“Starting a Grocery Store Business”
Comment Page 1

  • l road said on September 14, 2009
    I want to sell salvage groceries at flea markets as I see many people do but I live in central florida and no one will tell me where I cam buy them. please if you know email me with info. thanks
  • Varsha said on September 15, 2009
    I want to open an Indian grocery store and have no experience. I don't know how to start and if anyone can give me some advice, i will really appreciate it.
  • Jay Hernandez beginner adviser said on September 16, 2009
    @ Lewis (9/16/09) --> in Michign, grocers are required to have a food handlers license. You can get this from your state dept. of health or, in some instances, dept. of agriculture.

    My question: I am well into my process of opening a full-line grocery store in my city. I have loads of retail experience, but none in managing a grocery store. Where can I find training for ordering food from national distributors?
  • Jay Hernandez beginner adviser said on September 16, 2009
    @ ownsix (123.) --> you seem to have a host of experience operating a grocery store. I appreciate your comments. Would you be willing to share more info. on running a store for beginners like me?
  • juliet said on September 24, 2009
    hi. i have an idea to open a grocery store and i don't really know the cost implication and its in an estate close to my house. now i really need to know what i can sell in such an environment, thanks
  • shyam said on September 27, 2009
    I want to start indian grocery store in Aurora, CO. I need more information about where to purchase the items (grocery wholesale dealer). Please contact me shyamkandallu@gmail.com
  • Priya said on September 29, 2009
    Hi Guys, I'm inserted in opening up an Indian Grocers in NE, Please provide me any kind of information regarding that, i don't have experience. Would like to know about dealers, tips for locations, contacts infact what all that i require for starting a business, i would appreciate your help, Thanks and All the best for all of you. plz contact me at msrpd24@gmail.com
  • Anwar said on September 30, 2009
    I live in Sydney, Australia. Like to start a Indian/Australian grocery from a residential area, any advise will be highly appreciated. If you have a business plan and product list please email me, my email address is shak97@gmail.com
  • Patrick said on October 3, 2009
    Like a lot of you out there, I too am thinking of starting a grocery store of my own. Just wondering how many of you have worked in the industry? I have been in the retail and grocery industry for over 15 yrs and worked for some of the largest big box chains and Organic/Natural stores. I can tell you one thing...it won't be easy. Not saying anyone can't start one but I think it would help to know a little of the business from the inside. Know the food vendors, refrigeration & security companies, health and safety policies and codes. Do you want to have a patio or sell alcohol? These will require permits. These are just some of the concerns and questions you need to ask. I have been employed at stores only 40,000 sq ft. or less and they ended up costing close to a million. This could be due to having re-designs and high rent. Rent and parking are always an issue in big cities. Know you're demographic and what other stores are offering and what you can do that will separate you from the others. Hope everyone lives the dream and finds the way to do it! Good luck. :)
  • David said on October 9, 2009
    I want to learn more about opening a grocery store and an organic candy/chocolate store. I would like to know if anyone would be open to offering me advise along with what I should include in my business plan to be successful. Contact me at jdaveb@bellsouth.net Thank you in advance for your assistance.
  • Damodaran said on October 21, 2009
    Hi, I am about to start off a Grocery Shop, Please provide me any kind of information regarding that, Would like to know about dealers, tips for locations, contacts. I would appreciate your help, Thanks and All the best for all of you. plz contact me at dharanjayam@yahoo.com
  • Sabrina said on October 25, 2009
    my fiance and I want to open a community store, we already have a name but don't know how to go about getting a grant or how to go about making sure the name we choose is ours to keep, Please write me with info. thanks
  • sain said on October 28, 2009
    Hi Joni, I am planning to open an Indian grocery store in Los Angeles. I need your help for this. how to set up furniture, fridges and from where to get groceries on whole sale prices and where to get billing machine?? My email is thomassaino@gmail.com. Anyone has details how to start an Indian Grocery store, please email me at thomassaino@gmail.com. Thanks, sain
  • Kathy said on November 1, 2009
    Hello Everyone, I want to know about the insurance and if i need it to be a small business? Emergency exits? Any information will Help Thanks! -Kathy
  • Dawne Eng beginner adviser said on November 21, 2009
    Anyone out there able to help me figure out what kinds of insurance is needed for a grocery store? Fire, Liability, what else? Also how much insurance will cost/yr in NYC area?

    And if anyone else in the NYC area is trying to start a food retail business and wants to share resources/help each other, post your email and I will contact you. As much as I wish everyone luck, I'll only be responding to NYC area folks, sorry.

    Also to other fellow grocery store entrepreneurs; I see this attracts a global audience and I'm from NYC area but I can share a few thoughts:

    1. Try to take a business planning classes if you can, or at the least take a class to help you write a business plan. Even the smallest grocery store will benefit from this process.

