How to Start a
Retail Wine Business
Many
people dream of turning their passions and hobbies into a business, allowing
them to do what they love while making a living. For wine lovers, a retail wine
store can be a great way to share knowledge of good wines with others, and to
make money to pay the bills. Just like any type of new business, starting a
wine store can be challenging, but for those willing to put in the effort, it
can provide endless rewards, both financial and personal.
1. Research the liquor
license process in your state. Before you can sell your first bottle of wine,
you'll need to obtain a liquor license, and every state has different
requirements. This can often be a lengthy process, requiring public notices to
be posted and hearings to be held. Expect to pay between several hundred and
several thousand dollars if your license is approved. A list of State Liquor
Boards can be found in the Resources section of this article.
2. Find a location. Look
for a building that will accommodate the amount of wine you plan to sell, as
well as any special events you'd like to hold in your store. Check the zoning
of the building before signing a lease to ensure a wine business can be
operated in the area. Pay attention to foot traffic and parking availability,
and make sure to choose an area with low competition and high demand for the
types of wines you'd like to sell. Generally, you'll need to secure a store
location before you apply for your liquor license. To protect yourself in the
case your license is not approved, look for a lease offer that will allow you
to cancel if the license is denied.
3. Purchase stock. You
may want to sell local wines or varieties from across the world. Visit wineries
and vineyards to select brands you think will sell. Pay attention to price
levels and types of wines, ensuring you select bottles that will work well with
your customer base.
4. Hire employees. Look
for people who can work well with your customer base. If you plan to sell
expensive wines, you'll need knowledgeable employees who can discuss the finer
qualities of different types. Take the time now to train your employees on
service, products, and the systems you'd like to use to organize your business.
5. Set up your store and
open for business. Choose the furnishings, wine racks, and designs that meet
your budget. You can always upgrade later after sales pick up. Wine stores lend
themselves well to easy and fun marketing events. Host tasting parties, or wine
classes. Make these events free to draw in the crowds, and you'll soon have a
large enough customer base to support your store.
Article
by: Maria
Working
happily with National Merchant Services
Happy
Processing!!!
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