What is the best way to prepare a new store for opening day?

Opening a new store is an exciting and challenging event for any retail sales manager. You want to make a great impression on your customers, staff, and competitors, and generate sales and loyalty from day one. But how do you prepare your new store for the big day? Here are some tips to help you plan, organize, and execute a successful launch.

1 Set a realistic timeline

The first step is to set a realistic timeline for your new store opening. Depending on the size, location, and type of your store, you may need to consider factors such as permits, construction, inventory, marketing, hiring, training, and testing. You should create a detailed checklist of tasks and deadlines, and assign responsibilities to your team members. You should also have some contingency plans in case of delays, errors, or emergencies.

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Albaraa Al-Thami, MSc

Retail Growth Strategy Visionary💡 | Crafting Customer-Centric Growth | Franchise Expert & Frontline Regional Leader | Marketing Analytics Expert
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I recommend having a flexible timeline and never communicate your opening day to the public unless you are 100% ready. We once upset a whole local community because the franchisor announced free phone deals and free food. So people lined up prior to opening for hours just to be surprised that they weren't allowed since their fire extinguisher permit did not get approved therefore they couldn't open that day. While setting realistic timelines are important, there are unexpected challenges that may arise especially in areas you have no control over like government inspections and so fourth. So make sure you have room in your schedule for unexpected issues

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2 Create a marketing plan

The second step is to create a marketing plan for your new store. You want to build awareness, interest, and anticipation for your grand opening, and attract as many customers as possible. You should use a mix of online and offline channels, such as social media, email, flyers, banners, radio, and local press. You should also consider offering incentives, such as discounts, coupons, free samples, or giveaways, to entice customers to visit your store. You should also monitor and measure the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns, and adjust them as needed.

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3 Train your staff

The third step is to train your staff for your new store. You want to have a competent, confident, and friendly team that can provide excellent customer service, handle transactions, and manage inventory. You should recruit and hire the right people for your store, and provide them with adequate orientation, training, and feedback. You should also communicate your expectations, goals, and policies clearly, and motivate and reward your staff for their performance.

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Dillon May

Sales Development @ Dayforce | TMU Retail Management Graduate
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During the process of opening a new store, your staff are as important as your new customers. Ensuring that staff are adequately trained allows you to spend more time with customers than dealing with the mistakes of your staff. Part of this process is setting clear expectations for your staff and the tools needed to meet those.

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4 Stock your inventory

The fourth step is to stock your inventory for your new store. You want to have enough products to meet the demand of your customers, and display them in an attractive and organized way. You should research your target market, and select the products that suit their needs, preferences, and budget. You should also order, receive, label, and store your products efficiently, and keep track of your inventory levels, sales, and returns. You should also plan for replenishment, rotation, and clearance of your inventory.

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5 Test your systems

The fifth step is to test your systems for your new store. You want to make sure that everything works smoothly and securely, and avoid any glitches or malfunctions that could disrupt your operations or customer experience. You should test your systems, such as POS, security, lighting, music, wifi, and phone, before and during your opening day, and fix any issues as soon as possible. You should also have backup systems and support in case of emergencies.

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6 Celebrate your success

The sixth and final step is to celebrate your success for your new store. You want to thank your customers, staff, and partners for their support, and share your achievements and feedback. You should also evaluate your results, and identify what worked well and what can be improved. You should also plan for your next steps, and set new goals and strategies for your store growth and development.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What is the best way to prepare a new store for opening day?

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1 Set a realistic timeline

2 Create a marketing plan

3 Train your staff

4 Stock your inventory

5 Test your systems

6 Celebrate your success

7 Here’s what else to consider

Retail Sales

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What is the best way to prepare a new store for opening day?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Set a realistic timeline

2 Create a marketing plan

3 Train your staff

4 Stock your inventory

5 Test your systems

6 Celebrate your success

7 Here’s what else to consider

Retail Sales

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