Gifts and Collectibles Retail Shop Business Plan

Executive Summary

Classique Gifts Etc. is a start-up retail store offering fine gifts, collectible dolls and doll accessories. The store will be located in Lexington, Kentucky, catering to the middle- and upper-class consumers who look beyond the congested retail malls for the special shopping experience. In addition to offering a wide array of unique, quality products, the consumer will enjoy friendly and knowledgeable customer service and a convenient, uncongested location.

This business plan is prepared to obtain financing in the amount of $50,000 to purchase inventory and to help cover expenses in the first year of operations. We are also asking for a credit line of $10,000 to be used as necessary in low cash flow periods. Brenda and Charles Gajdik will own and operate the store together as a team. They will provide $40,000 in cash as an equity investment to be used in start-up costs, equipment purchases, and operating capital.

The sales forecasts used in this plan are very conservative compared to a similar business now operating in Lexington. Brenda has observed the strengths and weaknesses of this store and is convinced it can be done better.

1.1 Objectives

• To develop Classique Gifts Etc. into the premier gift retail store in Central Kentucky.
• To begin and maintain a gross profit margin above 40% for the first year.
• To acquire a customer base of 4,000 by the end of the second year by using personal customer service and marketing.
• To achieve a substantial net profit by the end of Year 3.

1.2 Mission

Classique Gifts Etc.will be a retail gift store specializing in fine gifts, collectible dolls and doll accessories. We want to provide products from quality suppliers and provide professional customer service in a friendly environment.

1.3 Keys to Success

To succeed in this business we must:

• Sell products the customer desires and are of the highest quality.
• Provide friendly customer service.
• Establish excellent vendor/supplier relations that will facilitate quick shipment of orders.
• Advertise and promote our store immediately to take advantage of the current Christmas shopping season.
• Continuously review our inventory and sales and adjust our inventory levels based on detailed records.