How Outdoor Brands Can Boost Sales With Pro-Purchase Programs and Wholesale Strategies
At the latest KORE online Speaker Series, practical insights and real-world success stories were shared to demonstrate how to create loyal customers, build durable partnerships, and save time with automation.
The latest installment of the KORE Outdoor Speaker Series featured Vancouver-based Jamie McCue, Product Manager and Will McFarland, Head of Operations at Orbit Apps. The duo shared expert advice on leveraging pro-purchase programs and wholesale strategies on Shopify. They also outlined how businesses in the outdoor manufacturing sector can use these tools to streamline operations, increase revenue, and build stronger relationships with customers and partners.
Below are four key takeaways from their presentation.
1. Harnessing the Power of Pro-Purchase Programs
One of the most effective ways for outdoor brands to drive sales is by implementing pro-purchase programs, which are exclusive pricing programs for industry professionals, ambassadors, and influencers. These programs allow brands to build loyalty with key users who are often the best advocates for their products.
McCue highlighted that pro-purchase participants tend to become lifelong customers and help spread the word about products organically. However, managing these programs manually can be time-consuming. He then explained how Shopify, paired with apps like Orbit, provides tools to automate approvals, pricing tiers, and user segmentation, making it easier for brands to manage large-scale pro-purchase initiatives efficiently.
2. Streamlining Wholesale Strategies on Shopify
Many outdoor brands rely on wholesale partnerships to expand their reach, but outdated processes can slow growth. McFarland emphasized that Shopify offers dedicated B2B features that simplify order management, invoicing, and pricing structures. With the right setup, he says, businesses can create a seamless wholesale experience by:
- Offering custom pricing for different buyer segments
- Automating bulk order discounts and account approvals
- Integrating real-time inventory tracking to prevent overselling
By optimizing wholesale operations, brands can free up valuable time and focus on scaling their business rather than managing complex logistics.
3. Automating Processes to Improve Efficiency
A major hurdle for outdoor brands is the amount of manual work required to handle B2B sales, pro-purchase orders, and customer management. McCue explained that automation is the key to reducing this burden and improving operational efficiency.
Using Shopify’s automation tools, McCue says brands can:
- Auto-approve or reject applications for pro-purchase and wholesale programs
- Apply pricing rules dynamically, ensuring the right customers get the right discounts
- Sync orders with inventory management systems, reducing errors and delays
McFarland added that automating these processes not only saves time and money but also ensures a smoother experience for customers, leading to better retention and higher sales.
4. Leveraging Data to Make Smarter Business Decisions
Data is a powerful tool for outdoor brands looking to optimize their pricing, marketing, and inventory strategies. McCue and McFarland stressed the importance of using analytics to track key metrics, such as:
- Conversion rates for pro-purchase members versus general customers
- Wholesale order trends, helping brands anticipate demand
- Customer lifetime value, identifying which segments drive the most revenue
By analyzing this data, businesses can fine-tune their pricing models, adjust inventory levels, and improve marketing efforts to maximize profitability.
McCue and McFarland concluded by focusing on outdoor manufacturers in the Kootenay region and explaining how embracing pro purchase and wholesale strategies can make a significant difference in staying competitive in an evolving provincial, national, and international market. With the right tools and approach, brands can not only streamline operations but also build stronger connections with their most passionate customers.
