Why a kilt costs what it does...a re-re-re-hash

[bricelythgoe]

It's all about finding a balance that works for the business owner and the consumer. If I wanted to work out of my house, I could, but I have a personal 'pet peeve'. I don't ever buy anything (sight unseen with VERY FEW exceptions) from a company without a storefront location, so we choose to ALWAYS offer that to our customers. We, as a company, think it adds a level of professionalism and reassurance to customers that they can visit the retailer at their store... ESPECIALLY when you're dropping $100 on a Casual Kilt or $1300 (or more) on a Premier Package. I like to SEE where my money is going and know it's to an established business that will be there in a few months time.

I guess that works for people that live nearby. For me, being in Utah, that had no bearing on why I purchased originally from you.

Brice, I think it's because the people who make kilts really love making kilts...and....there are people around who will pay for the high quality.

Brice, have you made a kilt? Have you made five or ten kilts? I suggest that you do that, and THEN talk about how it can be done in the USA for better, faster and cheaper. Oh, and while you're at it, talk to the people in Texas who used to stitch up Levi Strauss blue jeans...but don't anymore because their jobs left for labor overseas which costs 1/20th as much.

I agree with your first statement. They love to make kilts. All the people you mention probably make a fine kilt. My only point was that they have to make money somewhere. I bet that Rocky or Steve is making more than 7 dollars an hour. Which is fine. I think he deserves 40-50 dollars an hour. If the money is not made in the kilt, than it is made else where. I am betting there is a high mark up on accessories.

I have no desire to make kilts. However, I am familiair with our economic system. Capitalism is a beautiful thing. One thing it will ALWAYS do is provide better product, in less time, for less money. It always goes that way. Never underestimate the spirit of an American entrepreneur. If they do a good job, and make a better product, they will stick around. If their product sucks, then no one will buy.

The idea that you can't make it better, do it faster, and for less money in the USA is absolutely not true. Ask USAK or SHO about that.

[Whidbey78]

I've wondered how a few people make a living in this business. After pricing PV from EVERY source I could find...even skipping a night's sleep once...running up a phone bill with international calls, I had to ask myself "What is the retail markup on this stuff?" Every price I could get was a retail rate. Nobody would give me a wholesale price.

It's what keeps me from even thinking about making a tartan kilt. I can buy one for $200-$300 depending on who I go to--and these are the companies with a reputation for customer service and quality product, not something farmed out to Whatever-stan. How can they charge that price when the fabric alone will cost that much at retail? That's before figuring in thread, canvas, straps, buckles, etc. So, I'll never make a tartan kilt unless a mind blowing deal falls in my lap. I gave up on that a while ago. Why drop two bills on cloth when for a couple of dollars more a pro can do and I don't have to worry about me messing up a high dollar piece of fabric.

I too considered eventually getting into the business--part time and without brick and mortar storefront--and went through the figures several times. Even when I found a way to make a little profit I decided that my free time was more valuable.