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I have never worked in the field but have close friends that own small businesses including a few game shop owners.
1. Usually you just need to get the local licences and tax forms; find a location.
Finding a hobby distributor is easy.. just google it.. but I know Diamond comics is the big dog for comic distribution.
You have to consider buying tables, chairs and displays for your products.. This also would have to include a cash register
and other office supplies. Also your location you pick may not be up to your needs and may need to have some type of remodel
cost. Picking a place located in a high traffic mall or by schools is a good idea, you cant sale product if you can't get people in the door
2. Competition - What sets you apart from the other shops?? One shop I always go has crazy size stock.. but the owner done it for 40 years
and unless you win the lottery, not a good idea to start out.
3. All this costs money.. Most hobby stores that are done wrong are just a big money pit..
I would suggest.. start small . Contact a hobby distributor and ask what the minimum requirements is ... Tax licence and minimum size of order is usual requirement..
Most you have to sign a contract that you will need to buy a certain amount of money each month to keep in good standings.
Once you have those try to find a Convention and try selling product over the weekend.. If you like it .. keep doing that to help build up money.
During the week put stock on eBay so you can keep the ball rolling.. just remember what stock is online so you don't sale it at the convention..
that will quickly upset customers... having sold something online that you already sold at a convention is not good.
Other things to consider...
Parents will use you as a free baby sitter and drop off little johnny at your store.. Hope you like kids
Remember there is always "that one guy" at every store.. and you will be the one to deal with him
or hear his story a hundred times about why walked dead is not real.
A book you can read is from the owner of Fantasy Shop stores in St Louis ..
A Specialty Retailer's Handbook: Games and Comics by Dave & Kelli Wallace
Not read it ..and heard mixed reviews..
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