01/07/21
UPDATE - Janauary - February 2022
Whats Going On in 2022
Here’s to a shiny and silky 2022 for all our wonderful customers and followers as we embrace another year of change and uncertainty, but on the whole things are looking more optimistic the Pandemic seems to be losing pace a little.
It’s been a while since I last wrote so thought it was time to update you on the changes here at Dapa.
It’s been a while since I last wrote so thought it was time to update you on the changes here at Dapa.
New Fabrics
Ultra Light Gloss PU Nylon
We have been busy looking at NEW fabrics and sampling these, so now have some great new items available across most ranges.You asked for White PU, so we have responded by finding a nice Ultra-Light PU Nylon Taffeta which I am sure you will love, it is slightly lighter than our current PU, but is super glossy and feels great on.
We will be stocking this fabric in 9 additional colours initially, but will consider increasing this once we gauge your interest and there are a further 20 colours for us to choose from.
The range will be available in our Standard ranges of Retro Sprinter Shorts, Hi Cut Sprinter Shorts, Football Shorts, Hi Cut Briefs, Tanga Briefs & Pouches/G Strings. At a later point in the year, we will look to extend the range, that’s not to say we wouldn’t consider making the odd pair of trousers on request (time & fabric allowing) of course.
Pertex
Pertex performed very well in 2021 as many of our customers like the incredibly light feel of it against their skin. It’s a superb fabric as its light and dries quickly, but due to its breathable qualities its great for sports and leisure. To this point we have added 9 further colours and will add a couple more as the year progresses. White is lovely in this fabric, but consider a thong for underneath as it’s a little sheer - if you have the nerve then forget the thong and strut your stuff.
We have been busy looking at NEW fabrics and sampling these, so now have some great new items available across most ranges.You asked for White PU, so we have responded by finding a nice Ultra-Light PU Nylon Taffeta which I am sure you will love, it is slightly lighter than our current PU, but is super glossy and feels great on.
We will be stocking this fabric in 9 additional colours initially, but will consider increasing this once we gauge your interest and there are a further 20 colours for us to choose from.
The range will be available in our Standard ranges of Retro Sprinter Shorts, Hi Cut Sprinter Shorts, Football Shorts, Hi Cut Briefs, Tanga Briefs & Pouches/G Strings. At a later point in the year, we will look to extend the range, that’s not to say we wouldn’t consider making the odd pair of trousers on request (time & fabric allowing) of course.
Pertex
Pertex performed very well in 2021 as many of our customers like the incredibly light feel of it against their skin. It’s a superb fabric as its light and dries quickly, but due to its breathable qualities its great for sports and leisure. To this point we have added 9 further colours and will add a couple more as the year progresses. White is lovely in this fabric, but consider a thong for underneath as it’s a little sheer - if you have the nerve then forget the thong and strut your stuff.
New Lines
We have a couple of new lines in the planning stage for this year. I don’t want to say too much at this point (walls have ears) but I am sure many of you will love what we have in mind. We have been asked to run these products for sometime now and we are now researching how best to bring them to fruition!
New Lines
We have a couple of new lines in the planning stage for this year. I don’t want to say too much at this point (walls have ears) but I am sure many of you will love what we have in mind. We have been asked to run these products for sometime now and we are now researching how best to bring them to fruition!
Philosophy
We continue to remain the cheapest seller of this sort of product (based on quality) but unfortunately throughout the month of February we will need to raise out prices a little, at the same point remaining competitive. The reason for the small increase is due to the economic pressures caused by the Pandemic & Brexit. The costs of raw materials have soared across the world as have transportation & labour costs. I will keep this increase to a bare minimum and will ensure our postal costs remain based on Royal Mail's postal charges to stay competitive.
We have always led the way in this field, being the first and the original in creating the revival of 70s and 80s shorts, over 12 years ago now. So when shopping with us you are dealing with professionals who have your back. In all business there is always competition, which is heathy as it keeps everyone on their toes, so thank you all for your continued and unrivalled support. Our goal has always been to deliver QUALITTY to ALL at FAIR PRICES and believe this is where we still have the edge.
We believe this is why our customer base remains loyal, we love what we do and we are glad to see you do to.
More information on how we deal with European transaction can be found in our July 21 News Update. Should you have any questions please send us a message and we will endeavour to answer them for you.
We continue to remain the cheapest seller of this sort of product (based on quality) but unfortunately throughout the month of February we will need to raise out prices a little, at the same point remaining competitive. The reason for the small increase is due to the economic pressures caused by the Pandemic & Brexit. The costs of raw materials have soared across the world as have transportation & labour costs. I will keep this increase to a bare minimum and will ensure our postal costs remain based on Royal Mail's postal charges to stay competitive.
We have always led the way in this field, being the first and the original in creating the revival of 70s and 80s shorts, over 12 years ago now. So when shopping with us you are dealing with professionals who have your back. In all business there is always competition, which is heathy as it keeps everyone on their toes, so thank you all for your continued and unrivalled support. Our goal has always been to deliver QUALITTY to ALL at FAIR PRICES and believe this is where we still have the edge.
- We regularly add new ranges and fabrics whilst keeping the originals at the forefront of what we do.
- We offer value for money pricing ensuring we only increase prices in line with market factors and overheads.
- We offer a clear and concise returns policy, even though it is used very rarely, to ensure you are fully satisfied.
- We offer different payment methods to ensure your shopping experience is what you expect from us.
