Opening a skateboard shop can be a dream come true for many skaters. This type of business allows people to share their knowledge and passion for skateboarding with others and to make a living while doing so. As with any new business, starting a skateboard shop requires hard work, patience and careful planning, from choosing the right location to figuring out how to market the business. By keeping focused on your goal and staying motivated, you can improve your chances of making your skateboard shop a success.
Choose your location. Pick a spot that is near the local skate park, so skaters can get to your store easily. Find an area with plenty of foot traffic, ideally one that's located near other stores that appeal to teens. Finally, make sure there is at least some parking available for shoppers who are driving to your store.
Buy or rent your store. Once you've settled on a location, look for a small building that you can renovate to sell your skate products. Start small, as skateboard shops don't require a lot of floor space. You can always expand later if your business grows.
Purchase merchandise. Look for local skate supply companies or contact your favorite skateboard manufacturers and set up merchant accounts. You'll need a good variety of boards, from cheap beginner options to more advanced boards for the expert skater.
Add a small selection of skater shoes and apparel. These items are commonly found in skate shops, and your customers will expect to see them in your store. You can purchase these goods wholesale from your favorite street clothing manufacturers or skateboard companies.
Advertise your shop. Get stickers printed up that can be given out as freebies. Skateboarders often cover their boards with stickers, and this will help spread the word about your shop. Consider setting up a skateboard demonstration on opening day to draw the crowds.
Get a business license from your state, and consider incorporating or forming an LLC to separate your personal assets from the business. A list of business offices for each state can be found in the Resources.
Choose your location. Pick a spot that is near the local skate park, so skaters can get to your store easily. Find an area with plenty of foot traffic, ideally one that's located near other stores that appeal to teens. Finally, make sure there is at least some parking available for shoppers who are driving to your store.
Buy or rent your store. Once you've settled on a location, look for a small building that you can renovate to sell your skate products. Start small, as skateboard shops don't require a lot of floor space. You can always expand later if your business grows.
Purchase merchandise. Look for local skate supply companies or contact your favorite skateboard manufacturers and set up merchant accounts. You'll need a good variety of boards, from cheap beginner options to more advanced boards for the expert skater.
Add a small selection of skater shoes and apparel. These items are commonly found in skate shops, and your customers will expect to see them in your store. You can purchase these goods wholesale from your favorite street clothing manufacturers or skateboard companies.
Advertise your shop. Get stickers printed up that can be given out as freebies. Skateboarders often cover their boards with stickers, and this will help spread the word about your shop. Consider setting up a skateboard demonstration on opening day to draw the crowds.
Get a business license from your state, and consider incorporating or forming an LLC to separate your personal assets from the business. A list of business offices for each state can be found in the Resources.