    2. There is a book on fabjob.com called "How to Open a Gourmet Food Store" but it also applies to Organic and Specialty food stores; this is a wealth of information.

    3. Some costs to consider just for start up budget: Rent, Security deposit, Lawyer fees, Build out space, Store fixtures/equipment, Computer hardware/software or cash register, Sign for store, Alarm system, Licenses, Permits, Marketing, Inventory, Supplies, Loan fees if applicable, Utilities (Elec will be a lot), Phone, Internet, Working Capital, Grand Opening, Contingencies.

    4. Costs to consider for Operating budget: Cost of goods, Rent, Salaries, Loan repayment if applicable, Utilities, Phone, Internet, Insurance, Payroll tax, Equipment maintenance, Marketing, Office Supplies, Membership fees, Trade shows, Accountant, Bookkeeper, Technology, Contingencies

    5. B/T/W, I could be wrong, but I doubt that "Joni" is still reading this site to answer every person that needs help.
  • Kelly said on November 23, 2009
    Does anyone have any numbers on scratch and dent grocery stores. The average size or average sales a year, etc.? Doing a feasibility study and can not find anything regarding stats for this type of grocery store. Please email me at mccormickfamily31@verizon.net if you have any information on these type of stores. Thank you, Kelly
  • clapton said on November 25, 2009
    hi there, I want to open a grocery store in canada. I need more information about where to purchase the items (grocery wholesale dealer)its very urgent. i would appreciate if anyone helps..thank u. Please contact me at ali.clapton@yahoo.ca
  • Victor said on December 9, 2009
    Does anybody know deli, grocery store owners forum? I searched net and couldn't find any. Thanks
  • Luis said on December 26, 2009
    Brooklyn, NY USA. I want to start grocery store /deli. I need tips how to start and how much it could cost.
  • Akeel said on January 10, 2010
    Joni i need your help as well i want to open a grocery shop as well but have no experience in this so i am asking your assistant..this is in Grenada West Indies (Caribbean). OH Joni my email address is akeelhenry@hotmail.com
  • DIPAK said on January 13, 2010
    Joni I am willing to open up a small grocery store i need some advice maybe you can help me. Please provide me your email address mine is dipak_dwk@yahoo.com
  • Bill said on January 15, 2010
    I am in WI and am working on starting my own grocery store. If you have questions E-mail me. I have worked in grocery for over 20 years. wewjr4@gmail.com
  • lisa said on January 18, 2010
    I live in a tourist area in WI. We have recently lost are "mom and pop" grocery store. The issue many people feel is to going a major grocery store is a pain for the simple needs. I think this may be a business opportunity. If anyone has advice id greatly appreciate it.
  • kamir said on January 20, 2010
    Where do I buy the food a small grocers? I can pretty find supplies such as shelves, equipment, etc. but I am not having any luck in knowing where to purchase from to get the best products at the best prices. Do I purchase different product from each different vendor or is there a general place that grocer owners can buy majority of their good?
  • Gopalakrishnan said on January 23, 2010
    I intend to start a grocery shop in Pittsburgh, Pensylvania State, USA. I would like to know the process. I am not a green card holder or a citizen of USA. But my son is a citizen of US.
  • ravi said on January 26, 2010
    I WANT TO START ONE INDIAN GROCERY SHOP. MY LOCATION IS LIVERPOOL, NEW SOUTH WALES, AUSTRALIA 2170. PLEASE GUIDE ME HOW TO START WHAT ARE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS AND WHAT IS PROCESS. FOR THAT . THANK YOU RAVI
  • angela said on January 28, 2010
    how much does a small deli make a day. location in upper manhattan, ny, ny?
  • Darla said on January 29, 2010
    I have an old Mercantile built in 1915 I plan on opening up with part of it being used as a small grocery store in Wyoming, 35 miles from COdy. Very small town. My questions are 1) what type of licensing do I need, 2)is it smarter to purchase items from a wholesale place to stock the store to begin till we find out how much we need is it wiser to get started with a trade association. Any suggestions welcome.
  • Peter said on February 5, 2010
    I want to start a grocery and news agent shop nearby a college and university. There is also a residential area nearby. Any suggestions and ideas that what should I sell and how to manage. I am new in this field. I am in UK, Yorkshire area. Any suggestions and ideas welcome with thanks.
  • Alethea said on February 5, 2010
    I want to fill the need of a college area as well as the need for people who does not have a car. I have the perfect area like I just described. The big chain store closed in December 2009 and left the market wide open. Please help! lovettisc@yahoo.com
  • Luke beginner adviser said on February 12, 2010
    Hi guys, to all you out there wanting to open your own store.