- We ship worldwide, with very few exclusions. We don’t exclude countries just because rules make it difficult for us, we do what we need to make it happen.
- We are IOSS registered, which most of our competitors are not. This means we can take and process orders from the EU and deal with your countries tax requirements so you don’t have to and you experience fewer delays.
We believe this is why our customer base remains loyal, we love what we do and we are glad to see you do to.
More information on how we deal with European transaction can be found in our July 21 News Update. Should you have any questions please send us a message and we will endeavour to answer them for you.
Shipping & Handling
Due to the ongoing Pandemic, there are still some issues out there where delays are occurring due to back log and staff shortages. Currently Italy, Spain, Chile & other parts of South America are suffering delays. Overall most of Europe, America, Canada & Australia are working to NEAR normal timings.
The New EU Trade Agreement occasionally throws up an issue at border control or local postal depots as not every country is as up to speed on what is required and where to find them. We comply with the agreement fully ensuring a full CN22 is added to every parcel showing commodity code, value of goods and our VAT number. The parcel label carries all the tracking info & IOSS info electronically embedded. The parcel label will also have an “IOSS DOT” on it which states to the receiving customs that Duty has been collected and paid by Dapa Designs to the EU Intermediary and allocated to your country. This means your parcel should travel as if it were internal mail once its cleared customs. Should you experience any issues with border control/postal service we are able to send you a copy of the invoice (enclosed with your goods), a copy of our IOSS number and a copy of the upload to the intermediary. this means they should have NO reason to hold anything as they have all the information required. We have only had a couple of incidents since the system started and they tended to be Portugal, Ireland and one area in Germany but on the whole it works seamlessly.
Due to the ongoing Pandemic, there are still some issues out there where delays are occurring due to back log and staff shortages. Currently Italy, Spain, Chile & other parts of South America are suffering delays. Overall most of Europe, America, Canada & Australia are working to NEAR normal timings.
The New EU Trade Agreement occasionally throws up an issue at border control or local postal depots as not every country is as up to speed on what is required and where to find them. We comply with the agreement fully ensuring a full CN22 is added to every parcel showing commodity code, value of goods and our VAT number. The parcel label carries all the tracking info & IOSS info electronically embedded. The parcel label will also have an “IOSS DOT” on it which states to the receiving customs that Duty has been collected and paid by Dapa Designs to the EU Intermediary and allocated to your country. This means your parcel should travel as if it were internal mail once its cleared customs. Should you experience any issues with border control/postal service we are able to send you a copy of the invoice (enclosed with your goods), a copy of our IOSS number and a copy of the upload to the intermediary. this means they should have NO reason to hold anything as they have all the information required. We have only had a couple of incidents since the system started and they tended to be Portugal, Ireland and one area in Germany but on the whole it works seamlessly.
New Category
YUP! that's right, we have just added a new category to the site where we will sell clearance items.
Clearance will be a selection of goods whichwe have either made for samples & photography, display items from the show area when we update & also items from fabrics we have bought to view but decided not to stock. There is a chance of getting a real “ONE OFF” that nobody else has. We will also include customer returns when we get them, these will only be retursn which have arrived back as per return policy, unworn and in A1 condition. These will be rare as we get very few returns but occasionally someone does order the wrong size. We have always done our clearance lines on eBay, but why should it not be our loyal returning customs that get the first chance of a reduced item.
We will no longer do clearance on eBay. Stock will change, and it will sometime be completely empty but it’s worth looking whenever you visit you may just find a bargain.
The Clearance section will NOT form part of any future offers so if you choose a clearance item this will not be further reduced at checkout.
YUP! that's right, we have just added a new category to the site where we will sell clearance items.
Clearance will be a selection of goods whichwe have either made for samples & photography, display items from the show area when we update & also items from fabrics we have bought to view but decided not to stock. There is a chance of getting a real “ONE OFF” that nobody else has. We will also include customer returns when we get them, these will only be retursn which have arrived back as per return policy, unworn and in A1 condition. These will be rare as we get very few returns but occasionally someone does order the wrong size. We have always done our clearance lines on eBay, but why should it not be our loyal returning customs that get the first chance of a reduced item.
We will no longer do clearance on eBay. Stock will change, and it will sometime be completely empty but it’s worth looking whenever you visit you may just find a bargain.
The Clearance section will NOT form part of any future offers so if you choose a clearance item this will not be further reduced at checkout.
UPDATE 08/07/2021 - EU CUSTOMERS - PLEASE READ PRIOR TO PLACING ANY ORDER
Hi everyone.
I am sure by now you will have read the "ECOMMERCE TRADING UPDATE" that we issued on the 1st July 2021
In this we explained the changes to eccommerce from the 1st July. At that point we had not managed to secure our IOSS number and therefore had to continue trading as we had been since January 2021. Today things have changed and we have now recieved our IOSS number. What this means for our EU customers, is no more hassle with customs and additional charges on orders placed today from 4pm. This does not include ANY order placed between 10am on the 1st July to 3.59pm today BST. This should speed up delivery as all VAT will have been paid and all information will be electroniclly sent to your country's customs. This is really exciting for you as the customer and us equally as it is now effectivelly "Business as Normal".
Below are some basic points to be aware of...
There is a link to the EU commision Explaining the New Sceme, why and how it works - Its worth a read!!
