I'm thinking of opening a cellphone retail store... any tips on how to start?

Question

I'm already looking for a good location...
I need some tips on how to start a retail store.
It's not going to be a franchise.
I need help on finding a good supplier of cellphones.
Open to all tips, suggestions, or anything to help me open my store...

Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

The best routes to take are to research the process of starting a business as well as the industry you're interested in.

I recommend checking out the SBA, Entrepreneur, The Start Up Journal & Nolo. All 4 are great informational resources for the new/small business owner. I posted links for you in the source box.

Associations may be a good avenue to explore. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.

Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can about the industry. Here are some book titles that are relevant:

* Start and Run a Profitable Retail Business by Jim Dion, Ted Topping
* Retail Business Kit for Dummies by Rick Segel
* Specialty Shop Retailing: How to Run Your Own Store Revised by Carol L. Schroeder
* So You Want To Own The Store: Secrets to Running a Successful Retail Operation by Mort Brown

There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles.

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Answer 2

Good luck. It is a tough buisness to get into. My friend has started his own buisness doing just that. Its been a struggle so far. The one tip I can give you from what I have seen is you better have some connections to get contracts with carriers or companies that work with carriers. Also, you need a nice amount of money to be able have phones in stock.

Answer 3

I had a store, but not anymore, it just wasn't worth it, what ever carriers you represent, they will tell you where to get phones. Ebay is a good place for accessories