Eye Of The Buyer: Dave Boehne, Infinity Surfboards

josh hunter

• May 22 2009
• 799 views
• 5 comments

Dave Boehne
Co-owner, Infinity Surfboards
Dana Point, California

What’s your general strategy when viewing a line?

Many times you know enough about the brand and hone in on what they specialize in. So I keep that in mind, but also keep an open mind to suggestions from the rep on certain pieces or emerging categories they are seeing success in.

How do you to prepare for a line viewing?

I grab a pen, stretch my hammy’s and quads, then usually talk Lakers basketball for 30 minutes even before the samples come out of the bag!

What specifically do you look for in a garment/ line?

Besides what the brand is known for, I like to look for unique pieces that make them stand out. [Otherwise] everything starts looking the same.

What are some of your pet peeves that reps or sales managers sometimes do during a line showing?

When they promise stuff then don’t come through with it. “Hey bro you need a new duratrans? Sick I’ll get our art dept on that!”  or “Bro, let’s get ya outta those Atwater denims, I’ll hook you up with the goods what size are you bro?” or “No worries man. I’ll RA it if it doesn’t sell!” These are just a few you tend to get!

What are some things you like for sales reps or managers to do while showing you the line?

Take a look around. Really look and see what the shop is about and what stuff we are buying from competing brands. They can get a better idea what we are looking for and why we carry their brand.

Do you write orders at the time you see the line, or after you’ve been able to evaluate what you saw with other lines you’re previewing?

I look at every brand then buy. You never know who’s going to have the best stuff, and you have to spend accordingly Many times every brand will have the same piece as everyone else but their version.  You have to really decide which brand you think did that piece better and also look at who did it cheaper.