Have a great day everyone & heres to easy shopping again :)
I am sure by now you will have read the "ECOMMERCE TRADING UPDATE" that we issued on the 1st July 2021
In this we explained the changes to eccommerce from the 1st July. At that point we had not managed to secure our IOSS number and therefore had to continue trading as we had been since January 2021. Today things have changed and we have now recieved our IOSS number. What this means for our EU customers, is no more hassle with customs and additional charges on orders placed today from 4pm. This does not include ANY order placed between 10am on the 1st July to 3.59pm today BST. This should speed up delivery as all VAT will have been paid and all information will be electroniclly sent to your country's customs. This is really exciting for you as the customer and us equally as it is now effectivelly "Business as Normal".
Below are some basic points to be aware of...
There is a link to the EU commision Explaining the New Sceme, why and how it works - Its worth a read!!
Have a great day everyone & heres to easy shopping again :)
- All listings are shown exclusive of VAT and this will be added at checkout, at your country's rate, which we collect and pay to your goverment.
- European orders under €150 (£125) will have VAT collected at checkout and orders will have an IOSS number added to the parcel, allowing it to clear customs without occuring additional charges.
- European orders over €150 (£125) will be classed as an import and will therefore have VAT and DUTY added at point of entry to your country. We have NO control over this and is an EU led directive. We would advise customers to keep individual orders, under this amount as the import duty can be high. In most cases, it would be cheaper and quicker for you to purchase two smaller orders and pay post on each & have them sent seperatly.
- The declared value of an order will be the NET value and not the GROSS value. This will not include or show the postage charges or the VAT on the customs label. Please bear this in mind when ordering and work the the order total before VAT & Postage.
- If you do want to place an order over €150, it is best to contact us first via email. We can then send you a zero VAT invoice, as the website system will automaticaly show and add the VAT. We have no way of setting a level of £150 in the intergration. By contacting us you will not be OVER CHARGED. Any questions please email us sales@dapadesignsltd.com
UPDATE 01/07/2021
IMPORTANT ECCOMMERCE TRADING UPDATE
PLEASE READ
Many of you will be aware that the face of ecommerce distance selling has changed in the past 6 months, many marketplaces have changed the way they operate for both sellers and buyers as they prepare themselves for the additional changes which came into force today.
The new rules and legislation have been put into place to ensure a level playing field within the EU and indeed internationally ensuring that the European sellers are not at a disadvantage to sellers from outside the EU who have been exempt on having to pay VAT on items sold to European Clients which are below 22 Euros this was totally unfair, it did however also work in reverse. From today that exemption is no longer in place and ALL buyers have to pay VAT on all purchases at their countries rate and this is paid to the seller at checkout. The seller has to pay that VAT to the country where the customer lives VIA the IOSS (Import One Stop Shop). Alternatively the VAT will be chargeable on entry to the customers country and will be collected by the Post Company or customs. As it wasn’t taken at checkout this applies to all sales (Ex VAT & Postage) to the Value of 150 Euro (approximately £125 GBP on our site). All sales above this amount from any retailer importing into the EU, the VAT will be collected by customs on import.
Many companies will have registered for the IOSS Scheme as it will simplify the situation for the customer as there would be no taxes (VAT) to worry about, as the seller will have dealt with these. In an ideal world this would be fantastic, however it is incredibly expensive for small retailers to sign up at this time as it can only be done through registering within an EU country and to do this you need to use an intermediary, pay for the registration, monthly filing and indeed a major security waver, which most small business just cannot afford. The UK businesses will hopefully be able to register via the UK HMRC shortly and able to pay the relevant VAT via the UK portal. Until this point many of us small UK and International businesses will be unable to register for the IOSS Scheme.
All this will mean for OUR European buyers, until the IOSS is in place, will be that we will continue to operate as we have since Brexit, so no real change. This means that you as the customer will be responsible for the Tax etc (VAT) upon entry to your country. Once we can register in the UK and set up the IOSS system, we will update all customers to advise them that we will be taking and paying the VAT for them, until that point your customs will arrange to collect your VAT. To reduce holdups at customs etc please ENSURE you supply an email address and a contact number for customs to be able to contact you. We have only had a small number of returns since Brexit, but on each occasion, this has been because customs are unable to contact the customer to collect the VAT. This does not affect UK buyers, buying, but will affect UK buyers buying from the EU or internationally.
All our prices are show EX VAT. If you are in the UK, you will have the UK VAT added at checkout, which will be the same as you were paying up to 30th June 21, so no change other than the process. For International and European sellers until IOSS is established you will pay us the zero VAT, any postage etc and the VAT/Sales Tax/GST etc will collected on entry into your country if applicable. Some Countries/States do not charge Import taxes. Once IOSS is available to us EU VAT will be collected at checkout as we do for the UK and then paid to your country via the IOSS. Parcels will have a special IOSS number on them to ensure they clear customs clearance.
All customers need to ensure when adding their details at checkout that they enter the correct country code, this is your responsibility. Currently, it defaults to GB. Failure to do this will result in us cancelling your order and you needing to re submit as we have no access to those fields from our end they can only be dealt with by the customer due to Data Protection. My advice would be to set up a log in and hold your basic details on Dapa website. We would also reiterate our advice to use tracked postage, which is offered on all listings. This helps to speed up delivery, is safer for you and allows us to assist if there is an issue of late delivery etc. Without tracking we are as much in the dark about a late parcel as you are and have no access to the receiving countries customs or postal departments.
There should be nothing here to worry you as overall nothing major is changing at this time and when IOSS is available it will only be an additional improvement, so it’s all good for all parties.
