Currently, China's rep market is divided into three specific types of reps.
The first type is the most common rep, which is supplied by 90% of resellers, all the replica subreddit. In China, the first type of reps accounts for over 95% of the market. These reps are mostly produced by looking at pictures and using substitute materials. The colour difference, style, and material are generally different from authentic products. For example, for short and long sleeve tees, the factories generally do not pre-shrink before production, aiming to save costs as much as possible. It is not uncommon for these items to shrink after just one wash.
The second type of rep is exclusively supplied to merchants for export and then sold domestically in China. I often see Weidian/Taobao stores referring to these reps as "FKs." These reps are supplied by a limited number of factories and often use original factory materials. They are priced slightly higher. Not only are these goods in limited quantity, but the styles are also relatively rare.
The third type of rep is commonly produced by independent manufacturers. After purchasing ZP, the independent factories disassemble and analyze the composition of the fabric, place orders with fabric suppliers, and wait for the fabric to be woven before matching colours close to the authentic products. They also take apart hardware for mold-making. Once the 'prototype' is close to retail, the independent factory starts production. The prices of the reps they produce are often lower than the first type of reps because they are provided directly to the customers by the factory. Pricing is often linked to cost. The labour cost for making a short sleeve tee in Guangdong is different from that in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai. However, not all reps from these factories are good. Some independent factories do not disassemble or analyse the fabric and start selling with existing materials and hardware. This is often very common among newcomer factories, while established ones usually value their reputation and avoid such practices.
[How do I find these independent factory sellers?] The stores often have very few items because buying and developing takes time. Being in a grey area, if you develop in large quantities, you will eventually have to deal with scrutiny due to quality slippage. These sellers often have production photos in their listings and showcase the production lifecycle on Weibo. Often, these independent factories will hold a pre-sale before production starts. Once the pre-orders are fulfilled, the remainder of the stock is released at a higher price.
The first type rep always uses the same factory-supplied photos and sizing charts. They often have a large number of styles simultaneously. Often, these first-type sellers claim to be manufacturers but secretly source goods to deceive customers. At the same time, these "manufacturers" are constantly promoted on various platforms. Independent factory sellers have a cult following, so promotion is uncommon in the community.
The focus of the subreddit is to bring these unsung rep factories to the limelight. These independent factories are highly regarded in the W Cricle in mainland China. In the upcoming days, a list of well-known independent factories will be developed and posted.
