Specialty Retail

Running a cart or kiosk is tremendous work, so we cover everything from retail theft to shopper demographics. We also cover the latest franchises and turnkeys, plus tips on money and inventory management. Finding Supplies, Suppliers and Locations

• Running a Cart or Kiosk What Sells? by Starr Cumming Cellphone covers or sunglasses? Jewelry or hats? Finding a specialty retail product to sell is complicated by a number of factors. Here’s what to weigh carefully before you find a winner. You may already have an existing cart or kiosk or maybe you are thinking of opening one. There are many factors that help make a successful cart or kiosk business. You will need a solid business plan, professional employees, and outstanding visuals. But even if you have all of these steps covered the bottom line is that you won’t get far without a good product or product mix that will sell. The cart and kiosk programs in malls was originally developed to have vendors sell unique items on carts—ones that could not be found in the local stores. Over the years specialty retail programs have evolved. In malls today it is all but guaranteed specialty leasing programs will have operators selling cellular service and accessories, sunglasses, and handbags. When looking for a product to sell, try and find one that is brand new to the market or unique to a mall.