Please note this is not a UK directive it is an EU directive which all countries have to work within if they wish to trade with eu countries (which we do) and is in place to create fairness across the ecommerce market places. Hence why Ebay, Amazon, Etsy, Ali Express and many more marketplaces have changed their systems and practises, it now makes ecommerce trading transparent and even safer.
If you have any questions, please email us. We will do our best to assist, but can only do so in general terms and from the perspective of the UK as each country may have a slightly different approach.
Below is a link to the European commission which gives a little insight into the changes and gives you an opportunity to look further if you have more detailed questions.
https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/business/vat/vat-e-commerce_en
Dave
The new rules and legislation have been put into place to ensure a level playing field within the EU and indeed internationally ensuring that the European sellers are not at a disadvantage to sellers from outside the EU who have been exempt on having to pay VAT on items sold to European Clients which are below 22 Euros this was totally unfair, it did however also work in reverse. From today that exemption is no longer in place and ALL buyers have to pay VAT on all purchases at their countries rate and this is paid to the seller at checkout. The seller has to pay that VAT to the country where the customer lives VIA the IOSS (Import One Stop Shop). Alternatively the VAT will be chargeable on entry to the customers country and will be collected by the Post Company or customs. As it wasn’t taken at checkout this applies to all sales (Ex VAT & Postage) to the Value of 150 Euro (approximately £125 GBP on our site). All sales above this amount from any retailer importing into the EU, the VAT will be collected by customs on import.
Many companies will have registered for the IOSS Scheme as it will simplify the situation for the customer as there would be no taxes (VAT) to worry about, as the seller will have dealt with these. In an ideal world this would be fantastic, however it is incredibly expensive for small retailers to sign up at this time as it can only be done through registering within an EU country and to do this you need to use an intermediary, pay for the registration, monthly filing and indeed a major security waver, which most small business just cannot afford. The UK businesses will hopefully be able to register via the UK HMRC shortly and able to pay the relevant VAT via the UK portal. Until this point many of us small UK and International businesses will be unable to register for the IOSS Scheme.
All this will mean for OUR European buyers, until the IOSS is in place, will be that we will continue to operate as we have since Brexit, so no real change. This means that you as the customer will be responsible for the Tax etc (VAT) upon entry to your country. Once we can register in the UK and set up the IOSS system, we will update all customers to advise them that we will be taking and paying the VAT for them, until that point your customs will arrange to collect your VAT. To reduce holdups at customs etc please ENSURE you supply an email address and a contact number for customs to be able to contact you. We have only had a small number of returns since Brexit, but on each occasion, this has been because customs are unable to contact the customer to collect the VAT. This does not affect UK buyers, buying, but will affect UK buyers buying from the EU or internationally.
All our prices are show EX VAT. If you are in the UK, you will have the UK VAT added at checkout, which will be the same as you were paying up to 30th June 21, so no change other than the process. For International and European sellers until IOSS is established you will pay us the zero VAT, any postage etc and the VAT/Sales Tax/GST etc will collected on entry into your country if applicable. Some Countries/States do not charge Import taxes. Once IOSS is available to us EU VAT will be collected at checkout as we do for the UK and then paid to your country via the IOSS. Parcels will have a special IOSS number on them to ensure they clear customs clearance.
All customers need to ensure when adding their details at checkout that they enter the correct country code, this is your responsibility. Currently, it defaults to GB. Failure to do this will result in us cancelling your order and you needing to re submit as we have no access to those fields from our end they can only be dealt with by the customer due to Data Protection. My advice would be to set up a log in and hold your basic details on Dapa website. We would also reiterate our advice to use tracked postage, which is offered on all listings. This helps to speed up delivery, is safer for you and allows us to assist if there is an issue of late delivery etc. Without tracking we are as much in the dark about a late parcel as you are and have no access to the receiving countries customs or postal departments.
There should be nothing here to worry you as overall nothing major is changing at this time and when IOSS is available it will only be an additional improvement, so it’s all good for all parties.
Please note this is not a UK directive it is an EU directive which all countries have to work within if they wish to trade with eu countries (which we do) and is in place to create fairness across the ecommerce market places. Hence why Ebay, Amazon, Etsy, Ali Express and many more marketplaces have changed their systems and practises, it now makes ecommerce trading transparent and even safer.
If you have any questions, please email us. We will do our best to assist, but can only do so in general terms and from the perspective of the UK as each country may have a slightly different approach.
Below is a link to the European commission which gives a little insight into the changes and gives you an opportunity to look further if you have more detailed questions.
https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/business/vat/vat-e-commerce_en
Dave
16/12/20
THE WAY FORWARD - POST BREXIT
Update from Dave
As we rapidly approach December 31st and the UK’s exit from the EU following the transition period, I find myself hoping beyond hope that all sides can strike a deal, which can work for all. Whilst the UKs decision to leave the EU was taken following a national vote, that does not infer that it was a runaway decision, many UK Businesses and indeed individuals 47% did not vote to leave the EU, but democracy is that and therefore we will unfortunately not be part of the EU on the 1st January 2021 – a sad day.
Here at Dapa we remain positive and hopeful that our delivery of quality and supply of hard-to-find goods to you over the past 7 years has earned us a place in your heart just as it has in your wardrobe. We are grateful to every single customer/friend who shops with us, helps us grow and supports us in what we do, with many of you returning often. We look forward to being of service to you for many years to come and have every intention of remaining an international seller. This does mean there will some changes to our processes etc, between us and our European partners. In essence, these will be no different than those we have in place for our international clients. These changes will initially feel strange to you as a buyer and us as the seller, however we will get through this together, they are just a new way of working.
