I want to open a record store that sells vinly records & videos or a online store. I just need general info about how to go about opening a record store in Houston Tx. Would it be better to start a online store or a retail store first?
Overhead is much cheaper,but it takes longer to see some sales . Unless you are already a pro in internet marketing. If you plan to go for both, it's really a no-brainer.
Do some research, are there many potential buyers in Houston TX? if not than go with a retail one 1st.
If you have enough cash to carry you for 4-8 months, I'd go retail first. Online or not, you'll need a storage location for your inventory. With a retail outlet, you get a place to keep everything *and* the benefit of walk-in sales. You'll also have the opportunity to develop a mailing list and build credibility with your customers (and suppliers). Lastly, there will be downtimes at your store ... assuming you have a computer and internet access, you can be working on your site and online marketing. Good luck ... post here when you get started. Best, - James
I would suggest first think about how much money you have to invest into this business. Also find some distributors or wholesalers of the vinyl records and other products you would like to sell. I would say start selling online with a dropshipper to get the idea of just how tough business is going to be. at the same time continue on your quest to get your retail store going. if your record/music store has no niche then you will have a lot of competition on the web and as others have said you will find more business having a retail store. good luck
I was gonna start an online record store for the longest time. I have been djing for 15 years and have literally tens of thousands sitting in the storage room. I think online would be the way to go because record stores are now going out of business. The demand for vinyl and cds have plummeted even before the ipod came out and its not looking any better now.
Well you have picked the right city to open up a record store. However if you want to open up a store here, location and advertising will be the key, and that you need money for. If you dont have a lot of capital to start with the bets idea is that you open up and online store and go from there. Westoff.
Opening the store is easy. A good supplier is hard. look to AENT Alliance Entertainment, as they distributre 260,000 titles and also have customer fulfillment program and e commerce systems that clients can utilize.