Know-How Exchange : Branding

Have you tried any of the TV channels that only sell stuff or infomercials? There are many successes that started on one of those programs and then retailers started clamoring for them.

If that isn't possible, how about some fun utube videos? You can do some very funny and slightly risque short videos that, if good, can start buzz and viral marketing.

The people you're approaching are telling you that they don't want to do business with you directly, not that they don't want your product. You'll probably need a sales rep. Find out where the companies you approach work with, and approach that company.

Don't neglect specialty vendors, such as those that sell baby-proofing/safety equipment for the house. Your product fits their niche perfectly.

Another resource: https://www.zfpr.com/target.htm

You may want to display at a trade show such as KBIS (Kitchen Bath Industry Show). This show gets a lot of retailers in the industry. Next one is April in Chicago. I have helped one of my clients who displayed at the last 2.
https://www.kbis.com/kbisshow/index.jsp

My client went to another consultant for some market expertise that I was not able to provide. The consultant has worked in the kitchen/bath industry for years and does know his stuff (though he sometimes speaks more than listens). May be worth connecting with him for some go to market basics. 2 years ago he had a class a few weeks before KBIS time that my client went to and found very useful (I think it was some $1k, plus travel to Chicago).
https://www.dynamicresultsonline.com/index.html

What you might try is a manufactures REP. Someone who is already in the door with other similar products. Try www.rephunter.com We had good results with them.

I've done a couple projects in this industry. You are probably in for a big surprise when you see how slotting fees, promotion allowances, discounts, returns, and a whole bunch of "hidden" costs hit you.

You need some advice/input from people who are in the business. If you contact me off-line I may be able to put you in touch with one of my clients who is still in the same general industry/category.

Some good thoughts from folks here, but the bottom line is that you're entering shark infested waters ... Be careful what you ask for ...

I suggest you make an appointment with your local Small Business Development Center(SBDC). They have people who specialize in getting products into retail.
There could be all kinds of reasons why these retail locations are turning your down.
1. They don't think your product would turn over quickly enough to justify the floor space
2. They think your wholesale price doesn't allow a large enough margin.
3. They don't think your packaging will lead to quick sales.
4. You haven't build up a following for your product with the public. Retailers have to devote time to selling & educating customers to every product in their store. Your product may take more education than they are willing to commit manhours to. I frequently turn down products that may take too many man hours to explain to customers.
5. It may be that many retailers consider your product to appeal to too narrow of a market. If a product doesn't appeal to at least 50% of the customers at a location then it has no value to the retailer. (the 50% number varies by industry)
I suggest you check with the local SBDC & go to some local trade shows to see how other products are introduced. You might also try a booth at a local home & garden show. This will give you direct imput from potential customers - nothing is more valuable.