Hi everyone:

I am new to the forum, and have read some of your previous threads with great interest (and laughter).

Anyway, I currently run a Resi A/V integration firm mostly doing high end theatres and Crestron control systems. We have an office only, and most of our sales are through local architects and contractors. Even though we have our share of mass merchants in the market(i.e. Best Buy and Circuit City), I still feel that we may be missing some business from the "disenfranchised Best Buy customer."

Can any of you give your input on opening a shop, and if I'm missing out on business that I should be reaching for our type of higher end systems? Or am I just asking to work more hours (as if 80-100 a week weren't enough)?

Thanks in advance,

S-Bend

Stay away! While there may be benefits to having some semi-formal demo space, you will find that in retail you will spend more time educating misinformed tire-kickers than you will be selling jobs. By maintaining a more appointment only availability you instantly filter out those who really aren't serious about finding a solution. In general you want to be selling the solution, and your capabilities and experience in solving problems. I would argue that the money it would take to man a small storefront and answer questions could be much better spent on some carefully directed marketing and presentation materials.

Just my 2 cents.

Mark Seaton