    Like you, I too am dreaming of opening my own store. I have thought of some advice to give you, some thoughts I have gone through myself, and what you need to survive. Before you read on, I want to mention that I am NOT giving you specific costs etc, just GUIDANCE.

    First off, you have to look at yourself. Question why you want to start your own business, how you think you could succeed in what is now-a-days a very tough job sector, and what will make you different from others.

    My first advice is quite obvious really - DO YOUR HOMEWORK. I read an article (can't remember the exact figure for the life of me..) but something like 80% of all small businesses fail after their first 2 years trading. Don't rush into spending any money until you have thought every single little detail out. Here’s a few starting points to think about;

    WHERE: Location is a very important factor when starting a business - especially a grocery store. You need to know where the nearest competition is, and what makes you stand out from them. What’s the rent? Lowering your costs, not just improves profit directly, but it means you can lower your prices attracting many more customers (indirectly improving your profits too!!). If you’re in a competitive area, you really are going to struggle unless you offer something completely different to everyone else.

    HOW: So what do you know about retail? I myself have many years experience at a leading supermarket. I have been a shop filler, a cashier, and a manger. I am highly trained in stock replenishment, customer service, staff management and many more aspects of running a store.

    WHY: Why are you going to succeed? You’re going to succeed because you are going to put all your efforts, all your focus, attention, and heart into it. That's really the best advice I could ever give you. You can never fail if you want something so very bad.

    One important factor you must ask yourself if you are near a recently closed store...why do you think it closed down? I've heard many people speak in here about finding great locations where stores used to be etc etc. The post above me sums up my next point. Do your research into the area. 'Alethea' mentions a college area nearby. Now that’s a great chance in itself! All you need to do is focus on what their NEEDS and WANTS are, mix in a great low price, and you have before school, during school breaks, and after school trade nearly everyday, and that’s ONTOP of your normal customers.

    One of the greatest tips I've been given by a business wiz is most businesses are sitting on a gold mine of customers - RETURN CUSTOMERS. Return (or lack of) customers make or break a business. Make sure your shop layout is logical, make sure your warm and friendly greetings are constant, and make them feel they have left the store with a great deal (through either pricing deals, or product quality).

    To answer a big question: WHAT TO SELL?

    Well, what do you think people need? 'Peter' mentions a college and university nearby. How about the obvious? Prepared sandwiches and drinks (near the door - unlike 'normal' customers students don't like wasting break times. Just look at where the sandwich counter is in any other shop to see my point). How about the house holds essentials for the nearby residential area? Dairy products such as milk, butter, cheese. Groceries such as tinned foods, crisps, snacks. Maybe get a license to sell official Lotto tickets and scratch cards. The options are endless. You just need to do some research into what you think people need! (and even more importantly - what they WANT!).

    Ok, that’s it really. If you are one of the hundred plus people above asking for exact and instant answers, then I think you really need to take a step back. Not only is it impossible for me to tell you what is the best thing to do in your area (every area being different, and therefore there is no such fail safe plan for every geographical area), but if you’re not willing to find this out for yourself, making surveys, talking to local suppliers, looking at rent rates for different locations, then I think you don't have the drive and correct mindset to make a successful business. Sometimes you have to do things for yourself, find things out yourself.

    Good luck to those who are making a success, and let the profit grow by the day!

