Are you planning on opening a business? Do you know all the important factors to consider when opening a small business? 

Who is your target audience? Do you require a lot of private parking? Do you want to be near other retail stores/competition? What are the rental rates? 

Location, location, location…you’ve heard it when referring to where you should buy your home, but did you know that store location is one of the most important factors for the success of a brick-and-mortar business? 

Are you looking for the perfect location for your brick and mortar boutique? Keep reading for some tips on finding the best spot for your shop.

Setting Up Shop: 6 Tips for Finding the Perfect Spot for Your Brick and Mortar Boutique

Your retail store location can make or break you especially when you’re just getting started. You want to be visible to your target customer. Let’s look at some tips for finding that sweet spot.

1. Where are Your Potential Customers?

What are you planning to sell at your boutique? Women’s specialty clothing? Gifts? Jewelry? Are you selling items that attract a suburban population? 

Study the demographics of different areas to try to pinpoint your potential customer base.

2. Look for Complementary Businesses

Depending on what you’re selling at your boutique, you may or may not want to be near similar businesses. Stay away from competing businesses but near complementary ones. 

For example, if you are opening a boutique with gifts and women’s clothing, it’s helpful to be in an area with similar shops because people tend to shop around more than one of that type of store.

3. Easy Accessibility

Keep your eye out for a place that is easy to see from the street and has plenty of parking in front. People will pass right by if they can’t find your storefront.

4. Zoning Restrictions

What are the rules about hours of operation? What are the restrictions regarding signage? Find out the local zoning laws that may affect your boutique and how it operates.

5. Rent Costs: What’s Included?

Does the rent include utilities, security, maintenance of the grounds and parking lot? Are taxes and trash pickup included? Get the answers to all these questions before signing a lease.

6. Building Specifics

Are there restrooms for employee use? Is there internet service already available or do you have to set it up? Does the HVAC work well or do you have to worry about it going out? Are there any plumbing problems? Is there a janitorial staff?

Do Your Research

Don’t rush the process. Take your time and research different areas until you find that perfect spot for your brick and mortar boutique. 

Do you know who can help you on your journey to becoming a small business owner? We at Capital Collaboration are here to help you achieve your dreams. We have a vast network of lenders to help you secure a small business loan.