As I have said, things will change and even at this point we do not have all the answers, but we can assure you we are getting ready. The most likely changes to our customers shopping experience are going to be!
As all the new procedures come into place in the UK and Europe from 1st January 2021, some of the above points may also apply to items currently in manufacture or transit. any orders placed between the 23rd December and 1st January may result in short delays due to the new customs regulations. This will be a bit of a learning curve for both parties, but we will work our way through it.
Some of the above points will also apply to our domestic customers, postage costs & price changes – for example.
As we embark on this new journey, hopefully together, I would like to thank you for your loyalty and support of our business and look forward to assisting you in the future. This will be an adventure and what currently seems strange and maybe even confusing right now but we will take it in our stride. What won’t change, is You & Us, our products, our service, or our continued commitment to deliver. We will strive to make the transition to the new way of doing business as smooth and hassle free as possible at the same point remaining happy and upbeat. Please bear with us during this time of change as there may be some teething problems which we will need to work through.
I will draw this letter to an end now, I would like to wish you all a great Festive period with your loved ones from all at Dapa and here is to 2021 “The New Normal” whatever it may look like.
Dave
Here at Dapa we remain positive and hopeful that our delivery of quality and supply of hard-to-find goods to you over the past 7 years has earned us a place in your heart just as it has in your wardrobe. We are grateful to every single customer/friend who shops with us, helps us grow and supports us in what we do, with many of you returning often. We look forward to being of service to you for many years to come and have every intention of remaining an international seller. This does mean there will some changes to our processes etc, between us and our European partners. In essence, these will be no different than those we have in place for our international clients. These changes will initially feel strange to you as a buyer and us as the seller, however we will get through this together, they are just a new way of working.
As I have said, things will change and even at this point we do not have all the answers, but we can assure you we are getting ready. The most likely changes to our customers shopping experience are going to be!
- Slightly longer delivery times MIGHT happen, due to customs control, but this should be minimal as we will have all the correct customs information on the posted packet just like we do for other countries where customs are involved. We have found our customs submissions and delivery into other countries has happened without incident, so feel confident that we have what is needed, in place to move forward.
- Item prices could reduce a little, but this will not be a massive change as we have already received communications from our suppliers, informing us that prices for our raw materials will be increasing on 1st January. This is not just down to Brexit; it happens every year and we can usually absorb the increase as it is relatively small. This year’s increases are somewhat higher, COVID-19 having played a part in businesses along the supply chain. Our prices will however remain fair and competitive.
- It is my understanding that the buyer will be responsible for duty (Tax) at your countries rate on goods you buy from the UK, as it is if you buy from countries outside the EU. I am unaware what arrangements your individual country will take, but here in the UK, when we buy from abroad, if the purchase price is over a set level it will be subject to duty. We are then informed we need to pay the duty before it is delivered, which we do online and then the parcel is released for delivery as normal.
- Postage will of course change as it does every year and unfortunately this never happens in a downward fashion. We aim to put the new price changes into operation before we shut down for Christmas. This will give us the opportunity to investigate extra postage options, at this time we are still in conversations with a couple of couriers. We have always advised you to opt for Tracked postage, which is to help protect yourself. We will continue to advise tracked postage moving forward as it will help highlight any possible delays in transit and should let you know if anything is being processed by customs. Please do review our postal charts on our dispatch page, there are opportunities to save on postage when buying more items in one transaction rather than buying single items.
- Our returns policy will extend from 14 days to 30 days, to allow for any delays at customs. The buyer will remain responsible for return costs unless an item is faulty as it always has been, we will however continue to deal with any possible return in a timely and professional but personal basis.
As all the new procedures come into place in the UK and Europe from 1st January 2021, some of the above points may also apply to items currently in manufacture or transit. any orders placed between the 23rd December and 1st January may result in short delays due to the new customs regulations. This will be a bit of a learning curve for both parties, but we will work our way through it.
Some of the above points will also apply to our domestic customers, postage costs & price changes – for example.
As we embark on this new journey, hopefully together, I would like to thank you for your loyalty and support of our business and look forward to assisting you in the future. This will be an adventure and what currently seems strange and maybe even confusing right now but we will take it in our stride. What won’t change, is You & Us, our products, our service, or our continued commitment to deliver. We will strive to make the transition to the new way of doing business as smooth and hassle free as possible at the same point remaining happy and upbeat. Please bear with us during this time of change as there may be some teething problems which we will need to work through.
I will draw this letter to an end now, I would like to wish you all a great Festive period with your loved ones from all at Dapa and here is to 2021 “The New Normal” whatever it may look like.
Dave
UPDATE 07/12/20
HAPPY CHRISTMAS
So as 2020 nears the finishing post I find myself reviewing the year and what a year it has been! it has been a year full of changes, some good and some not so good. COVID-19 has knocked our world for six, with many people loosing loved ones and many businesses going to the wall due to massive drops in trade & unfortunately, it’s still not over.
Here at Dapa Designs, I feel very blessed as we are still hanging on in there, yes of course COVID-19 has impacted our business as it has with most others but your loyalty and the resolve of our fantastic team has meant that as we near the end of the year we are still in the game. Our customers are key to any success we have, and this year has been no exception, you have been superb, for which we are very humbled and greatfull for – Thank you.
