Opening a brick-and-mortar store is an important and exciting step in business. You have done all the hard work, and your dream is beginning to become a reality.
Whether you are opening a brand new business or bringing your online store to life, there are some important factors you must consider to ensure the smooth running of your operation.
This article outlines some insights that aim to help you embark on this new journey.
#1 Location
The location of your brick-and-mortar store is one of the most important, and practical things that you need to consider. This includes the physical location as well as accessibility. Is it in a place that is easy to get to, and that will easily drive a lot of foot traffic? If you opt for somewhere more remote, then you will have to consider the travel and marketing to drive people there, whereas if you opt for a location that is on a busy high street, you will naturally be able to attract new clients. You will also need to consider accessibility of the building. Are customers able to park on site, or nearby? Will customers be able to enter and exit the building safely and with ease? Are customers or suppliers going to need space to load and unload large items? There are a lot of different things to think about when finding a location, sometimes it looks good on the outside, but you need to ensure it is also practical.
#2 Maintenance and running costs
A building may look good on the outside, but you shouldn’t be too hasty and jump in without getting extra checks on the building. As they say, you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. If you can, get a specialist or an extra survey completed on the location you are considering for your store. This will give you more information on the property, and ensure there are not going to be any hidden or unexpected problems and costs that come with it.
It is important to learn more about the costs for the general maintenance and running of the building for your business too, so you can budget accordingly, for example, for an electrician or a 24 hour AC service. Research local traders, and if possible, speak with the agents and previous owners who will be able to provide realistic costs.
#3 Customer journey
You will need to do your homework on your customers and the journey they will take to get to you, to be able to drive traffic when you open. Even if you have an online store and are extending your business to a brick-and-mortar store, you will need to reconsider your marketing efforts. How will customers know you are there? What incentives can you offer to drive customers to your new store? Where are your customers on their journey, and how can you provide a solution for them? How can you make your store more attractive to drive customers who are walking by?
There are many things to consider when it comes to opening your brick-and-mortar store. Although it can seem daunting at first, with the right strategies built into the foundations, you can open your store with confidence.
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