The Sell-Out Surge: What Happens When Demand Blows Up 🚨
What Happens When Demand Outpaces Supply (and Customs Gets Involved)
The Sell-Out: What Really Happened
When we placed our last order, we went way above our initial MOQ, feeling confident in the product and ready to ride the demand. And then a couple of things went viral. Amazing, but it blew up our week-over-week sales, and we completely sold out way faster than expected.
Why? We were confident in the product but wanted to manage cash flow and lead times. The gamble was working until two organic pieces of content went viral. Our sales spiked almost overnight, and suddenly, we were out of stock far sooner than planned.
On Friday, May 16, we officially hit ‘sold out’ status and had to pivot fast. Enter: our pre-order strategy. We had already set it up for the U.S., so flipping the switch felt natural, but the timing was still nerve-wracking.
The Pre-Order Strategy: Making It Up As We Go
To keep cash flow moving and reward our die-hard community, we launched a code called ‘RESTOCK.’ Anyone who orders on pre-order with that code gets priority access when the new shipment lands, plus a 10% off. Even better, they’re getting a Persephone sticker thrown in because let’s be honest, she’s obsessed with herself and wants to be on your laptop.
Our next shipment was supposed to arrive at our US 3PL last week. But it’s currently stuck at customs. And it’s not just this shipment. We placed a second order to keep up with demand, and now that’s just hitting production now. Praying for no more border delays.
Now, we’re looking at 10 more days of being sold out. Pre-orders are keeping us afloat, but it is safe to say we can’t wait to be fully back in stock.
Community Event with Cowdog
If you’re in Vancouver, you know about Cowdog. They just opened a new spot in Kitsilano, and we’re teaming up for our first-ever Sleep or Die & Cowdog event, featuring bedxnine on Friday, May 30.
Think Coffee Party vibes but at night. No booze, just moody lighting, a vinyl DJ, and an aura photo booth.
joe and I chatting all things events
Why This Event Matters: This is our first event where the goal is to just vibe and hang out. No heavy product messaging, just a chance to connect and build community.
Sleep & Sober Curiosity: With so many people leaning away from alcohol, this felt like the right moment to show up as a brand that’s all about rest, reset, and waking up feeling fresh.
Searching for a Canadian 3PL
Customs chaos has made it clear, we need a Canadian 3PL or at least a long term fulfillment option to keep things moving locally. Our U.S. 3PL has been great for managing Sleep Tape pre-orders, but we’re hitting a wall with Canadian orders, especially with a looming Canada Post strike.
Why This Matters: Shipping within Canada has been unpredictable, and finding a reliable Canadian partner could be the game changer for smoother restocks and fewer headaches.
What We’re Looking For: Someone who can handle quick turnarounds, pre-orders, and small-scale fulfillment as we grow. Most importantly, they get it and are up for taking a bet on a small business and scale alongside us.
this tour was v overwhelming to say the least
Know anyone? Drop a name in the comments or shoot me a DM. The hunt is on.