    Luke.
  • Glynn said on February 16, 2010
    Hi everyone, I am a partner in a small investment group. We want to open a grocery store in the Dominican Republic. Can someone help us with as much information as possible on operating a grocery store internationally. mail me :glynntrk1@yahoo.com
  • Michael said on February 16, 2010
    Hello all i live in Indiana am trying to open a store here in this small town. I have got the groceries i just need to find out who owns the building no one seems to know i live 12 miles from a store so this would be a good spot any way you all can try www.troyers.com they have all the items meats can goods and they are going to help me. when i find the person that owns it. troyers told me to go to the county court house with the address and they can help me
  • RONKE said on February 22, 2010
    Hi Joni, I plan to open a sizable grocery store in my country. I would really appreciate and management/stocking ideas and tips you can give me. Also, what kind of margins are we looking at? Any kind of refund for expired goods? Would also appreciate if you can share how to reach wholesalers. Email is ronkeakingbade@hotmail.com. Look forward to hearing from you. Many thanks.
  • vaida said on February 23, 2010
    Hi I would like some info on opening a bosnian grocery store, if you can give me any tips how to start I would love it and appreciate very much, thank you in advance
  • Robert Buff said on February 24, 2010
    I was wondering in starting a grocery business where would I look to start buying items to stock my store with. I am considering starting either a rural regular grocery market or suburban green grocery
  • Emmanuel said on February 27, 2010
    I've convinced myself about opening a grocery and supermarket in a suburban town in Oyo state, Nigeria where a tertiary institution is located. I need some ideas how to go about it.
  • rauben magezi said on March 4, 2010
    i've already started the grocery shop in RWENZORI region KASESE district in uganda, pearl of Africa, and the name of the business is XTRMEMULTECH.ENTERPRISES LTD. i have no website yet, and am seeking financial support. you reach me on +256775241105/+256772223053... raubenmagezi@yahoo.com
  • Joseph Wilson said on March 6, 2010
    I am interested in starting a neighborhood grocery store. I recently retired and am interested in opening a grocery store in the neighborhood that I grew up in Louisville, Kentucky. The areas closest store is about 3-4 miles away.
  • johnr said on March 6, 2010
    i have extensive grocery experience. in terms of set, (what products go with what), line ups, displays, store layouts. i've done instore renovations on a major grocery chain in canada which consisted of merchandising the store(s) across Ontario for a year. could name thousands of products that i am familiar with. follow sales planner and know how to order without flooding the backroom. i am almost 3/4 through my business portfolio. i have 1 question. how do i obtain my product? i know what i want and where i want it. but how do i get it?
  • M Chavez beginner adviser said on March 11, 2010
    Interesting comments in regards to starting small or big box store formats. It sounds complicated but it really isn't (of course it is). Set down a basic outline, A. Product Lines/Foot Print (HBA, Grocery, Fresh departments (produce, meat, deli, bakery)). By this time in your business plan a general idea has been established as to the size of the store you want to open. Mid size stores can be as small as a 1000 sq ft up to the big box foot prints of 160000sq ft. My favorite store size is 20,000 sq ft. Very easy to manage, big enough to compete and large enough to make adjustments to perishable departments. B. Establish your basic margins for each department (Wal-Mart and others run a basic 30% on all food based products, not taking in to account ad specials or introductory adjusted prices where you generate more margins or use the lower prices to fight your competitors down the street. Your fresh food departments have to carry stronger margins, 40% to 60% because of waste generated from poor purchases, bad rotation and general day to day trim. C. Pick your suppliers.. produce, grocery (all frozen items), fresh meat, cheeses, milk. Break these departments also into groups (for margin and retail control). There are large support warehousing organizations that a person can go to get prices and a full selection of national brands and private label brands. Google, Dog Pile, Yahoo or any search engine will bring up IGA type warehouses in your area of operations. Ethnic operations have a harder time locating items for their customers which only means that you have to find your source in the big cities. Indians, Arabs, Hispanics, European all have their own pipe line. The only disadvantage to some of these suppliers is the cost of trucking or shipping. D. Establish your aisles and store sets. E. Purchase scanning and computer software, begin logging in all UPC's and retails so you can view your average margins. You can at this point either decide to increase or adjust opening prices against your average. F. Hire your staff. G. Train Train Train. Of course there are a hundred different points I'm leaving out but I just wanted to comment with the others here in this medium. Good luck in opening your store. M

    Grocery Business Expert

  • phil said on March 11, 2010
    I am looking for any and all information about opening up a grocery store / fruit market / bakery / deli. If anyone can help me I would really appreciate it. I have prime location but not much information about how to actually start up the business from scratch. Including writing the business plan, finding investors/getting loans, number of employees, equipment, budget of everything, etc. Please e-mail me at placolla13@yahoo.com with any and all information. I am also looking for a mentor to look up to. I have a lot of drive and motivation but no one to look up to. I probably wont be on this site anymore so please respond back to me by email placolla13@yahoo.com
  • sridhar said on March 14, 2010
    hi I am a grocery merchant from bangalore India. I can help you sourcing any grocery and spices. my id is s.sridhar@ymail.com
  • Jessica said on March 30, 2010
    Hi I really need some help. I just opened a store and I need to figure out a good way to track my lotto and tobacco inventory. How do other stores do it? HELP PLEASE!!!
  • bernard vet said on April 4, 2010
    hello my name is bernard. i see by all this question above. you are a person that people like and you have the answer to everything then you can help me out please. i'm new to this i just left army in 2006. i dont want to work for anyone but myself, just because i got blown up and really cant deal with 8 to 12 hours shift a day. my doctor tell me i need to go somewhere peaceful so i choose tacoma washington i was station out there as well. right now i'm living in new york in tacoma washington state i want to open an organic food store and would like your help in locating food items and basic. thank you, bernard
  • Tara said on April 4, 2010
    How can I possibly start a business with bad credit! It's a voluntary repo $6000,00. and a $300.00 credit card that's it how is anyone going to give me a loan to start my business!
  • Scott said on April 6, 2010
    So my problem is that I have a great location, yet a few hundred yards away is a 7/11 store. Not my target shopper. I want a small food store where neighborhood shoppers can get fresh produce, meats, and household goods. Items not available at the other guy's store. Word has it that he does not want me anywhere near him. Understood, yet it would be perfect for the neighborhood. I want to come up with a neighborhood letter stating the need for our family style market. Anyone had to do this?
  • john oliveros said on April 10, 2010
    pangasinan, philippines. i'm planning to start my own grocery store in a small town here in philippines could you please give me some tips on how to succeed on this venture, i have seen some small groceries around the area and one big grocery store, but my problem is the location.
  • Rakesh B beginner adviser said on April 12, 2010
    Hi All, I am an Accountant and have read most of your questions and inquiries. Let me tell you from accounting perspective the following vital issues. It is imperative that you do your research in many different ways such as;
    -suitable site
    -surrounding area and your prospective customers
    -What you want to sell and for how much
    -what is the amount of upfront capital you have available to invest in this business
    -important to do a best/worst case scenario analysis
    -do a comprehensive(detailed) cost analysis
    -do an ROI return on investment analysis to see if you were to investment your capital elsewhere what ROI would you receive alternatively
    -Who will manage your business, if it is you what are you worth working for someone rather than for yourself, e.g if your annual net is $80k but after investing in your business you are working 7 days a week but only making $20k per annum?
    Do not rush into making a decision, please always consider the alternatives so that you have a good "apples to apples" comparison. Good luck

