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View Full Version : Market Analysis Help - Home+Garden Specialty Retail


WhittierCottage
05-04-2008, 08:44 PM
Hello~
I'm in the early stages of planning and researching a brick and mortar home and garden specialty retail shop concept in Atlanta, Georgia. I've had such a difficult time finding industry standard benchmarks for things like average sales per square foot and average gross annual sales - both of which are critical to financial forecasting. It's understandably awkward to approach local competition for that type of information. So, I thought I'd post here in hopes of finding a business owner located in another part of the country or state who, based on their personal experience, would be open to sharing that type of information with me.

My business name is Joyeux Home + Garden [ www.joyeuxhomeandgarden.com ]. We will be carrying unique one-of-a-kind, European and American, flea market finds and new vintage-style items. Our product assortment will include casual accessories, home furnishings and an array of gifts and decorative items, including area rugs, lighting, table top items and bedding. If you have a similar business, I'd love to network.

I'm always open for networking with women entrepreneurs, so I'd welcome any words of wisdom from anyone willing to share. I look forward to hearing your feedback. If you'd prefer to contact me directly, I can be reached at joyeuxhome@gmail.com.

Thanks so much,
Rachel

greenoak
05-06-2008, 07:15 PM
when you go to the trade shows be sure and get the free trade magazines,.....they have benchmark ideas...... its pretty hard to say what the average is....it would so depend on your inventory...and then if anyone wanted what you chose..... ..
in general i would say the average turnover is about 4 times a year....if that helps.....
a bit of rehabbed, restored and the flea market stuff is great and sets you apart from lowes or other more department type stores.....
our store is kind of what you describe.... we are aiming at midrange prices..not high exclusive.... we try and be real good style at reasonable prices...!!..we sell a lot tho...if you need display ppieces like cash wrap, big shelving , counters ....big fantasy cupboards...keep us in mind...
ann
www.greenoakantiques.com
www.magpiecottage.blogspot.com

WhittierCottage
05-07-2008, 10:39 AM
Greenoak, thanks for your reply and suggestions. I just added myself to your mailing list. I'll keep you in mind for fixtures when that day comes. Your business is brimming with wonderful things.

Thanks again.

afterall.designs
05-18-2008, 09:22 PM
Congrats on your business venture!
I was just reading a book of vignettes about women business owners and your plans sound like one or two of the specialty shops featured. The book is in my car (to read while waiting for appointments) but I'll try to remember to send you the title or the business names.

Take a look at my handcrafted fabric accessories at http://afterall.etsy.com.
My work is one of a kind or one of a few, but I'd consider wholesaling to the right venue.

Best of luck.
Susan

greenoak
05-24-2008, 08:43 AM
racheal, lots of my stuff goes to atlanta, to a big monthly flea market there...via a good customer who does shows, ..do you go to it? a lot of my frenchy and big gaudy stuff goes down that way....
it must be a wonderful market for you, a place to get the good stuff!!!!
maybe youve bought something that passed thru our store on its journey to atlanta!!!
ann
www.magpiecottage.blogspot.com
www.greenoakantiques.com

WhittierCottage
05-31-2008, 10:57 AM
Hello,
Yes, the largest antique market here is Scott's Antique Market. I go quite often. There used to be another called Lakewood, but sadly, it closed down a couple years ago.

Thanks for the replies :-)

Country French Antiques
06-17-2008, 06:25 PM
Bonjour Rachel,

First off, I love your business name!! Right down my alley.
Your format sounds like a nice concept with European items and I think you are smart to have a niche, especially now.
Second, I wanted to introduce myself to you.
I own European Antique Market in Louisville and have been importing from France for over 10 years. My specialty is supplying the trade.
Whether you feel like one item or a container, we can work with you.
If you get a chance, stop by my blog
Country French Antiques (http://euroantiquemarket.blogspot.com) or visit the website
European Antique Market (http://www.euroantiquemarket.com) you can get an idea of the type of product I carry.
If you have any questions feel free to send me an email or give me a call
and Best of Luck in your new venture!!!

Shawn Stucker
European Antique Market
933 Barret Ave.
Louisville, Ky 40204
502.585.3111