How to Start an Old-Fashioned Candy & Gift Shop

Talk to any grandparent, and they’ll reminisce about the penny-candy and soda fountains in the old-fashioned candy and gift shops they enjoyed in their youth. These types of shops never go out of style, and are fantastic draws for adults and children alike. Here's how to start one of your own.

Instructions

1. Do some research on the types of candy and foods available in the original shops of the thirties, forties and fifties. You can expect to find items like peppermint sticks, licorice and Mary Jane’s on the list. Find out how many of those candies and items are still obtainable and decide which you’d like to offer. Other items you may wish to consider would be a soda fountain and fudge.

2. Decide what type of gifts you’d like to offer. Things like boxes of candy, picture frames, gift baskets and specialty foods can be very popular and profitable. The gifts should be compatible with the candy. Both aspects of your store should complement each other.

3. Secure financing. Be prepared to take out a small business loan for enough money to pay payroll and other expenses for the first 3 years the business is open.

4. Determine the best location for your shop. Areas with tourist traffic are best. Figure out what square footage you need and think about whether or not you want to offer a bar or tables for your clientele. If you decide to lease space in a plaza, you can take advantage of foot traffic attracted to the plaza by other stores. If you choose a stand-alone location, you may have more flexibility in outside décor (you will need to check with codes on what is allowed). Whichever type you choose, make sure the area is zoned for commercial use and get the proper permits.

5. Find suppliers, order supplies and determine pricing. Do not order too many of each item until you know how well it will sell. Choose suppliers who allow you to competitively price your products while still making a profit.

6. Develop a marketing plan and implement it. Your marketing plan should include more than one type of marketing effort. Direct mail, television ads, radio spots and coupons in local publications will assist you in advertising your new shop.