The Toy Shop Thread!

[ToyWorldNW]

I've noticed there are a few of us on here who are involved with toys in one way or another, whether via a B&M shop or online, so thought I'd start off a thread for us to exchange ideas, feedback on products (good/bad) and also a place to bemoan how bad things are for us (for 10 months of the year) and rave about how amazing they are (for the 8 weeks or so to Christmas!).

For me, I'm based in the North West and have only been open for a couple of months, although prior to that I was trading via the outdoor markets.

My biggest gripe at the moment is with our landlords, the local council, and their lack of enthusiasm when it comes to increasing footfall to the market/shopping centre where we are based. But we've taken a proactive approach to this, have joined forces with other traders in the same boat and have manage to rattle a few cages with some well worded letters to senior executives and the local press.

Other than that, I'm enjoying a small uplift during the summer holidays, and have just started Christmas preparations with the arrival of our Xmas catalogue!

I'm aware of a couple of us, however how many others are there on here in the toy game?

 

[Stuart Bailey]

rather than complain about the council and other third parties why don't you set up your own local trade association for your street or location. Then consider what marketing initiatives you can put together.

Also look at what BID projects do in particular look at Worcester BID and consider whether you should start up a BID for your town or location.

Rather than be negative be proactive with your fellow traders.

Stuart Bailey of Thomas Guise Solicitors.