South store needed ?

[sphelps]

Location is key in Calgary at this point and you're better off spending more money on rent for a spot in high traffic. If you cheap out and go somewhere isolated you'll have to spend the difference on advertisement anyway and that won't get you as far. Most of the people who are going to support the store won't be found on sites like Canreef. You'll never be able to compete with internet pricing so your market isn't going to be internet based. The old Big Als did good, despite the fact that there dry goods where expensive, because they knew how to bring people in. Great location and a huge sign that said LIVE SHARKS. They would definitely still be up and running if they weren't driven out by Winners. That's another good piece of advice, avoid locations close to large chain stores

[lorenz0]

So here is my problems with stores these days. dry goods.

Calgary needs a supplier for ATI. Closest company is progressive reef.

I wrote a huge ramble but it was mostly my personal idea's if i ever decide to open my own store.

[kien]

the most difficult part about opening this supposed store in the south is going to be what to name the store!

We can one-up the old Big Al's with a honking huge sign that says, "LIVE SHARKS, WITH FREAKING LASERS!"

[globaldesigns]

Originally Posted by kien

the most difficult part about opening this supposed store in the south is going to be what to name the store!

We can one-up the old Big Al's with a honking huge sign that says, "LIVE SHARKS, WITH FREAKING LASERS!"

Who are we going to get to be Minnie Me? HEHE

[lastlight]

I think the toughest part is mounting said laser beams.

I'd support a store in the south. I also agree the location will need to be pretty decent to bring traffic.

[lorenz0]

If a store is started in the deep south, remember that your cutting out anyone from the other side of calgary. To be honest 130th is basically only going to cater to anyone i that area. I think you guys should make a poll cause remember, the SW doesn't have a store either and the closest store to them is red coral and thats still at least a 30 min drive

[globaldesigns]

Originally Posted by lorenz0

If a store is started in the deep south, remember that your cutting out anyone from the other side of calgary. To be honest 130th is basically only going to cater to anyone i that area. I think you guys should make a poll cause remember, the SW doesn't have a store either and the closest store to them is red coral and thats still at least a 30 min drive

One thing to remember, good service will bring them in. A good example is I live in Bridlewood (22X) and I drive to see Kevin at Red Coral. Quite a drive, but I do it because he treats me good.

[steveybb]

+1 on what globaldesigns said, I'm from red deer, and I have no problem driving to red coral for stuff, the good service is what will get you business!

[Palmer]

Not to derail this thread but...

I have thought about starting a business for other hobbies I have been involved with in the past and I came to the conclusion that I probably wouldn't like my hobby as much if it became my full time job. I am curious if people who transition from being strictly a hobbyist to retail store owner still spend as much time at home with their tanks or enjoy it as much. Probably not a question I would directly ask a vendor since its not great advertisement for their business if their enthusiam for the hobby has changed.

Palmer

[FlamesFan]

Im in silverado. Go south... WAY SOUTH! Yes I agree, I usually have to plan a half day event to travel to a salt water store.