When You Should Carry Inventory: Key Strategies for Success

When You Should Carry Inventory

Carrying inventory is reserved for two specific situations where it makes sense to invest in stock ahead of time. Knowing when to carry inventory can save time, prevent stockouts, and ensure your members always have access to your merchandise.

1. Introducing Levels to a Special Program

You want to introduce “levels” to a special program. Introducing some type of level system to your programs is a great way to keep an attainable goal in front of your members. In the past, these ideas typically get stuck at:

"I have 6 level 1s and 3 level 2s and 1 level 3…here’s my order!"

Unfortunately, that is below the minimum, and it is not possible to make an order. However, if you plan on implementing and committing to the level system, ordering 13 of each level’s design will give you an incentive to stick with the program since you have invested in it and give your members something to strive for.

2. Extremely High Drop-In Gym

You are an extremely high drop-in gym. When I say extremely high, I mean you can easily sell 25–50 shirts a month in drop-in tees. Believe it or not, this is the 1% of gyms. Most gyms can’t sell that many shirts from visitors alone. You should order extra in this case since you know they will move.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When should a gym carry inventory?
A gym should carry inventory only when introducing a level system or when expecting extremely high drop-in sales.

Q2: How much inventory should I order for a level system?
Order enough to meet the minimum goal for each level, e.g., 13 of each design to incentivize participation.

Q3: Do most gyms need to carry inventory for drop-ins?
No, only gyms with consistently high drop-in traffic (25–50 shirts/month) should carry extra inventory.