The Manji Trading Playbook
How to get the most out of working with vintage wholesalers
By Bethel Eshetu
For this issue of BeSpoke we're shining a spotlight on Manji Trading, a Toronto-based vintage clothing wholesaler and proud CAFTCAD business member.
One of the largest specialized used clothing wholesalers in North America, Manji Trading has built a 20-year reputation on hand-picking specialty and vintage-grade clothing of the highest standard. With an ever-evolving inventory and a team deeply committed to their clients' success, they've become an invaluable resource for costume professionals across the industry.
We connected with owners Salma and Salim to get their insider advice on how costumers can get the most out of working with their team.
Start early – time is your biggest asset
When it comes to getting the best results, Salim recommends the earlier you start, the better.
“We can have the most impact when you're in the planning stages,” he explained. “You can call us or email us to set up an appointment; for costume designers we usually allow same-day appointments.”
Once you're in, you'll find a well-organized warehouse where products are efficiently categorized and separated, making it easy to move efficiently through their selection.
A surprisingly wide range of services
Most costumers know Manji Trading for their inventory: with at least 1,000 hand-picked pieces added every single day, the selection is constantly refreshed.
But what sets Manji Trading apart is what they offer beyond the bins, and how far they'll go to meet a production's specific needs. Can't make it in person? They offer video call sourcing sessions, pulling items based on your lookbook or brief and shipping directly to wherever you need them.
Better yet, if you share your vision ahead of your visit, their team will pre-curate a selection for you, so when you walk through the door you're already sorting through a targeted edit, rather than the full volume of stock.
“When you come in, you're already looking through a lesser volume of stuff that's been curated to what you're looking for,” said Salim. “It saves a huge amount of time.”
And if they don't have what you need on hand? Ten members of their team work off-site daily, picking from much larger warehouses with access to a significantly wider product pool. If you're chasing something specific – 20 blue sweatshirts, a weathered jacket that reads oil rig – they can brief their picking team and have it ready for you, often as soon as the next day.
The secret to working on a tight timeline
On a fast-moving production, the key to a successful Manji Trading experience comes down to one thing: communication.
The more context you can share – such as mood, era, scene or specific quantities – the more their team can do before you arrive. Think of them less as a warehouse you shop at, and more as a sourcing partner you collaborate with.
“The people who have success with us come back over and over again," said Salim. “It's just a matter of getting someone through the door. We want to make the costumers look good to their team; that's our job.”
Manji Trading is located at 125 Norfinch Dr, North York, ON. To book an appointment or inquire about their services, call 416-492-9702.