As a business investment, it represents a solid return, but you have to consider a variety of options. Buying into a franchise can make the process easier, but you value your independence. Owning a convenience store makes better economic sense in the long run, and it keeps profits in your pocket where they belong. If you’re ready to break new ground with convenience store construction, these five steps are solid building blocks to success.
1. Partner With a Proven Contractor
Commercial builders handle all types of projects, but convenience store contractors bring specialized construction capabilities to your job. You want a builder with a solid reputation, but always ask for references, and take a look at the company’s c-store portfolio. A reputable firm readily shares its experience as well as details about insurance and bonding capacities. A successful commercial contractor approaches big jobs with comprehensive management strategies that cover your project from pre-planning to job closeout.
2. Select the Right Site
There’s more to determining the best convenience store location than counting the number of cars zooming by. Your site should be easily accessible from surrounding streets, so intersections are usually a good choice. The exceptions are crossroads that handle heavy traffic because drivers aren’t as likely to exit out of packed lanes. Frontage roads along major highways provide a steady stream of business, but a corner store adjacent to large neighborhoods offers convenience to an established market. Your contractor is a good source of information about the pros and cons of potential c-store sites in your area.
3. Focus With Feasibility Studies
As good as a site selection might look, a feasibility study gives you an in-depth analysis of important factors that can affect sales. This pre-planning strategy can examine traffic patterns and identify surrounding demographics. It helps you determine the best balance between interior square footage and exterior parking. An established c-store contractor fine-tunes his feasibility study to focus on all job details and variables before you break ground including projected building costs and construction time frames.
4. Design Success Inside and Out
You want first-time customers to become regulars, and smart c-store layouts provide an atmosphere that encourages repeat business. The best convenience store contractors offer design services extending from driveways to bathrooms. Your store needs attractive, visible signage and ample parking. Interior floor plans should facilitate foot traffic and accommodate customer-friendly display and POS space. A well-designed convenience store attracts steady business, and it keeps employees happy too.
5. Navigate the Paper Chase
Well-developed business plans help secure funding for your convenience store project, but be prepared to deal with local, state and federal agencies. Most c-stores are also fueling stations, and gas pump installations and operations require adherence to environmental regulations. All construction must be up to current building codes, and food and beverage sales depend on proper licensing. An experienced convenience store contractor can advise you and help navigate a variety of permit and license requirements.
Building your own c-store is a big project with enormous potential for payoff on your investment, so you want a commercial contractor who understands this specialized field. Stovall Construction offers more than 40 years of proven experience in convenience store construction, and we’re here to guide you through the process. Our comprehensive services cover it all from detailed pre-planning through final occupancy. Contact us today, and let us be your partner in building your c-store success.