious to throw my $$ at people i don't know. I sell union made t-shirts and sweatshirts made with ALL USA COMPONENTS. There are not many shops around anymore in the USA. Everybody wants the cheapest. Our website is http://www.UnionShirtSupply.com
To those who think that Wiserep has a good rep with the BBB -- THEY HAVE AN F rating:
http://www.la.bbb.org/Business-Report/Wiserep-100083294
Run.
Wow.... all of a sudden the comments stop.
About that time I started getting emails from another site: IntoStores.com with the same wording as everybody has been getting from WiseRep, Coincidence???
A few months ago I sent you an email about selling your spices through our network of stores. We work with thousands of specialty food stores, grocers, gift shops, large chains and independent retailers around the country. We help them locate products we think will sell in their stores. I think your spices would be a great fit. We guarantee sales and you can pick and choose who you want to sell to. If you're interested in selling your spices to more stores visit us at http://www.intostores.com/sellers.php
Sincerely,
Kevin Sanderson
VP Merchandising
866-788-5799 (ext 3)
IntoStores.com
http://www.intostores.com/sellers.php
HAH!!! Same people, same offer, same wording on all pages.
intostores IS WiseRep!
Run as fast as you can....
http://www.fortuneweddingfavors.com I got contacted by Kevin at Instores.com I'm so glad I researched this. I almost jumped on the offer because I looked at the similar products that they had, and mine were totally unique. I'm honestly still considering because I can be a tough cookie when it comes to getting a refund. But he asked for almost 400 dollars to start, which is pretty steep for a small business. Pls pls let me know if this Acutally worked for anyone with a unique product. I'm so web shy now because a web designer just cheated me out of 450 dollars. Thanks!
I don't know if this intostores is wiserep or not, but it is the same spiel wiserep is using. wiserep's website is still up and running, but like others I have heard of no one being contacted by them in quite a while. I checked out intostores website and you can actually see people products listed as opposed to wiserep, but you cannot contact that person without being a member. This blog has been up since April 08, almost 2 years. I got on this blog last Jan a year ago, and I did tons and tons internet research on wiserep before I found this blog, (read my previous posts) and to date I have found NO ONE who has made a dime of wiserep. Don't know if intostores is the same people or not, but I would advise being cautious before investing your hard earned money. If you are thinking about investing do your homework. Do a thorough internet search on them, google them and see what people are saying. $400.00 is a lot of bucks in this recessed economy, I don't think anyone can afford to loose that kind of money this day and age.
I checked out all of your websites to all the new people posting here who listed their url's nice products everyone.
Cohent, I checked out the BBB link and wiserep does have an F rating.
Yes. Same folks. The names in the "press releases" that I found online are the same. Most of the wording in the releases is identical. Same tactics, same fees, same wording on the websites, same e-mail speil (IDENTICAL). Same scam.
Same wiserep people - be aware!
They have just change the name - I wonder why:)
Here's the email I just received
Subject
I'm still interested in selling your products in our stores
A few months ago I sent you an email about selling your products through our network of stores. We work with thousands of buyers from independent stores and large chains around the country. We help them locate products we think will sell in their stores. I think your products would be a great fit. We guarantee sales plus you can pick and choose who you want to sell to. If you're interested in selling your products to more stores visit us at http://www.intostores.com/sellers.php
Sincerely,
Kevin Sanderson
VP Merchandising
866-788-5799 (ext 3)
IntoStores.com
Hah! Mr. Kevin Sanderson sent me the exact same e-mail yesterday!!!!
Ya I visit WiseRep.com ones. But from my point of view it is very hard to navigate I did not find the information I want...
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