How to Start a Fleamarket Business

Selling products at flea markets can be profitable. Thousands of flea markets across the United States sell a large variety of products ranging from fine jewelry to antique furniture. Flea market vendors have several advantages. The capital investment required is small. Rent and utilities in a flea market are lower than traditional retail locations. Flea market vendors enjoy the benefit of advertising that is initiated by the landlord. Several flea market vendors are located in one area, unlike some small retail store owners who often work in solitude.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Telephone book Newspaper Computer Internet service

1. Visit flea markets. Look in the phone book and newspaper to find local markets. Visit keysfleamarket.com to locate flea markets online. Make sure your products suit the clientele. If the flea market caters to antiques, do not attempt to sell new clothing.

2. Determine competitors. Fill a need. Do not sell in a location that is saturated with products similar to yours. If you sell costume jewelry, do not locate in a flea market that has five costume jewelry vendors.

3. Interview current vendors at each flea market. Ask about the landlord. Inquire about customer traffic. Ask if vendors are pleased with the flea market. Ask if the vendors have been successful.

4. Look at market appearance and maintenance. View restrooms and available parking space. Observe landscaping upkeep. Determine how your merchandise will be secured when the flea market is closed.

5. Ask the landlord about advertising. Look at all advertising material distributed by the landlord. Ask if individual vendor advertising is allowed.

6. Inquire about costs. Determine the amount of space provided to vendors and the price. Find out lease terms and whether rental fees are levied daily, weekly or monthly. Ask about the need to purchase liability insurance.

Tips & Warnings

• To reduce flea market costs, consider sharing a booth with another vendor.
• Do not purchase wholesale items from other vendors located at the flea market. Such items probably are not in demand.

References

• 201 Great Ideas for Your Small Business; Jane Applegate; 2002

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