Grocery stores are part and parcel of the society. It is coming from a traditional trajectory which was also known as “mandi” (a big marketplace) in the previous times where several people used to gather to buy and take back home. On the other hand, now there are numerous stores in your locality or just a few steps away which help you run your house smoothly.
Having said that, because we have so many grocery stores around us, is it easy to run a grocery store? Can anyone amongst us execute the idea of running a grocery store as a part of our side hustle? Let’s find out!
Let’s Dive deep into understanding the factors involved in running a simple Grocery shop, and then maybe you can give a thought if you wish to establish one!
1. Do your homework tightly
Starting any kind of business requires a common base and pillar. Such as – capital, manpower, significant geographical location, and so on. Therefore, one must make a blueprint for the execution that includes aspects of establishment, growth, formative years plan, and expansion. This plan is subjective according to the vision and goal.
2. Location
This parameter plays a vital role in running a grocery store. Factors such as understanding the demographics of an area, people’s mindset, and the needs of the hour can be game changers. An understanding of geographical location can help for the growth of the store. For example: Starting a grocery store in an area that has ample of it already may not be in the best interest. Rather, one needs to do a study and find out which area is best suited
3. Legal Proceedings
A serious business is never for a faint heart. Therefore, running a grocery store will call for some licenses and permits which will go a long way. Essential licenses and permits may vary by state but usually include:
1. Business Registration (sole proprietorship, partnership, etc.)
2. Trade License
3. Registration under the Shops and Establishment Act of 1953
4. FSSAI License (for selling food products)
5. Tax-related registrations (TAN, GST number, etc.)
Once you have these permits in place, your grocery store can get started. To find out the specific requirements for your location, contact your local chamber of commerce or city hall.
4. Train yourself so you can train your employees
Manpower plays a huge role in accelerating the growth of a grocery shop. To win the hearts of your employees as someone from the authority, you must consider training yourself. This will finally give a big number tally of employment for your store and bring the will to work through workers. Training the right way and understanding the intricacies of the same could increase the footfall of buyers.
5. Show your products cheap
This is where the psyche comes into play. We all know the great discussions about inflation and ‘Acche Din’, and here if you could turn the discussion around and make your buyers feel that this specific product is the need of the hour – IT’S SOLD! Showing the products cheap and making the buyer feel that they have the power to buy, will also bring them back to you.
6. Word Of Mouth
Yes, we live in the 21st century where the world is filled with ad agencies but nothing beats the impact of word of mouth. Think about it. If your best friend or someone from your family comes to you and tells you – “hey, this shop is dope. They gave me all the things I wanted with all the patience and with the best of rates,” wouldn’t you want to go there and experience the same? As compared to an advertisement or a sponsored ad you saw online. When buyers feel welcomed and find a kind staff it’s tough for them to forget your store
7. Advertisement Still Helps
Yes, we live in the 21st century and ads are a different ball game altogether. To influence minds, to attract footfall, and to become a brand, advertisements help. To advertise your grocery store, small steps such as showcasing items, building a huge space, great lighting, and a suitable atmosphere are the basics. Followed by massive banners, online presence, networking, and so on.
8. Water the branches
Growth and expansion come underlined to business. As a result, to grow one must look forward to expanding the business. by building several other branches in the same or different locality selling the same or different items.
