Importing Lingerie for Wholesale: A Practical Guide for African Retailers
The demand for lingerie continues to grow across African markets as consumers seek better quality, more variety, and affordable pricing. For retailers, supermarkets, boutique owners, and distributors, sourcing lingerie in bulk can be highly profitable—if the supply chain is well-managed.
Wigmore Trading helps businesses across Africa source, import, and distribute high-demand categories like lingerie quickly and reliably. This guide explains what to consider when importing lingerie and how to streamline the process for better margins and consistent stock availability.
Why Wholesale Lingerie Imports Are Growing in Africa
Across West and Central Africa, lingerie has become a high-turnover product category. More consumers are purchasing bras, shapewear, underwear sets, and sleepwear that offer comfort and style. Wholesale buyers benefit from:
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Higher retail margins due to low cost-to-import.
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Consistent demand from supermarkets, online shops, and local boutiques.
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A wide variety of styles from international brands and manufacturers.
Wigmore Trading works directly with trusted suppliers, helping businesses select the right mix of designs, sizes, and price points for their local market.
Key Considerations When Sourcing Lingerie in Bulk
Choosing the right supplier is essential for quality control, product consistency, and customer satisfaction.
Product Quality and Fabric Standards in Lingerie
Retailers need lingerie made with durable elastic, breathable fabrics, and accurate sizing. Poor-quality materials lead to customer complaints and returns. Wigmore Trading partners only with certified manufacturers who follow international textile standards.
Ensuring Accurate Sizing for African Markets
Sizing variations are one of the biggest challenges in the lingerie category. Before placing a bulk order, confirm:
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Size charts
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Fitting guidelines
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Packaging details
Wigmore Trading helps clients review and verify size accuracy to minimize errors and ensure better market fit.
Price, MOQ, and Supplier Reliability
Minimum order quantities (MOQ) vary widely among suppliers. Wigmore Trading negotiates competitive pricing and flexible MOQs, making it easier for small and medium retailers to enter the market without over-stocking.
Shipping and Importing Lingerie Into Africa
Importing lingerie requires efficient logistics, proper documentation, and careful cost planning.
Choosing the Right Shipping Method for Lingerie Imports
Lingerie is lightweight, making both air freight and sea freight viable. Wigmore Trading advises on the most cost-efficient option based on:
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Order volume
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Delivery deadlines
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Target market
For urgent restocking, our consolidation service allows retailers to ship smaller quantities cost-effectively.
Clearing Customs and Avoiding Delays
Documentation errors can delay lingerie imports. Wigmore Trading supports clients with:
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Accurate HS codes
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Proper packaging declarations
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Import duty guidance
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Customs clearance assistance
This ensures your goods reach the market on time.
How Wigmore Trading Supports Retailers and Distributors
As a leading sourcing and distribution partner across Africa, Wigmore Trading provides full end-to-end support:
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Supplier identification and verification
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Price negotiation
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Quality checks
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Shipping and customs assistance
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Warehousing and distribution across West Africa
Whether you operate a boutique or supply chain network, Wigmore Trading can help you secure reliable, affordable lingerie stock from global manufacturers.
Conclusion: Build a Strong Lingerie Supply Chain With Wigmore Trading
Importing lingerie offers excellent business opportunities—provided you partner with supplier and logistics experts who understand the category. With Wigmore Trading, African retailers gain access to trusted manufacturers, transparent pricing, and seamless import support.
Get in touch with our team to learn more or contact Wigmore Trading today to streamline your lingerie sourcing.






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