How to Start a Gourmet Foods Store
Gourmet food is increasingly popular as people turn away from mass-produced food, lacking in flavor and nutrition. The research company, Packaged Facts, reports that sales of gourmet foods in 2007 in the U.S. reached $59 billion from $39 billion in 1998, $20 billion of which was revenue from gourmet and health stores. A gourmet cooking store offers an attractive alternative to supermarkets. A typical store will contain high-quality artisan breads, cheese, hams, coffee, spices, olive oils and pasta.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Decide whether you want to be an independent owner or part of a franchise. Gourmet food franchises usually specialize in one type of food. Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwich Shops and Pizzeria Venti are two examples, and both companies give financial assistance and training. Weigh the benefits of having support from a franchise against the freedom of being your own boss.
-
2
Choose a location based on the demographics of the area (age, income, and ethnic breakdown of the population), and whether there is a similar store or plans for one in the future. Various sources can supply information on the above, such as the chamber of commerce, the Census Bureau, the library or a real estate agent. For a report on who is likely to buy gourmet food, purchase the "U.S. Market for Gourmet Foods and Beverages: Volume 2 -- Consumer Profiles," available from MarketResearch.com (see Resources). Compare the local demographics with the report's data to see if the location is a good match.
-
-
3
Decide on whether you want a general store or a specialist outlet, such as a vegetarian store. The Harris Interactive Service Bureau published a study called Vegetarianism in America in 2008, which includes data on vegetarians. The vegetarian population breaks down into 41 percent male and 59 percent female and the age group analysis is 17.4 percent are over 55, 40.7 percent are 35 to 54, and 42 percent are 18 to 34. Match this data with the demographics in your potential location. Specific ethnic food is another option. Study the breakdown of population in the location's neighborhood according to ethnic groups.
-
4
Select suppliers for your stock. Don't jump at the least expensive; it may not be the best choice for quality. Find local farmers, growers and wholesalers from business directories. Ask for customer testimonials to help your decision. Visit food trade shows to see which suppliers are represented. The "Gourmet Retailer" fine food magazine is another useful source of information on suppliers (see Resources).
-
5
Hire staff with as much experience in retailing gourmet food as possible. If this proves difficult or anyone has a knowledge gap, there may be a relevant course at a community college. Alternatively, enroll the staff member on an online distance learning course.
-
6
Plan a grand opening with incentives, such as complimentary refreshments. Invite chamber of commerce representatives, wholesalers, and a reporter and photographer from a local newspaper. To publicize the event, issue a press release in the local newspaper and organize a spot on local radio. Deliver flyers in the neighborhood and advertise in the community newsletter.
-
1
References
Resources
- Photo Credit chillies image by Hassan N from Fotolia.com
