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
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