Why small batches matter
New brands rarely have reliable demand data. Small-batch production converts inventory risk into learning: sell-through by style, size and colour tells you what to scale.
What small batch realistically costs
Fact: unit costs at low quantities are materially higher — sampling, setup and cutting losses spread across fewer pieces. Opinion: brands should budget for development as marketing spend, not expect bulk economics on test runs.
Structure the test
Limit the first run to a tight range (2–4 styles, core sizes), document every specification decision, and agree the scale-up pathway with your production partner before you need it.