    Grocery Business Expert

  • Quartez said on April 12, 2010
    I'm from Flint Michigan and me and my fiance want to open an a grocery store business together and need some help on how to get started we need all information available. Please email
  • Lawrence Murphy said on April 13, 2010
    new york, not yet sure where at. can I get a rough figure on to start up a grocery store. A small business
  • Karin Mac said on April 15, 2010
    Yes I am trying to find out information on buying and opening a small grocery store. I have found one in my town that is soon going out of business, what kind of licenses will I need how, do I go about finding all of this out?
  • syed rizvi said on April 16, 2010
    how i can improve my grocery store please visit at 140 wattvill road b21odp birmingham, thankyou.
  • mike3jj said on April 18, 2010
    I have just bought a shophouse by the highway. My money end up in buying the shophouse. I'm penniless and bills keep coming in. Help me to start the grocery business, I don't know how? How to get financial to start business? I know I have to do renovation but need money fast...second things can I get supplies from somebody here? North Borneo, Malaysia.
  • Dlo said on April 26, 2010
    I worked at this grocery store and the owners were paid out the ass! They barely came in but I want to be an active part of my store. Anyone looking for a good business partner. I'm here and willing and I have plenty money! I just need a partner to have my back. dlocorn@gmail.com
  • Stan said on April 27, 2010
    Hi guys! I am like all of you - looking for any information possible. All i see here just questions but there are no answers. Is there any grocery store opening forum or something like that? Thanks
  • Laura said on April 30, 2010
    I am writing a fictitious business plan, a international grocery store for school. Where can I find suppliers and what kind equipment will I need. If any one has blueprint for store it would give me ideas.
  • Praveen Kumar said on May 2, 2010
    Dear Brother ... Pl.s give this information to Bava ..and you can find in google for any details about super market .. and search for permissions and registrations also.....
  • yawer said on May 4, 2010
    Hi guys..I want to know how can i start a mini superstore where i can sell all vegetable, fruit, meat and juices etc and how i will manage this if i will hire manager or workers. thanks. plz send me email on yawer@douxad.com
  • umar bukar mala said on May 4, 2010
    NNPC fuel station, Abakwa total, Kaduna state, Nigeria. i want to open shop. i will be selling dried vegetables like baobab leaves, spinach, okra e.t.c. can i call it a grocery store?
  • amanda said on May 9, 2010
    hi i am planing on opening international grocery store in maryland, what the cons and pros i need to search for? And how do i get started by finding a suppliers?
  • Vin said on May 9, 2010
    Any ideas on a Fruit and Produce store? We're currently selling at a roadside stand...would like a storefront. Anyone with experience in Fruit and Produce? We have a few major grocery chains in our town of 40,000 people in Connecticut. We have suppliers that we are currently buying from....ideas?? ps we have plenty of retail experience from package store to Floral and ladies boutique. 30 years+
  • Patrick said on May 11, 2010
    My company can supply most of your frozen retail pack needs at below wholesale costs. All of our product is in date and not damaged. We can ship anywhere in the southeast and may be able to work something out if you are not. Email me at phardy11@comcast.net
  • Mike F said on May 14, 2010
    I am starting a small foods store in WI. Could you help with some questions I have about a business plan and setting up the store. Thank you, Mike. here is my e-mail. stockscrenr@hotmail.com
  • Jim beginner adviser said on May 16, 2010
    Hello everyone, My name is Jim. I currently work as a food distributor and I also own an advertising business. Many of you have been asking about profit margins. I have listed the costs and suggested retail prices to some of the items I distribute.

