In this part of the Q1 sourcing series, we are going to focus specifically on what types of products to prioritise during Q1. The approach in Q1 is very different to Q4. During Q4, the focus is heavily weighted toward toys and gifting. In Q1, that focus needs to shift.
January is not about hype or urgency like Q4. It is about aligning with seasonal demand patterns and returning to consistent, proven sourcing strategies.
Why We Shift Focus in Q1
Consumer behaviour changes significantly after Christmas. The gifting season ends, people are skint after Christmas and buying decisions become more practical. This is why we move away from heavy toy sourcing and into product categories that naturally perform better in January.
Q1 does not have the same rush as Q4, but it does have predictable demand. The opportunity lies in identifying where that demand moves and positioning stock accordingly.
“New Year, New Me” Products
One of the biggest shifts in January is towards health and self improvement. This happens every single year.
Products that perform well include:
- Vitamins and supplements
- Health and wellness products
- Gym accessories
- Fitness equipment
These categories typically see a small spike in January. It is not a massive spike like Q4, but it is consistent and reliable. These products often sell steadily throughout the year as well, which makes them ideal for Q1 sourcing.
Returning to Core Year Round Products
January is not a special retail season in the same way Q4 is. Because of that, a large part of Q1 sourcing is simply returning to what you were sourcing before Q4.
If you had products that sold consistently throughout the year prior to Q4, now is the time to focus back on those. These products are not exciting, but they provide consistency, which is exactly what you want in Q1.
Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day
While not as intense as Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day are still relevant.
You do not need to go deep, but it is worth keeping an eye on:
- Beauty sets
- Skincare bundles
- Gift sets
- Luxury items
If you still have suitable Q4 stock that fits these occasions, it can carry through naturally. You can also pick up additional discounted stock after Xmas if hey can be a good deal.
Price Drops and Amazon to Amazon Opportunities
Price drops remain strong throughout Q1. Amazon to Amazon price drops and retail price drops should always be part of your sourcing strategy.
These opportunities:
- Will be random product
- Often have good SPM’s and ROI’s
- Sell consistently throughout the year
- Come straight to your phone
If a product makes sense on the data, Q1 is no different to any other time of year.
Sourcing Strategies in Q1
In Q4, sourcing is heavily focused on sales and promotions. In Q1, the approach shifts back to structured sourcing sessions.
I will be using:
- Newsletter Sourcing
- Price drop sourcing
- Keepa Product Finder sourcing
- Manual sourcing sessions
This is a return to disciplined, repeatable sourcing rather than chasing seasonal spikes. These methods are all covered in detail inside Mogul Mentoring. If you want to explore that, you can book a discovery call to see if it is a good fit.
What About Toys?
Toys do not disappear in Q1. If a toy sells consistently throughout the year, it is still worth selling. The key difference is being selective.
In Q1:
- Avoid seasonal toys
- Check year round sales data
- Keep quantities sensible
Toys that sell well all year remain valid products.
Final Thoughts
Q1 can feel like a buzz kill after the intensity of Q4, but the opportunities are still there. The key is shifting focus rather than slowing down.
Use December as your capital injection. Move back to structured sourcing. Focus on health and fitness, consumables, office products, and proven year round sellers. Stay disciplined and consistent.
Q1 is where strong businesses stabilize and prepare for the rest of the year. If you approach it properly, it can be a very productive period rather than a quiet one.
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