Its also just over a year since we transitioned from our previous website host to our new platform & host, at the same time moving card processors. Initially we were worried as it was quite different for us and indeed you, but we hoped that being able to offer better payment options alongside additional choices would prove a positive move. I am therefore so pleased to update you and inform you that it really has. Many customers now use the efficient card processing option over PayPal, Order size has improved due to extra choice and the website is now more than half of our annual sales, this time last year our website only accounted for 16% of our sales, so this has been a massive improvement for us and hopefully you, so long may it continue.
We have spent a lot of time, effort and stock trying to improve our imagery to ensure we have a modelled picture for all our items (Not all our options obviously – this would be impossible) and we are getting there, we still have a way to go but we have another 200 items on the way to our model & Photographer which I hope to have back and uploaded before the New Year. This last batch will ensure that we have pictures for all Underwear, football, Sprinter and Hi Cur Sprinter Shortsplus a couple of new lines too. We will start to work on Trousers, Leisure and Boxing Shorts early next year, so once we get to every item pictured on a model it will be easier to stay on top off and easier to add additional lines/colours etc..
So, what does the future Look like
Continue to build the range
Investigate new fabrics and suppliers
Introduce new ranges and products including toiletries & male fragrance
Work with our international Partners
Slowly distance ourselves from eBay, to further build and support our own platform.
Investigate further payment options (Sage, Google and Apple)
To improve our communications – more regular updates monthlyupdates if possible, Newsletters and daily/ weekly blogs
To further develop our social media interaction, page content and available options
To look at our processes to see where improvements can be made
To run occasional loyalty offers (only available to customers of the website – Not available on other platforms)
We see the coming year as eventful and full of challenges with opportunities to work with and communicate with you our backbone. We want this business to have a long-term future, we are now seven years in with a history of growth and development and many of you have been with us since the beginning, “some probably have more shorts in their houses than we do in the showroom” (you know who you are!!! TY) so we will strive to build and develop a business that works for you, encourages you to stay with us and values your loyalty.
On a personal note, I would like to take this opportunity to THANK YOU for supporting Dapa Dapa Designs, we are only a very small business (much smaller than most people think), we don’t have loads of staff, just a couple of stars who work with diligence and pride to help us bring our huge range to you. When I started the business in 2013 following a false start in 2009 as Sportsretro, I never imagined it would be where it is now, it was only ever meant to be a little bit of pocket money on top of my main job, well 7 years on and its my life and I love what i do which is all thanks to every single one of you, so I salute you – One and all TY.
I would like to wish you a Safe, Sane and Very Merry Festive period, from the whole Dapa Team whilst wishing you a much brighter 2021, with a hope to returning to normality soon - Stay safe out there all.
Here at Dapa Designs, I feel very blessed as we are still hanging on in there, yes of course COVID-19 has impacted our business as it has with most others but your loyalty and the resolve of our fantastic team has meant that as we near the end of the year we are still in the game. Our customers are key to any success we have, and this year has been no exception, you have been superb, for which we are very humbled and greatfull for – Thank you.
Its also just over a year since we transitioned from our previous website host to our new platform & host, at the same time moving card processors. Initially we were worried as it was quite different for us and indeed you, but we hoped that being able to offer better payment options alongside additional choices would prove a positive move. I am therefore so pleased to update you and inform you that it really has. Many customers now use the efficient card processing option over PayPal, Order size has improved due to extra choice and the website is now more than half of our annual sales, this time last year our website only accounted for 16% of our sales, so this has been a massive improvement for us and hopefully you, so long may it continue.
We have spent a lot of time, effort and stock trying to improve our imagery to ensure we have a modelled picture for all our items (Not all our options obviously – this would be impossible) and we are getting there, we still have a way to go but we have another 200 items on the way to our model & Photographer which I hope to have back and uploaded before the New Year. This last batch will ensure that we have pictures for all Underwear, football, Sprinter and Hi Cur Sprinter Shortsplus a couple of new lines too. We will start to work on Trousers, Leisure and Boxing Shorts early next year, so once we get to every item pictured on a model it will be easier to stay on top off and easier to add additional lines/colours etc..
So, what does the future Look like
Continue to build the range
Investigate new fabrics and suppliers
Introduce new ranges and products including toiletries & male fragrance
Work with our international Partners
Slowly distance ourselves from eBay, to further build and support our own platform.
Investigate further payment options (Sage, Google and Apple)
To improve our communications – more regular updates monthlyupdates if possible, Newsletters and daily/ weekly blogs
To further develop our social media interaction, page content and available options
To look at our processes to see where improvements can be made
To run occasional loyalty offers (only available to customers of the website – Not available on other platforms)
We see the coming year as eventful and full of challenges with opportunities to work with and communicate with you our backbone. We want this business to have a long-term future, we are now seven years in with a history of growth and development and many of you have been with us since the beginning, “some probably have more shorts in their houses than we do in the showroom” (you know who you are!!! TY) so we will strive to build and develop a business that works for you, encourages you to stay with us and values your loyalty.
On a personal note, I would like to take this opportunity to THANK YOU for supporting Dapa Dapa Designs, we are only a very small business (much smaller than most people think), we don’t have loads of staff, just a couple of stars who work with diligence and pride to help us bring our huge range to you. When I started the business in 2013 following a false start in 2009 as Sportsretro, I never imagined it would be where it is now, it was only ever meant to be a little bit of pocket money on top of my main job, well 7 years on and its my life and I love what i do which is all thanks to every single one of you, so I salute you – One and all TY.
I would like to wish you a Safe, Sane and Very Merry Festive period, from the whole Dapa Team whilst wishing you a much brighter 2021, with a hope to returning to normality soon - Stay safe out there all.
