Chan - US Swatch Agent?

What would you think of Chan having a local "swatch agent?"

Specifically, someone in Chan's hot target markets (e.g., NY, DC, etc.) who could provide access to swatches at any time throughout the year. Obviously, those needing tailoring advice would still need to communicate directly with the tailor.

But, for those who have their pattern set, I believe it would be very convenient. Instead of waiting for the next visit from Patrick and then feeling rushed while perusing the swatches, you could simply visit a local agent at your leisure.

I understand Chan will send fabric swatches upon request. But, if you're like me, you tend to want to start with the universe of navy pinstripe or holland & sherry or tweed, etc., and then narrow. Sending swatches by mail doesn't really facilitate this process. A knowledgeable agent could guide you in your choice. Even if it was an ignorant agent, you could still narrow your choices and ask for Patrick's advice via email.

There's certainly no reason to limit the swatches to suiting material. Shirting material could also be presented. Chan has only limited offerings on its website for shirts, but could offer much more with a local agent.

I suppose the major drawback, at least from my perspective, might be a dramatic increase in spending. The delayed ordering process presents me with an opportunity to pine away for something and make sure I get exactly what I want. (Although I often change my mind in the room!) But, for those with discipline the agent would not change that.

I guess there's also the possibility that the agent's offerings could be out of sync with Chan's. But, that's largely a housekeeping issue.

Is it true that many (most?) of Chan's clients in the target cities would benefit from such a service? Or are most either (i) sufficiently knowledgeable to handle the mail-order-swatch process; or (ii) interested in only ordering a couple times a year?

Or, perhaps I'm missing the boat entirely -- is there a way to sample swatches locally already for many clients? The only method I can think of would be to visit a local tailor, and that seems more than a little sketchy.

What do you guys say, any takers? Maybe Chan would even provide a small origination fee...

I suppose it's a tipping point kind of issue. There has to be sufficient additional profitable volume to warrant Chan's expense in providing such a service. And, we probably have insufficient data to conclude one way or another.

There are, of course, many ways to limit the costs.

Another issue is the ease, or difficultly, of dealing with suppliers. Chan probably decides whose books to carry in part based on that. For a tailor in NY or London, it's easy because they can either go direct to the source, or have easy recourse to a distributor. Chan would not have that luxury. So for them to carry a wide range of cloth, they would have to build a dozen or more long distance relationships. I bet they figure that is just not worth the trouble.

Manton - I'm not sure I understand your response. Perhaps I was unclear in my question.

If we set aside the issues surrounding facilities and employees, all I was thinking was Chan ordering additional sets of the swatch books he already carries and providing year-round access in NY, DC, etc.

I did not mean to suggest Chan should establish new relationships with fabric vendors, etc. Are you saying Chan would be required, by virtue of a more substantial US presence, to establish new relationships?

Originally Posted by rolls

Click to expand...

Manton - I'm not sure I understand your response. Perhaps I was unclear in my question.

If we set aside the issues surrounding facilities and employees, all I was thinking was Chan ordering additional sets of the swatch books he already carries and providing year-round access in NY, DC, etc.

I did not mean to suggest Chan should establish new relationships with fabric vendors, etc. Are you saying Chan would be required, by virtue of a more substantial US presence, to establish new relationships?

No. I guess I read you wrong. A lot of people complain that Chan's fabric selection is weak. I was just saying, they may not be that interested in expanding their offerings.

Originally Posted by Manton

Click to expand...

A lot of people complain that Chan's fabric selection is weak. I was just saying, the may not be that interested in expanding their offerings.
I'm sure this is true, particularly for the more experienced and/or knowledgeable. I, however, have been largely satisfied with Chan's selection to date. This is a valid point against US agents. If Chan's selection is quite limited, selection should be a fairly simple process. Perhaps I'm an outlier and need more time than most due to my relative ignorance with material selection.