Starting Your School Store:
DOs and DON'Ts for School Stores
Running a school store can be a great way to raise funds for school events. They can perform a useful service for the school. They can even help students explore and learn classroom concepts in an interactive environment. Plus, they can be a lot of fun!
Not sure how to accomplish all of that? Whether you only want to raise some extra money for playground equipment or you're shooting for the moon, there are a few basics to keep in mind. We've assembled some general DOs and DON'Ts for folks looking to start and run their own school store.
The DOs:
- Do treat your school like a real business—take inventory, give receipts, and know your customer.
- Do involve your students! They'll bring excitement and energy to your store and you will give them a chance to get some great experience. Plus, who knows more about what students want than a classmate.
- Do pay attention to the bottom line—adding a small mark-up to the price will make your school store profitable. And because Geddes products are priced to sell, you'll still be able to offer your students great school supplies at affordable prices.
- Do offer the basic supplies your students need, then spice it up with some fun items too! Along with our school specialty of exclusive novelty pens, pencils, and other school supplies, we offer all of the traditional school supplies everyone's familiar with.
- Do call Geddes with questions! We're here to help you make your store as successful as possible. You can reach us toll-free at 1 (888) 431-1722.
The DON'Ts
- Don't get too caught up in the business and forget to have FUN.
- Don't forget to get input from your students workers on decisions you make about your store—they are your target market.
- Don't overlook the obvious—pricing stickers, signage, advertising, etc! Your store will run much more efficiently if everything is clearly labeled with its price.
- Don't make purchasing decisions without consulting your teachers—kids are buying supplies for their classes, so they are the best way to know what your store should offer.
- Don't throw your Geddes catalog away! It will be a great resource to you in running your store and, along with our Quick Shopper page, can speed you through your shopping at raymondgeddes.com.
Next: What's Great About School Stores
Back: Taking the First Step
Home: Return to the School Store Academy
