Tips for Successfully Expanding Your Online Business to Brick and Mortar

Owning your own business can be exciting and rewarding. If you currently have an online shop, you may be ready to take the next step and establish a physical store. Here are some things you should do to get started.

Make a business plan.

One of the most important things you can do to ensure a successful transfer from the internet to a physical store is creating a business plan. In your business plan, you’ll list all your plans for creating your store, including a timeline and projected finances. Be thorough in your approach, and keep in mind everything from decorations to materials to build your actual store. You should also decide what you want your store to look like, and how it will operate.

You should also consider things like energy costs and other bills. To protect your store in case of a power outage, consider browsing on wellandpower.net to see all their generators. Welland Power is an industry leader in the generator market, and they can provide the best possible support in the event of an emergency.

Find a location.

Once you’ve detailed your business plan, you need to choose a store location. When you find decent areas to consider, do market research to see what types of businesses are in the area. You don’t want to be too close to any direct competition. You should also look up things like rent and any licenses you may need in each area.

Stock up on supplies.

To have a successful store, you’ll need plenty of inventory for all your potential customers. If you already have a successful online shop, you may have a supplier in mind that you can use for your physical location as well. If you want to expand your product line at your new storefront, look around for similar items that will attract more business to your store.

For example, if you sell health foods and vitamins, consider adding Makers Nutrition to your selection. The Makers Nutrition team has a supplement manufacturing company that makes vitamins in tablet and powder forms. Jason Provenzano is the president of Makers Nutrition, and he is an established entrepreneur recognized by the American Business Awards. The company is on Inc. Magazine’s list of best workplaces. The high standards of Makers Nutrition will elevate your already successful wellness business.

Hire employees.

You may already have an established team for your online business. If you don’t, or you need more help, you’ll need to hire employees for your store. You will need a knowledgeable staff who can give you the best possible support. You may also need managers, warehouse workers, and bookkeepers, depending on your business needs. Pay attention to applicants with several years of experience, including customer service positions. Also, consider asking for any additional information like if they’ve been fired or their future career goals. Your employees will be the face of your brand, so make wise choices.

Market your new store.

Finally, you need to market your new store. Since you may already have a loyal clientele online, let all your customers know about your new store they can visit in person. You can do this through a newsletter or advertising on your website. Include any additional information about your grand opening.

You can also use social media to market your new store. The purpose of a page is to draw new clients to your business. Use any graphic design skills you have to create attention-grabbing graphics, and post them to your social media accounts. If you don’t have graphic design knowledge, hire someone to make content for you. Professional marketing can go a long way.

Going from an online shop to a physical storefront takes a lot of work, but it can make your business even more successful. While online shopping has its benefits, there’s nothing like going to a physical location and seeing the products you love with your own eyes. With a lot of planning and hard work, your customers can soon enjoy seeing their favorite products in person, too.