UPDATE 04/04/20
OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Well a lot has happened since my last update, and I hope you are all staying SAFE, SANE & POSITIVE whilst this situation continues. We are still beavering away, albeit working from home for everyone's safety. We remain in good health and are using our time constructively so when things get back to normal we are ready to hit the ground at pace.
We remain open for business on the website and customers should see very little difference when placing orders. We have managed to retain our good turnaround times and at this point there seems very few issues with delayed deliveries, however some countries ore holding parcels at customs for up to 72 hours before releasing to the courier, but once released delivery is pretty much as it has been.
We had thought we would struggle to get orders out but we have a really good system in place meaning that has not been the case and our items remain available, and are ready within a few days. the only delays currently is on fabric delivery but we have enough to be going on with and we have plenty of POLY Satin, Silky, Ripstop, Nylon Satin, Pertex & Lace but some colours in the Gloss PU and the PVC are low, these are however on order and we are awaiting delivery.
I am checking Orders and mails Daily, so please feel free to drop me an email if you need to - as always we are here and "Happy to Help"
We remain open for business on the website and customers should see very little difference when placing orders. We have managed to retain our good turnaround times and at this point there seems very few issues with delayed deliveries, however some countries ore holding parcels at customs for up to 72 hours before releasing to the courier, but once released delivery is pretty much as it has been.
We had thought we would struggle to get orders out but we have a really good system in place meaning that has not been the case and our items remain available, and are ready within a few days. the only delays currently is on fabric delivery but we have enough to be going on with and we have plenty of POLY Satin, Silky, Ripstop, Nylon Satin, Pertex & Lace but some colours in the Gloss PU and the PVC are low, these are however on order and we are awaiting delivery.
I am checking Orders and mails Daily, so please feel free to drop me an email if you need to - as always we are here and "Happy to Help"
UPDATE 17/03/20 - COVID19
YOU, US & COVID19
A Statement from Dapa Designs Ltd
Here at Dapa Designs Ltd, we’ve been thinking a lot about our customers, our Team and the community in general. Your comfort, health and safety are key to our actions. We believe it’s critical to do our part to help reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Here are some of the steps that we are taking to protect everyone in this evolving situation.
- We are working hard to ensure to make that our complete product range remains available for when you want them, delivered in the safest and fastest way possible post-production.
- We are following guidance and best practices from the CDC and will update accordingly
- We have increased our daily cleaning routines within the studio, including hourly hand washing by the team. Within the production area all machinery and surfaces are sanitized at regular intervals throughout the day the cutting table is sanitized prior to each cut and the fabric is mist sanitized as we use it. The use of sanitizer and sanitizing is in place within the packing area and every parcel is sanitised before being handed to the postal service. We are quarantining any incoming deliveries for 24 hours in a warm area above 24% and sanitizing packets prior to opening.
- We are, as always available to answer any questions about your experience, work with you on the best delivery option and provide more information on the many precautions we’re taking to protect your health and safety.
- We are equally committed to taking care of our small team and their health so are monitoring this shift by shift
- We're asking our team to refrain from any unnecessary travel and to avoid public gatherings, shared travel etc, where possible
While the current situation is constantly changing and is obviously very worrying, we take some comfort in the knowledge that we have a fantastic team who will continue to work hard to get your items out to you and a wonderful and loyal community of customers who we value very much. We stand ready to serve your needs and aim for our website and social channels to be a source of support, inspiration and enjoyment for you.
Like all small businesses this situation is could force permanent closure, due to inability to meet bills wages etc and we are no different, we do not have reserves like big companies do to ride the wave, so please continue to support us during this time, its our every day little sales that will help with our survival and ensure we are around this summer to fulfil your longer term needs.
Currently there is no plans in place to stop the free movement of goods and services, so we aim to stay positive and do what we do best, which is serving you with great gear.
Thank you for being a part of the Dapa Designs family.
With Love, Faith and a Fighting Spirit,
Dave & Patrick Thompson-Bennett
Dapa Designs Ltd.
PLEASE SEE UPDATES ABOVE FOR THE MOST CURRENT POSITION
UPDATE 03/01/20 - HAPPY NEW YEAR
So 2019 has been dealt with and we not only embark on a New Year but a New Decade, which is going to be full of change. Change is a good thing, We all need to change, grow and develop, so whilst we don't quite know what Brexit will look like, we do know that some things will change, there may be changes in postage and delivery, Customs control etc but we will tackle these as and when they arrive but whilst this changes you can be guaranteed of one thing which will never change and that is our desire to offer a great product at the best value we can, giving you the best choice possible.
