It’s exciting looking for a space to open a retail business. Whether you are moving from a different location or starting from scratch, choosing your location is as important as any decision in the process of getting your business up and running. The area and location in which you place your business can really make or break how you do. Any great business is going to only be as successful as its positioning. For this reason, it’s important to keep in mind some must-haves when it comes to retail space.
Retail Space Must-haves
If you want to open a great retail business, you’re going to need a great space. Retail space requires a few must-haves that will help lead to success.
Windows and Natural Light
If you’ve ever been to a large department store, you know that the most enjoyable areas to shop are the ones nearest the exits. The natural light helps to ensure the room isn’t too harsh or artificial. Those fluorescent lights can really sting the eyes when not paired with windows or natural light. For that reason, make sure your retail space has plenty of windows. This will keep shoppers in your store for a longer period of time and help to make it enjoyable to spend time in your shop.
Easy Access
Easy access is crucial to a great retail space. Consider the parking available for your customers. It shouldn’t feel like a chore to get into your business, and it should also be accessible for all, including wheelchairs and walkers. It is important to make sure everyone can shop at your store.
Ample Space
Shopping can be unappealing when done in a crowded space. In terms of retail space, make sure you have enough room for customers to walk around comfortably as well as for you to store inventory out of sight. If you sell furniture, for example, you won’t make do with a boutique-sized retail space. There are a lot of things to consider, but one of the most important aspects of a retail space is the size of the location. Be practical, not taking more space than you need, but when the price and location are right, you might just make do with a space a bit bigger than you need because doing so will make your store much more shoppable.
Curious about finding your retail space? Call Cummings to find the perfect location for you and your business.