Country stores offer many locally made products.
Starting a country store may spark images of the simple life. Despite the romance of this iconic folk tradition, starting a country store requires a great deal of research, planning and hard work to be successful. The location and authenticity of your store will be important. Locate your store in the center of a small town or quaint shopping district of a larger municipality. The hallmark of a country store is local goods, crafts and produce. Serve the needs of the community by supporting its local industries.
Instructions
1. Research the market in your area for a country store. Consider the demographics in conducting this research. Your local Chamber of Commerce will have useful information about starting a business in the area. Select a location within your community that is central to the town or located in a quaint shopping district. A historical building would be ideal. Research your competition. This will include large chain stores as well as small boutiques. Research sources for products for your store. Artisans, craftspeople, farms and other local industries should be your focus for products.
2. Write a detailed business plan based upon your careful research. The business plan should cover your start-up through the first year. Develop a mission statement to express your goals for your business. The mission might include supporting local businesses and preserving the tradition of country stores. Write a description of your business. Include all of the aspects of the business in your description. Provide analysis of the market and competition, a marketing strategy, and financial projections. Attach any legal documents that are necessary to form your business.
3. Fill out and file any legal documents necessary to form your business. Business and tax registration documents will be necessary as well as local permits or licenses. Check with your local authorities to determine the regulations for opening your country store. Obtain any necessary permits for operation.
4. Meet with an insurance agent to discuss your options for insurance. Since you will be serving the public in your country store, you will need an insurance package that provides liability and property insurance. Injuries on premise as well as theft or damage to your goods will be areas of concern.
5. Purchase or lease a store based on your research and budget projections. Try to find an historic building or one with character. Arrange your country store in a way that will allow visitors to enjoy an experience in your store while browsing through local handmade goods and specialty foods. Rustic bins, barrels, and hand-crafted furniture should mix with your products.
6. Stock your store with handcrafted items and foods. Offer a wide variety of household items, clothing, tools and specialty foods. Include a local produce section, locally baked breads, home-canned jams, jellies, vegetables and fruits. Handcrafted toys, antiques and other novelties are also ideal to have in your country store.
7. Advertise your store opening with local newspapers. Join the local Chamber of Commerce to network and take advantage of their collective resources.
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