How to Operate a Used Children's Clothing Store
Because budget shopping never goes out of style, used clothing stores are very common, particularly in a rough economy. One for children could be even more popular because children grow out of their clothes so quickly. To operate a successful store, you will need lots of clothing, good prices and a neat store.
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Things You'll Need
- Storefront or Internet store
- Merchandise (clothing and shoes)
- Business supplies
Instructions
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Define what your specialty will be. You could sell clothes and shoes for toddlers, teens or for children of all ages. Also, determine your target market as this will help you figure out what items to sell, donations to take and how to price them.
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Decide if you want a physical or online store. This will probably be determined by how much money you have. If you use a storefront, locate it where many parents and children shop, Find out if public transportation is readily available and if there is convenient parking. If your store is online, make sure images are displayed clearly and that customers can purchase items through credit cards, checks or PayPal.
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Get your business license and write a detailed business plan. Register your business name with the Secretary of State's Office and establish a business bank account. Items your business plan should focus on include operating expenses, marketing plan, insurance and expected income for about three to five years.
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Determine how you will get supplies and items for the store. Thrift stores generally sell consigned items, gently-used donations or both. If you plan to obtain items through donation, let donors know the kinds of items you take and those you don't. You can also buy items at yard sales or flea markets to resell.
Acquire store supplies such as shopping carts, clothing hangers, bags for purchases and receipts.
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Set a price for what you're selling. Think about the item's quality, its original price and how popular you think it is. If you know your demographic, it will be easier to come up with an appropriate price. If, for example, your clientele is well-off, you might be able to set a higher price on items than if your customers are not as affluent.
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Obtain employment for your store, if needed. The number of employees necessary will depend on your store's size and hours. When hiring paid employees or supervising volunteers, give them defined work schedules and duties.
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Tips & Warnings
Publicize the days and times you will receive donations and consignments.
If you carry donated merchandise, decide if you're going to pay donors when the items are delivered or when they are sold.
Be sure that you or one of your employees has an eye for fabrics because when looking for items to purchase, you need to be able to determine the quality of the fabric and if tears can be repaired to resell.
