Looking for a Location; Don’t Overlook College Towns

Location is everything when you start a dollar store.  If you fail to choose the right location, you will find yourself fighting an uphill battle which can turn out to be disastrous for your business.  When it comes to choosing a location, it is a good idea to avoid overlooking college towns.

Everyone knows most college students do not have all that much money to spare, especially if they are not holding down a job while keeping up with their classes.  Since students will be on a tight budget, they will shop at your dollar store if you provide them with the products they are seeking.

Be sure you advertise your business effectively whenever you start a dollar store.  Otherwise, no one will know you are around.  With all of the different advertising methods you can use, some of the most inexpensive may be the most effective.  Try passing out flyers to the students walking around campus.

College students nowadays frequently spend a lot of time on the internet.  Therefore, joining a few social media networks is a good way to reach out to them.  You can get them to become fans or followers of your business and help to spread the word to their friends.

When you start a dollar store, you will need to ensure you have the right products for your target market.  College students will obviously need plenty of school supplies.  Make sure to keep the shelves fully stocked with items such as pens, paper, and notebooks.

College students love to eat while studying or hanging out with their friends.  Your dollar store should have a department devoted solely to snacks.  Also, complementary items like disposable knives and spoons should also be available for purchase.

After going away to college, many students sign up to stay in their first apartment.  When they do this, they will undoubtedly need cleaning supplies for them.  Also, they may want their new dwelling to look good, so decorative items like curtains, lamps, and bed covers will be useful.

If you start a dollar store in a college town, then you can expect many of your customers to come in for party supplies.  It is a good idea to have supplies in their school colors to help them celebrate.  This includes items such as paper plates, napkins, cups, etc.

One of the main problems college students have in the beginning is transportation.  Since they may have a difficult time getting across town to come to your business, it is best that it be as close to the campus as possible.