Product Selection Checklist

A framework for selecting successful products to sell, based on Moiz Ali's approach with Native Deodorant.

Key Product Selection Criteria

  • Product must be under 1 pound for efficient shipping
  • Must be consumable/recurring purchase
  • Needs clear differentiation against big market players
  • Should target an existing market with proven demand

Case Study: Native Deodorant

  • Found market validation through Etsy

    • Natural deodorant was a top-selling product category
    • Identified existing sellers with good products
    • Tested multiple versions with office colleagues
  • Initial Strategy

    • Located successful seller on Etsy
    • Purchased and tested multiple competitors
    • Found best performing formula
    • Partnered with original creator to white label
  • Growth Strategy

    • Started by reselling existing formula
    • Eventually developed own manufacturing
    • Scaled up production as demand grew
    • Sold to P&G for $100M in cash after 2 years

Success Factors

  • Low shipping costs due to weight
  • Natural repeat purchase cycle
  • Clear differentiation (chemical-free/natural)
  • Validated market demand through existing platforms
  • Ability to scale manufacturing
  • Clear exit strategy through acquisition by major brands
SP

Shaan Puri

Host of MFM

Shaan Puri is the Chairman and Co-Founder of The Milk Road. He previously worked at Twitch as a Senior Director of Product, Mobile Gaming, and Emerging Markets. He also attended Duke University.

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