How should I approach local stores about selling my postcards—should they pay upfront or take them on consignment?

It varies relationship by relationship. Some store owners may connect with you personally and agree to buy everything upfront, then keep their profit when items sell. Most will prefer consignment—you leave your products and they pay you after sales, keeping their margin. There are no set rules. Start the conversation by suggesting they buy upfront, and if they’re hesitant, negotiate (like 50% upfront). Since postcards are inexpensive, many will be comfortable buying outright. Start with a few nearby stores you can check on monthly to see how inventory and the relationship are working, then expand once you’re confident there are no issues.

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Asked by an artist selling postcards at local markets · Answered by Juan · Office Hours · 2026-04-21