New Store Opening Checklist
We created and initial general list of the items that a store owner will have to consider when opening a retail store. This list is intended to be the start of a very comprehensive listing of the steps that need to be considered, but we need our readers to ADD TO THE LIST via the comments button at the end of the article. We will keep expanding the list as new ideas are submitted.
- get all needed planning tools and templates
- develop business plan
- perform market research to determine sales potential
- develop a financing plan and sources of capital
- secure financing
- set up corporation
- open bank accounts
- select location
- negotiate lease
- get all licenses and permits
- set-up all utilities
- select contractor for internal/external re-fit
- develop construction plan
- develop full checklist with key dates
- buy/lease phone system
- decide sales floor fixtures to utilize
- develop a sales floor design
- select lighting/final colors/HVAC/sales floor props
- determine sales tools needed in the business
- select security system/change locks
- get computer/cash register/POS system/other software
- get cash handling equipment and safe
- do initial merchandise selection and purchase
- develop operating/ HR/customer service policies
- determine benefit plans
- advertise for and hire associates
- train associates
- physically set up store
- order store supplies
- develop any forms/communication policies
- set dress-code policies
- set merchandise prices
- plan openeing sequence
- set up store systems/POS/credit card links
- create sales floor signage
- set-up attorney/HVAC/plumber/electrician/cleaning service arrangements
- determine store hours
- do final punch list review with contractors
- meet neighbors
- insure parking space available
- do soft opening
- do grand opening
For more information on this topic contact Pat Fitzpatrick at Atlanta Retail Consulting Inc
