How to Open Your Own Comic Book Store

Knowing the trends in the comic book industry will help the success of your store.

Owning a comic book store, as with any small business, requires a well thought out business plan and research. It is important that you take into consideration your target demographic and the ability to meet the community needs for your business. Comic books are highly collectible and consumers will be looking for both new and old merchandise. Business owners must also apply for licensing through their city and state government to ensure they are operating a legal establishment.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Business plan
• Financial capital

Instructions

1. 

   Researching your competitors helps gain insight into the consumer market.

   Visit comic book stores within a 30-mile radius of your desired location. Doing this research work will give you a more educated idea of the consumer base in the area as well as let you see what merchandise is most sought after.

2. 

   Hiring an accountant to prepare taxes for your small business is a good idea to help avoid an audit.

   Use your computer to locate local and state business licensing offices. Obtaining the correct licenses and permits for your comic book business ensures there are no complicating legal issues to hinder the successful opening of your store. Having the correct business license also will ensure you can obtain a federal tax ID necessary to operate a business.

3. 

   Before you sign any documents, make sure you read it thoroughly and understand its implications.

   Contact a commercial property real estate agent. Explain to the agent the needs of your business from size to location. Before meeting with your agent, investigate your desired location area so that you can express your needs and aid in locating the perfect property.

4. 

   Fully understand the distributors contract before signing it.

   Contact distributors to acquire merchandise for your store. Most distributors require a business contract in order to ship weekly and monthly merchandise. It is also important to establish special arrangements with the distributor for special order merchandise as well.

5. 

   Using online advertising and a company website will give your business greater exposure.

   Plan a successful marketing strategy. Before the grand opening of your store you will want to get the word out to the community about your business and what you offer. Utilizing multiple media outlets will reach a wider audience base and potentially generate more customers.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep current with market trends to make sure your merchandise is up to date and in demand.

• Do not overload your store with merchandise that isn't appealing to the majority of your consumers.

References

• Toms Heros: Comic Store Owners Biggest Mistakes
• Startup Biz Hub: How to Open a Comic Book Store

Resources

• Small Business Administration
• Diamond Comic Distributors, Inc.