How to Open a Candy Store

If you've got a sweet tooth, love to bake and have a head for business, you might be inclined to open a candy store. Many people love homemade chocolates and personally designed treats for holidays and special occasions. So open a candy store and ready yourself for some sweet success.

Instructions

1. Create a business plan and a budget before you open a candy store. Figure in an accountant, staffing, rent, cost of supplies and other start-up costs when completing a budget.

2. Gain experience in the candy business by working in a candy store. Become manager of a franchise such as Candy Express, or work at a small bakery or chocolate shop. Learn about the business hands-on.

3. Build relationships with distributors and reps while you're gaining experience. Make contacts that you can use when it comes time to open your own candy store.

4. Attend candy expos. Many cities such as Las Vegas, Philadelphia and Chicago host annual candy expos where you can talk to vendors and suppliers for everything from chocolate to climate-controlled display cases.

5. Keep costs down as much as possible. Get friends or family to help out behind the counter rather than paying for a staff, and buy chocolate wholesale in bulk.

6. Find a convenient and affordable location in which to open your candy store. A small shop in a place that offers lots of drive-by and foot traffic will be most appealing for a candy store.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider a home equity or personal loan for financing if you aren't able to secure a small business loan when it comes time to open your candy store.

• Don't expect to pay yourself when you open a candy store. It can take a few years to get established and build a reputation before you're able to make a profit.