    Stacy's Pita Chips 8oz bag $2 cost - $2.99 retail
    Snyder's Tortilla Chips 16oz $2.15 cost-$2.99 retail
    Pirate's Booty 4oz bag $2 cost - $2.99 retail
    Popcorn Indiana 10.5oz bag $2.70 cost $3.99 retail

    These items and most items from independent vendors are guaranteed so if they go stale or break, the vendor will give you credit for them. This is usually true for snack food, bread, pastries, soda, other beverages, etc. I do not believe this is the same for grocery distributors who would bring you items such as bulk meat and bulk produce. After you figure out your costs, the key to long term success is to build a turn-key system. So that everything you do has a method to it. This will remove much of the thinking, therefore reducing the stress of running a small business.

    If anyone would like assistance in building a strong brand for your business, let me know. I can help you develop a solution where customers will enjoy shopping at your store, tell their friends and continue to return time and time again.

    Things to keep in mind:
    What does the store look like?
    Is it easy to navigate?
    Is it clean and fresh looking?
    How does it smell?

    Your answers to these questions are important but in the end, all that matters is what your customers think. Everyone sees through different eyes to make sure to ask quick simple questions from time to time. "Did you enjoy shopping here today?" "Is there anything we can do to improve our business so we may serve you better?" I hope this post helps. Feel free to email me with any questions you may have. jim@citispectrum.com
    Thanks, - Jim

    Grocery Business Expert

  • Jim beginner adviser said on May 16, 2010
    Here is some additional information that might help. An excellent place to search for commercial real estate for rent or sale is loopnet.com. You can register for free and search for and view most of the listing. There is another website called webstrauntstore.com. They have supplies for the restaurant industry but still may help. They have walk-in coolers, refrigerated display cases. I would also look into Displays2Go.com, they have a wide selection of signs and displays that may help. Last, there is a new website called AliExpress.com that has direct sourcing at smaller quantities, direct from manufacturers.

    Grocery Business Expert

  • Paula said on May 21, 2010
    OK, I've opened my specialty foods market, it's doing well and we're covering expenses - now how do we make a profit? Right now all $$ goes back into replacing inventory - now what??
  • Sapna karwadi said on May 23, 2010
    Hi JOHN, I want to open small grocery business my email is shika20011@rediffmail.com plz tell me from the A TO Z how to start a business
  • Riz said on May 24, 2010
    Hi Joni, I've been longing to open a small Filipino grocery store here in Lorton, VA. At the same time, I would like to mix it with some Filipino to go food. Could you help me with your expertise on this please? Thanks, Riz Lazo Saleh
  • Ganesh Giri said on May 26, 2010
    I would like to have more information and advice to start up a new business, specially i m looking to buy a store - business. so could u help me how to search good store in good location and in good price? Regards Ganesh Giri
  • blessing Mazodze said on May 28, 2010
    I am doing an investment evaluation and would like to know specifically what are the fixtures needed to set up a grocery shop
  • uduak said on May 29, 2010
    Dear Sir, I am a Nigerian based in Portharcourt the capital of River State. Please I will need a guide on how to open a grocery shop(provision shop) in portharcourt nigeria. thanks
  • Mike said on May 30, 2010
    I am thinking of opening a bulk priced foods store in Wi. where is a good place to find plastic containers to break the food down in smaller packages? any help would be great.
  • bill feader said on June 1, 2010
    i have a 10k sq ft.store in a small coastal community. my parents bought it and i am now taking over. we have owned it for 30 yrs. i am experienced in all aspects of the grocery store, being a journeyman meatcutter, produce, grocery, dairy, office. willing to do consulting. i like to do most of the work myself, and get 6 or more part time cashiers, and deli servers to to have great customer service, without paying too much in wages. keep your store bright and clean, costs low, and have quality meats, produce and deli, bakery items, and you should succeed.open 8-8 if possible and have store in "showroom"condition for am opening.
  • Nabs said on June 3, 2010
    Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. I'm looking at buying an existing grocery store. This store is ran by family (father + 3 sons + daughter + daughter in law), open 7 days/week. I'm alone, no family. How easy is it to take over a business ran by family, and what are my chances of success? I do have another business that I drop in few hours a day, and I don't want the grocery to take up my whole time, and the weekend. Is it do-able? all advise is appreciated.
  • Bridget said on June 3, 2010
    Hello I'm Bridget, i'm currently a high school senior and taking an entrepreneurship class. I want to know what is the basic licenses I need to own and fully operate a grocery store. My teacher is the banker and I have to propose a business plan to her for a loan. I have to make a business plan and I need to know about the licenses and insurances needed. Thank you for any input i can get!
  • ANIL KHATRI said on June 4, 2010
    HELLO, I am planning to open a indian grocery store in san diego, california and would like to get tips on requirements and lease negotiations process. please advice me or send me link so i would look into that thanks in advance. -Anil
  • varun said on June 4, 2010
    hi, friends. i need to know what all the LEGAL things to be done to open a grocery store in hyderabad, india. and if anyone can provide me the distributors list of hyd will be very helpful for me kindly help me...
  • B Waters beginner adviser said on June 9, 2010
    Hi Everyone, I am working on opening a small neighborhood grocery store in Atlanta, GA. My husband works for an organic produce distributor, so we already have a supplier lined up. They extend product on Net dating terms which allows you flexibility with your cash flow. Just make sure you pay your suppliers on time to maintain good credit standing. If you are in the Southeast US area, Destiny Organics and Global supply to this area. Check out your organic farm suppliers as well. They can supplement with seasonal crops and great to feature local businesses in your store, especially since there is a huge locavore movement.

