September 2008

What solutions have you tried to compensate for increasing cost of doing buisness? (ex. rent, gas, shipping)

How do you attract and keep new dealers?

Trapezoid located in Wilton Manors, FL recently announced that for the months of September and October new vendors will receive $25.00 of on their last 2 months when becoming a vendor under a six (6) month contract/lease.
Patrick, Trapezoid Antique Mall, Wilton Manors, FL, 954-568-5841

How do you attract and keep new dealers?

A. Most of my antique merchants have rented from me between 6 and 8 years. They have told me the reason they stay is because they make money. I do a lot of advertising which includes up to ten newspapers, 1000 flyers monthly, video, and internet. Every year I plan two to six month advertising campaigns and try to have four open houses a year. I give away hundreds of dollars in door prizes, write newspaper articles on antiques, send news blitzes to 1200 people, and donate time and money to charity, anything to keep the name, Cherry Hill Antiques in customer's minds. I know that my antique business depends on my antique merchants to bring in a larger variety of products, styles and prices which means I can offer a larger variety than I could offer by myself. I always try to treat them the way I want to be treated, with respect. I listen to their ideas and many, many times ask them for their thoughts on all aspects of the business. Their opinions are important to me. We also have a Christmas party every year to get everyone together and to thank the antique merchants for all their hard work.
I believe the biggest reason antique merchants stay so long at Cherry Hill Antiques is they are business people. They are here to make money, not just a hobby. They will help me or anyone anyway needed to insure the success of the entire store, which also means success for them. Success of a store depends on the quality of its renters. Last but not least I have M&Ms for the antique merchants. They are the official candy for the store and are always on hand.
Marc Washicheck, Cherry Hill Antiques, Arcadia, FL, 863-993-2344, www.CherryHillAntiques.com

Shop Talk - Lets Share Ideas!

We are introducing a new column to the Antique Shoppe Newspaper called "Shop Talk". It will be a way for shop and mall owners to exchange and share ideas. Each month we will present a new question for you to respond to by email or phone in order to share with others in the industry.
If you have a question or wish to share a thought, call or email us today at: antshoppefl@aol.com Phone:352-475-1679 or fax 352-475-5326