Why Independent Brands Make All the Difference for Your Shop
When it comes to curating a shop that customers love, choosing the right brands to stock is key. More and more retailers are moving away from mass-produced goods and looking towards independent brands to bring something truly special to their shelves. But why does this shift matter, and how can it benefit your business?
At Mustard & Gray, we believe in the power of independent brands to add personality, exclusivity, and a unique selling point to retailers. As an independent business ourselves, we design and manufacture our products in our happy Shropshire studio, keeping everything as in-house as possible. By working closely with small retailers, we create products that resonate with customers and offer something different from the high street.
The Power of Independent Brands
1. Stand Out with Unique Products
Big brands and generic stockists often carry the same lines, making it harder for your shop to stand out. When you work with independent brands, you’re offering your customers something exclusive, something they can’t find everywhere else. Whether it’s our personalised placemats, mugs, or lampshades, stocking independent makers helps to create a shop full of fresh, exciting finds.

2. Quality Over Quantity
Smaller brands prioritise quality, craftsmanship, and thoughtful design. At Mustard & Gray, we design and manufacture almost everything in-house, ensuring attention to detail in every product. Plus, we work with trusted suppliers when needed, making sure that every piece we offer meets our high standards.
3. A Personal Connection
When you stock independent brands, you’re not just buying products—you’re supporting passionate makers who truly care about what they create. We love working directly with our stockists, offering low minimum order quantities, exclusivity by town/postcode, and the option to personalise designs to suit your customers.
4. Sustainability Matters
Customers are more mindful than ever about where their products come from. Independent brands are leading the way in sustainable, ethical production, reducing waste, and keeping things local. By choosing to stock businesses like Mustard & Gray, you’re aligning with a more conscious way of selling—one that customers appreciate.
5. Flexible, Responsive, and Tailored to You
Unlike big brands with rigid ordering systems, we offer flexibility and a personal approach. Need a small order to test a product? Want a custom design exclusive to your shop? We can make it happen!

Ready to Bring Something Unique to Your Store?
If you’re looking to stock high-quality, design-led homeware, gifts, and stationery that your customers will love, we’d love to work with you! Browse our wholesale collections and get in touch to discuss stocking Mustard & Gray in your shop.