How we decide what makes it into our catalogue (and what doesn’t)

Not every well-designed product makes it onto our platform. And that's the point.

Our catalogue isn't a random collection of products, it's a selection - and a considered one. Behind every product that makes it to Merchery’s platform is a process of evaluation that most people never see: a quiet back-and-forth between inspiration, logistics, craft, and conviction.

We sat down with the person driving that process on the European side to talk about where ideas come from, what gets cut, and what she'd add tomorrow if she could.

The curation

Where do you find inspiration for the catalogue?

It’s an everyday job. I keep an eye on everyday objects, the ones we use all the time but tend to undervalue when we receive them as a gift. I love visiting physical stores, concept stores, multi-brand shops with a strong identity, but always a clean, understated style.

How many products do you look at before one actually makes it in?

For every product that makes it in, there are maybe fifteen I initially consider. From there, it comes down to real demand for corporate gifting, whether it can be properly and durably customised, the relationship with the supplier, and a logistics check. Usually only one or two out of those fifteen make it to the catalogue.

Is there one thing a product absolutely has to have for you to consider it?

Quality, and durability over time, unless we're talking about a candle or a soap, obviously. Made in Europe and B Corp values matter a lot too.

The craft

Is there a material or craft technique you're particularly drawn to right now?

Leatherwork, definitely, and especially embossing as a technique. It's a soft form of personalisation that respects the material itself. And vegetable-tanned leather in particular, of course.Leatherwork, definitely, and especially embossing as a technique. It's a soft form of personalisation that respects the material itself. And vegetable-tanned leather in particular, of course.

The personal

Is there a brand you carry that most people wouldn't expect to find in a merch context?

I wouldn't point to just one. We carry several niche products that are more complex logistically, but really stand out. They're made in an artisanal way, with a lot of care, by suppliers who traditionally didn't do B2B at all. We're often the ones bringing them the idea.

It's genuinely win-win: we offer them extra visibility across Europe through our platform, and they offer us products you won't typically find with other competitors. Think our SWET Spicy Sauce, leather cardholder, silk sleep mask, or Palo Santo sticks.

If you could choose one product for yourself from the catalogue, which one would you pick?

I have two or three favourites, in no particular order: the silk sleep mask, the Italian vegetable-tanned leather cardholder, and the Acme porcelain mug, among quite a few others.

If you could add one dream product or brand tomorrow, what would it be and why?

Le Creuset. It's a brand I've always known and really admire for its craftsmanship, products that last, with a style all their own that never really goes out of fashion. Quality, through and through.

Curious about what else made the cut? Browse the full catalogue at merchery.co.