    Check out other grocery stores in your area and in other states for lay out and product ideas. After all, opening a grocery store is nothing new and many successful business owners have found ideal layouts and product offerings. You don't have to reinvent the wheel and can certainly be inspired by what works for them and/or how you can cater more towards your specific market. Whether you plan on opening the small neighborhood market or want a larger grocery operation like a Whole Foods or Earh Fare; use these businesses to get an idea of how to lay out your store and product to carry.

    Manage your inventory. The margins in the grocery business are really tight and you are dealing with products with a shorter shelf life. Don't overbuy, but keep track of what sells out quickly so that you can keep up with demand. Find a way to "reprofit" bad produce by turning it into compost that you can resell. Saw this at a co-op. Great idea to turn your rotting produce into a profit.

    Commercial leases are suffering due to the recession. Ask for free rent for so many months in exchange for signing a longer term lease. This can help give you at least 3-6 months to get the business off the ground while using that much needed capital to invest into equipment, inventory, labor, etc. There are a lot of empty retail spaces out there and it never hurts to ask. Just make sure it is in the right location and you understand the demographic you plan to serve. Conduct market research by surveying the people you plan to sell.

    If you have bad credit, it will be tough to open a store unless you already have enough start-up funds to get the store open, filled, and operating to generate cash flow. Finding investors or partners can also help you get your business off the ground if you have poor credit. Ask your family and friends. Check out micro-funding in your area. These sources can lend up to $10K and do not solely base it on your credit.

    Hope this info helps. Small businesses generate much needed jobs in the US and remember food is the number one item people spend their money on even in a recession. Good Luck to you all!!

