by Ziggy Keane

Created on: May 24, 2009   Last Updated: June 01, 2009

Opening a skateboard shop requires more than just a love of skateboarding - you must have a comprehensive business plan that lays out exactly what kinds of skateboards and related accessories you are going to sell, and how you are going to achieve that goal.

The first thing you must decide on is a location. When looking at potential spots to set up shop, think about the kind of people who live in the neighbourhood - are these people skateboarders, or potential skateboarders? Is this location near a skate park? If you can get a spot nearby a middle school or high school, this would be ideal, as this is the demographic that will make up the majority of your customers.

Once you have settled on a location, you need to make sure you secure it. Go to your bank and work out a lease agreement that suits your budget. Never try to set up a lease at a location if you have doubts about its ability to attract the type of customers you want.

As a businessperson, you will need to learn how to multi-task. While you are searching for an ideal location, start seeking out suppliers. Call as many as you can to find the cheapest prices. Your business should be about making money - never be afraid to tell a competing supplier that their competitor is offering lower prices - you may be able to get a deal by negotiating.

Once you work out one or more suppliers who are offering you good prices, you can start preparing your shop for a grand opening. Put a full page advertisement in a local newspaper that advertises your grand opening. Advertise prizes, and if there are any famous skateboarders in your area, try and convince them to attend.

This grand opening will give you a small customer base to start off with, and will increase the exposure of your store. The prizes will attract people, and if you can convince any famous skateboarders this will only boost your store's popularity. Once you have opened your store, try to maintain this hype by hosting events every few months, and make sure that you have an advertising presence at any local event related to skateboarding or youth.

You can achieve success if you work hard, and if you work smart. Keep up to date with everything skateboard related so that you are an expert - the worst thing that could happen is that a customer comes in and you don't know about the latest board, or are behind the times on the latest pro skateboarding events. Remember that you are running a specialized shop - you must be an expert.

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