For us 2020 is an exciting year as we aim to continue our product development to offer more styles in larger ranges of fabrics with lots of options, we have already come some way with that but there is more we want to do, for us this means expansion of the business and growth of our market. we have many little projects in hand for this year and indeed the next 5 to 10 years which we will update you on as and when the time is right. However for the moment we are focusing on expansion to give us the room to grow and with this in mind we are looking to avail our-self of another business unit, this will give us more room for production and packing but most excitingly for me is the expansion of the SHOWROOM/SHOP, we are aiming to expand the size of the showroom to allow for visitors regularly, where you can come and try before you buy, some of the underwear and more basic ranges will be held in stock so you can buy when visiting or indeed order if it is not a stock line, we will have Refreshments and lounging facilities for our customers and will be on hand to discuss possibilities, we will also start hosting one of shorts events (quite in what format they will be is still to be decided) but they will create an opportunity for like minded people to meet and chat about all things shorts, retro and nylon related and will be held out of hours as they will not be everyone's thing. this is the first step of a bigger better Dapa Designs, Equipped for the future and your future needs, with your support we will continue to grow, develop and change at the same time remaining as loyal to you as you are to us,
So here's to 2020 and lets make it a great year
Wishing you and yours the best year ever and may it be filled with Good Health, Love, Special Moments and of course SHORTS
Dave xx
For us 2020 is an exciting year as we aim to continue our product development to offer more styles in larger ranges of fabrics with lots of options, we have already come some way with that but there is more we want to do, for us this means expansion of the business and growth of our market. we have many little projects in hand for this year and indeed the next 5 to 10 years which we will update you on as and when the time is right. However for the moment we are focusing on expansion to give us the room to grow and with this in mind we are looking to avail our-self of another business unit, this will give us more room for production and packing but most excitingly for me is the expansion of the SHOWROOM/SHOP, we are aiming to expand the size of the showroom to allow for visitors regularly, where you can come and try before you buy, some of the underwear and more basic ranges will be held in stock so you can buy when visiting or indeed order if it is not a stock line, we will have Refreshments and lounging facilities for our customers and will be on hand to discuss possibilities, we will also start hosting one of shorts events (quite in what format they will be is still to be decided) but they will create an opportunity for like minded people to meet and chat about all things shorts, retro and nylon related and will be held out of hours as they will not be everyone's thing. this is the first step of a bigger better Dapa Designs, Equipped for the future and your future needs, with your support we will continue to grow, develop and change at the same time remaining as loyal to you as you are to us,
So here's to 2020 and lets make it a great year
Wishing you and yours the best year ever and may it be filled with Good Health, Love, Special Moments and of course SHORTS
Dave xx
UPDATE 24/12/19 - Wishing you all the most magnificent festive period
09/12/19 - Welcome
We would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the NEW Dapa Designs website - this is the place to be if you like your sportswear & underwear to be a little bit different to what everyone else is wearing. We are confident that you will find something of interest among our customisable range. If you are new to our product, be assured you are in safe hands, we have been making our range of garments for 9 years and have a great following of regulars, so shop with confidence (see some recent feedback comments below). If you are one of those returning customers then we bid you hello and Thank You for your loyalty we hope you like what we have done on the new site.
Our aim moving forward is to offer our already great range with lots of customisable options to give you more choice over the garment you buy. We will remain competitive on price, innovative on style and continue to deliver outstanding quality.
At the time of launch we are introducing 2 new fabrics PU Nylon & Pertex and have extended colours in Ripstop. These will all be available with over 22 different colour trims in a variation of styles and that just for starters. We have also launched Boxing Shorts and extended our trouser range in Nylon Satin, PVC and PU Nylon. All available colours with your choice of accents, so there are many more options.
We continue to take payment by PayPal, however have great pleasure in announcing that we will are now able to take payment by Credit and Debit cards, via Square. We are unable to accept cheque payments or postal orders moving forward and we can take cash, PayPal and Cards at the studio.
Below are just some of our Recent Comment on our other platform - we are very grateful for all comments supplied.
Our aim moving forward is to offer our already great range with lots of customisable options to give you more choice over the garment you buy. We will remain competitive on price, innovative on style and continue to deliver outstanding quality.
At the time of launch we are introducing 2 new fabrics PU Nylon & Pertex and have extended colours in Ripstop. These will all be available with over 22 different colour trims in a variation of styles and that just for starters. We have also launched Boxing Shorts and extended our trouser range in Nylon Satin, PVC and PU Nylon. All available colours with your choice of accents, so there are many more options.
We continue to take payment by PayPal, however have great pleasure in announcing that we will are now able to take payment by Credit and Debit cards, via Square. We are unable to accept cheque payments or postal orders moving forward and we can take cash, PayPal and Cards at the studio.
Below are just some of our Recent Comment on our other platform - we are very grateful for all comments supplied.
From the 9th December 2019, through to 30th January 2020, you can save yourself 20% on every order over £50 - whats not to love. Just add your items to your basket and then at checkout enter the code "LAUNCH19" and your discount will be applied. This offer cannot be used alongside any other offers or alongside loyalty points. If you have any left over from the previous site (these can be used by prior arrangement from February onward).
The new site does not have a loyalty points scheme however we will continue to recognise loyalty by one of events for returning customers, which will be sent out on an individual basis. However you will need to have created an account and signed in to receive the newsletter & offers.
Moving forward and in time for summer we will Launch Gift codes for you to give to loved ones as presents. This will allow them to buy sportswear, just like your, these will be issued as individual codes and you will be able to purchase amounts in denominations of £20 up to £100.
Once again thank you for for your support, your lovely comments and for liking what we do. As long as you want it we will make it. We want to continue building upon our business and deliver with pride. Below are a few of our recent makes.
The new site does not have a loyalty points scheme however we will continue to recognise loyalty by one of events for returning customers, which will be sent out on an individual basis. However you will need to have created an account and signed in to receive the newsletter & offers.
Moving forward and in time for summer we will Launch Gift codes for you to give to loved ones as presents. This will allow them to buy sportswear, just like your, these will be issued as individual codes and you will be able to purchase amounts in denominations of £20 up to £100.
Once again thank you for for your support, your lovely comments and for liking what we do. As long as you want it we will make it. We want to continue building upon our business and deliver with pride. Below are a few of our recent makes.