Co-branding Merchandise

[Chief Instructor]

Has anyone tried co-branding? For example, Century and Macho will let you place your school logo on equipment and bags for a small fee. How do the students react? Does it help market your school? Or does it create too much of a commercialized feel? Respectfully,

[Chief Instructor]

I decided not to co-brand my gear. Since I sell products to other students and practitioners, I think co-branding would hinder my sales plus I wouldn't want an outsider wearing my logo. Anybody with positive experiences? Thanks,

[Jon Pack]

At this point we only have t-shirts and school patchs which we get from B/C Patch Supply and a local company respectively. I don't need to see our logo on everything. Does the macho label not show if you co-brand? I like that idea. I take all labels off everything! Belts, uniforms, etc.. I don't care to advertise for companies. I would do this if it were a student uniform or a $300 import.
Another plus for co-branding could be outside sales. I don't know about you, but I really dislike when students buy gear on thier own. In fact I have it posted on our school rules 4'x6' sign. That doesn't support the school and looks bad for onlookers when they see 10 different colors out on the main floor. I offer gear in only school colors white, black and red. This makes the sales process a little easier...less choices. This is also why we offer monthly and 6 months programs, its either one or the other. K.I.S.S. RIGHT!  
Jon Pack

[Chief Instructor]

Thanks Mr. Pack, I never though about how co-branding could prevent my students from buying someone else's products. Thank goodness nobody else in the area sells Macho products. But there's always the Internet.
For sparring gear, we go with Macho's Warrior in black. A few of the old-timers have other varieties but they eventually replace their worn-out gear with the recommended products.
Also, Macho replaces their logo with your logo. However, unlike you, I don't mind manufacturers' logos as I often try to keep a good relationship with suppliers. Plus it shows my students how I openly endorse good products.
We do not co-brand or silk-screen our uniforms for fear of being too commercialized. We try to keep our uniforms pure with only one patch. I have seen others with so many patches that they look like a Christmas tree.
When you get a chance, see my comments about your seminar posting at http://rpoelking.4dwebhosting.com/cgi-bin/yabbse/index.php?board=8;action=display;threadid=176
Respectfully, Andrew