    Grocery Business Expert

  • Mike said on June 16, 2010
    I am working on my Business plan for a small specialty foods store. 2000 sq ft. I need some help with the financial part of my plan. How do I figure out the sales I will generate for my plan. Any help would be great. please e-mail me at stockscrenr@hotmail.com
  • muhammed rafeeq said on June 17, 2010
    it is a beautiful article. but i want know how to prepare the business plan, what are the most important factors, while we are thinking about supermarket. how much population is needed for start real one ?
  • magezi rauben said on June 19, 2010
    am intending to start up a grocery shopping center in the mt rwenzori region, in Uganda i would like to find any established company or individual interested in partnership in this line to write to me on the above email or call me on +256779601619 or +256775241105 and +256772223053.
  • Dalton Smith said on June 25, 2010
    I am 15 and was able to start my own independent grocery store. I come from a large family and am pretty fortunate that my grandma use to own the town's IGA store that she shut down last year since she was retiring. My aunt and uncle owned a property on the "main drag" of town and a pet store ended their lease with them. So I mentioned to them that a grocery store would be a good business to start up and it would be pretty affordable since my grandma still had a lot of equipment from IGA. It took me 3 months and a lot of hard work and effort, but thankfully Village Foods is doing great, 8 months later. Our advantage is that we own many businesses, including Fresh Cut Meat Shop so everything is fresh and produced locally. Our monthly income from Village Foods is about $3,000 , but remember we just started less than a year ago and we are expanding our selection of locally produced, organic foods. If your visiting Byesville, Ohio say hello when you go to Village Food Market (next to Dollar General on Est. Main Street).
  • Angie Lynch said on June 28, 2010
    HI! I live in a city of about 7000 people. We have a walmart and fareway. Walmart carries NOTHING in the way of all natural/organic foods. Fareway is a little better, offering some gluten free items. I have to drive about 40 miles to get some real food! SO for the last two years I have been really wanting to open a store! Does anyone have any advice? I have a degree in graphic communications, and have been working as a graphic designer for the last 10 years, so my forte isn't in retail :) I think it would go over nicely! My email is angielynch78@indytel.com Any advice or information would be greatly appreciated!!
  • mark Fitzpatrick said on June 29, 2010
    Hi, My name is Mark and I am in the buisness of selling Used store fixtures.I have sold fixtures to many grocery start up stores owners. I provide all shelving counters, refrigeration- self contained or remote. Meat cases, Oeli Cases, Produce cases, Walk-in coolers. All back room storage shelving. AS well as installation Help design/lay-out Call Mark at 702-883-8792 or email
  • Collins Jumbo said on July 2, 2010
    Hi Everyone, please i am Collins and wants to open a Standard Grocery in Abuja Nigeria and will subsequently make a chain all across Nigeria, please want to know the profit margin in percentage of grocery products especially in a City like Abuja where everything is on the high side.
  • Ramesh Gaoncar said on July 4, 2010
    I am Ramesh from Goa, I am planning to start a Grocery Mini market in my city Madel-Thivim Goa, I am looking for wholesalers, distributors and suppliers of all sorts of grocery items as well as cold storage equipments. Please could everyone help me to suggest your own ideas and thoughts to established the well managed mini market to success in my dream business, Thanks n regards.
  • rain said on July 7, 2010
    Joni and anybody else who have advices and suggestions... please help. I've thought about opening my own grocery store but never really got into it. I've recently been laid off and now realized that this is something i really want to do but I have no idea how to get anything started. I have a location in mind but don't even know if its available. Any help would be greatly appreciated. My email is lang_tianshi@yahoo.com thank you.
  • Rohit said on July 7, 2010
    Please count me in @ ca_la_24@yahoo.com I want to open an Indian Grocery store in MA. Joni and all friends, enlighten me as well.
  • Aditi said on July 9, 2010
    I want to open up a indian grocery store in Charleston SC. Please contact me at dasguptaaditi@hotmail.com Any help is greatly appreciated. Aditi
  • RAHAAT said on July 10, 2010
    sir i have completed my graduation in bachelor of arts(B.A) in 2009 and now i want to start my own business like grocery etc. i am always confused how can i start i always think about what are the first steps required to start a new business i am living in India state is J&K dist. is Kupwara please give me some important tips to start a new business and what books i read daily about business and give me some addition suggestion about people what they want in present age. THANKS
  • Jennifer said on July 13, 2010
    My fiance and I just moved to a small town and are considering opening a small grocery store in town. Any suggestions would be a great help. E-mail me at d28thday@yahoo.com. Thanks!
  • Radhakrishna said on July 14, 2010
    i need the inventory price list based on Hyderabad rates for all grocery and FMCG products like what is whole sale purchasing price and sales price. please help me...
  • Mike said on July 15, 2010
    Joni, I am working on the finance part of my business plan. Could you please e-mail me. I have some questions. I think you could help. my e-mail is stockscrenr@hotmail.com. Thank you. Mike
  • Mike said on July 17, 2010
    # 238 RAIN e-mail me about opening your store. I am in the same position you are. I am working on it. stockscrenr@hotmail.com.
  • cita said on July 18, 2010
    hi! i was just reading every one letters. i also plan on opening a small Filipino grocery w/ carry out here in WISCONSIN by nxt year do u have any advice pls. or readers share your plan. i totally forgot my email add farnan66@yahoo.com
  • Pete said on July 23, 2010
    Question: Can anybody inform me on how the $$ transactions work with the distributor. Do I buy the food outright or pay first and receive credit if items do not sell? Would appreciate any input. Thank you, Pete
  • JAY said on July 27, 2010
    IN REFERENCE TO THE INSURANCE I CAN HELP ANYONE WHO NEEDS IT. I WANT TO OPEN A SMALL GROCERY STORE BUT HAVE A LOT OF QUESTIONS. THE ONLY THINK I HAVE FULL KNOWLEDGE OF IS THE INSURANCE
  • Reich said on August 6, 2010
    Hi! Me and my husband plan to put up a mini grocery store business in front of a public market. Can you pls give us info on all the basic things we need to start the business..including how will be the manning of the business and right pricing and how we would negotiate w/ those distributors and manufacturers of the products we will sell. Thank You!
  • Mike F said on August 6, 2010
    First get a business plan started. The most frustrating and difficult section of the plan are the financial. I have been working on mine for about 2 months now. How can you predict the annual sales of a small grocery store for the first month- year? I had to turn it over to my accountant. I am trying to start a bulk price foods store in WI.

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