Breaking Down the Numbers: What Small Brands Pay vs. The Giants

Breaking Down the Numbers: What Small Brands Pay vs. The Giants

There’s a common misconception that new brands should be cheaper than established ones. But here’s the truth:

🔹 Big brands like Nike, Lululemon, and Essentials manufacture in massive quantities—we're talking hundreds of thousands of units per style. Because they buy in bulk, they pay significantly less for materials and production. A hoodie that costs them $10 to make? They can turn around and sell it for $120—that’s a 1,100% markup!

🔹 Essentials hoodies, for example, are undeniably amazing quality, but they cost the company almost nothing to produce. The only reason they can sell at that price is because of brand recognition and consumer perception.

🔹 Small businesses, like mine, don’t have that luxury. I produce in smaller batches, meaning I pay more per unit—sometimes 3-4 times more than major brands. A hoodie that costs me $20-$30 to make? I price it at $40-$50, which is a reasonable, fair profit margin—when you don't factor in my time 

Now, consider this: If Nike and Lululemon had my production costs, they’d be charging $200+ per hoodie.

So when people say, "Your prices are too high," I have to remind them—I'm not overcharging, I'm charging fairly.

The Profit & Loss Reality Check

Running a clothing brand isn’t just about selling hoodies and joggers—it’s about covering costs, reinvesting in growth, and trying not to drown in expenses. Some harsh realities:

🔹 Marketing isn’t free—ads, websites, and social media promotions cost money.
🔹 Vendors and pop-ups charge fees—and if people just browse and don’t buy, that’s money out of pocket.
🔹 Production costs are high—especially when you prioritize quality over fast fashion.

Despite these challenges, I refuse to cut corners. I want FMB to be a brand that represents integrity, community, and longevity—not just another trend that fades.

"Can I Get a Discount?"—The Struggle of Small Business Pricing

I love my people, but whew, the discount requests! It’s discouraging when someone asks me to "lower the price" when:

✔️ They'll drop $120 on an Essentials hoodie without a second thought.
✔️ Nike and Adidas will NEVER lower their prices for you—but somehow, small brands are expected to.
✔️ Every dollar I discount is a dollar out of my ability to grow and sustain this brand.

Look, I get it—everyone loves a deal. But when you support small businesses like FMB, you’re not just buying clothes—you’re investing in a dream, a family, and a future.

Final Thoughts: Why Small Brands Deserve Support

At the end of the day, FMB isn’t just a clothing line—it’s a legacy. I’m building this brand for my son, for our community, and for the dream of creating something that uplifts, empowers, and inspires.

So the next time you see an FMB hoodie for $50, just remember:

✅ You’re paying for quality, not just a name.
✅ You’re supporting a Black-owned business trying to break into an industry dominated by giants.
✅ You’re helping build a brand that actually gives back—because one of my long-term goals is to hire youth and sponsor young entrepreneurs.

So, is the price high? Nope. It’s just right. 🔥

💻 Shop FMB Apparel at FMBapparel.com
📲 Follow us on Instagram: @fmbapparel1

#WearTheLegacy #SupportBlackBusiness #SmallBusinessBigDreams #ForeverMyBrother #FairPricesForQuality