Talk about frustration! Who wants shoppers in their store who routinely break open packages, thrown candy bar and gum wrappers on the floor, and are often loud? Logic says these are the shoppers you don’t want in your store. Yet there is one group that fits this description to a ‘T’ and you do want in your store. That group is children; when accompanied by an adult. When starting a dollar store build sales by creating an environment that welcomes children with open arms. Make your store a fun place for them to come and find that perfect toy, craft or treat. Carry the merchandise that motivates them to ask Mom and Dad for return trips year around.
Carry the right merchandise. When starting a dollar store don’t just display a few toys and assume you have met the need. To really meet the needs of your younger shoppers and their parents will require more. Carry a good selection of toys for all ages. Add puzzles and games to the mix. Don’t forget about craft items as well.
Be sure to have the accessories required when some merchandise items are being purchased. For example, don’t just carry poster board. Add complementary items such as markers or craft sets they can add to their purchase as well. Carry and prominently display color books. Place a variety of color crayons right next to them so kids can walk away with everything they need for their chosen activity. The children are happy, their parents are happy and your sales grow quickly with all the add-on sales.
Watch your sale levels grow as you add new merchandise for the young shopper with every changing season and major holiday. For example add color books and accessories, craft items and other indoor activities during fall and winter. Don’t forget the stocking stuffers for Christmas.
Hold activities and events focused on children. When starting a dollar store build a children’s event into your grand opening. Then make it your habit to periodically hold additional events for the kids. Coloring contests are easy to manage and the kids love them. Periodically provide treats as shoppers finalize their purchases; with parent approval of course. Whenever you hold a major event in your store include a drawing focused on children. Simple, inexpensive prizes can be awarded to the lucky winners.
To your success when starting a dollar store!
Learn how you can Start your own Dollar Store Business.
Bob Hamilton is an entrepreneur, author, writer, business consultant and trainer
