cost of starting an lfs

[sikoko]

alrighty thanks for all the replies it may be a costly venture that i'll keep in my back pocket for the time being its just something i want to do eventually. got any more info id like to hear it

 

[Chefken]

Where were you thinking?? Avon would be perfect!! Maybe Canton? LOL

 

[Brian_Indiana]

Buying an existing business is going to be by far a better investment (at first) as long as it is a reputable business. If it is a dump, you will need to overcome those negatives. In that instance, opening an opposing store would be better.

As far as rent, you can't really answer that with knowing square footage and location. At one location, $10/sq ft might be market value while it might $25 across town.

 

[sikoko]

i was planning on groton or waterford

 

[phillydog1958]

In this economy? Competition from the corporate pet stores? Mom and Pop LFS are struggling. In my locale, it seems that pet shops that sell fish, reptiles, amphibians and mammals are doing better than stores specializing in just fish.

 

[Brian_Indiana]

In this economy? Competition from the corporate pet stores? Mom and Pop LFS are struggling. In my locale, it seems that pet shops that sell fish, reptiles, amphibians and mammals are doing better than stores specializing in just fish.

Diversification is a must. Where the Mom and Pop store can excel is in knowledgeable customer service and unique stock. My experiences with PetSmart and Petco staff are that they are idiots (note: I said "my experiences." I am sure many are fine). The chain stores do not have much of a selection, especially in cichlids.

The mom and pop store will not be able to compete on price with chain stores or online vendors in supplies and equipment. They will need to really deliver on the rest of the customer experience to survive.