8 replies to this topic

[David]

Considering the enormous ammount of time I have spend in front of a computer this year talking about fireworks, and the time and money spent buying them, I just had a thought that it might even be an idea to start my own shop, as a seasonal. Probably won't happen, but hey... its an idea.

[knocker]

Considering the enormous ammount of time I have spend in front of a computer this year talking about fireworks, and the time and money spent buying them, I just had a thought that it might even be an idea to start my own shop, as a seasonal. Probably won't happen, but hey... its an idea.

Well why not!

Seasonal shops are something that seem to have been rather lacking in the Huddersfield area this year, I've only seen one so far, also noticed that many of the usual shops that normally sell fireworks don't seem to have bothered at all.

[Arthur Brown]

There are at least two members on here who have all year sales places, who would assist you, even supply you on various terms.

You have to do the difficult bit though: secure premises and sell to the public!

[David]

Seasonal shops are something that seem to have been rather lacking in the Huddersfield area this year, I've only seen one so far, also noticed that many of the usual shops that normally sell fireworks don't seem to have bothered at all.

Well, there is a reason for that- there is a some VERY strong competition in that region! I'd look to be opening in an area where there are few fireworks shops- the North East might be an idea.

There are at least two members on here who have all year sales places, who would assist you, even supply you on various terms.

Yeah- I'd be looking to stock a variety of brands. At this stage, of course, it is just an basic idea.

As for storage, I do have a proper location which I could use for that.

To be honest, what is most likley to put me off is scurity concerns- vandals, dodgy customers etc.

Edited by David, 03 November 2008 - 03:25 PM.

[Arthur Brown]

For a seasonal shop there is usually little in the premises to be worth stealing. The licence may not allow more than 50 or 75 kilos NEQ on site so you have to have a stock container somewhere. The shop being replenished daily or more frequently.

[crystal palace fireworks]

David,

To open a seasonal shop needs careful planning,..............you need to consider some of the following points ;

1, Can I buy stock on a sale or return basis? (if not, do I need to tye up money in stock)

2, Is the insurance/transportation/storage/license costs going to be worth the effort for the limited sales selling period?

3, Ask yourself what type of retail outlet is best for my set-up? is it best to be in town centre outlet or a rural outlet?

4, Can I compete on range & price with supermarkets?

5, Do you have the time to research your area for competition?

6, If I am only going to sell fireworks; can I get a premises on short term lease? and is it going to be suitable for my needs?

7, Can I get reliable staff in time?

8, Can I advertise effectivly enough for the short period I am trading? and how much is this going to cost?

9, Should I consider selling other seasonal items (other than fireworks) in all year round shop to make it viable? or should I open a dedicated all year round firework retail shop?

[David]

4, Can I compete on range & price with supermarkets?

All other points to be address/considered too- but the short answer to this one is- YES!

That would be a key area- selling lots of good fireworks, at a straight price (no Buy one get one free) at a price lower than the supermarkets.

As I say, at this stage it is just a very early idea. I do have some broader ideas.

[Spyrotechnics]

selling lots of good fireworks, at a straight price (no Buy one get one free) at a price lower than the supermarkets.

would be interested in seeing your business model to achieve that

[Westie]

would be interested in seeing your business model to achieve that

I agree with this point. The supermarkets buy volumes of stock most businesses can only dream of. They therefore attract significant discounts and it's also on sale or return which are terms you will not achieve. You need to research your Market carefully. What are your target Market and what do they want.