A large array of spices and seasonings can be found in a typical Indian grocery store.
Indian food is known for its blends of spices and seasonings, but the ingredients needed to make a typical Indian meal can sometimes be hard to find in traditional grocery stores. Operating an Indian grocery store can be profitable if you research the demographics, follow a business plan, and have the ability to import many ingredients.
Instructions
1. Research your business. Start by familiarizing yourself with the food products you would sell. Decide if your store will specialize in groceries from any particular region of India or even include products from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and other nearby areas. (See References 1) This is especially crucial if your store will open in an area with a substantial South Asian demographic, so do census research to find where this population lives and shops. Use the United States Census Bureau website to check statistics in a selected area. (See References 3)
2. Write a detailed business plan that will include a trade name, estimated startup costs, company outlook, and relevant market research. Seek professional services if you are considering submitting your business plan for financing.
3. Consult with a real-estate agent to secure a location for your grocery. Search for retail shops in high traffic areas on a busy street. Before choosing a spot, conduct research as to whether that area is saturated with a sizeable Indian population. Consider the amount of retail space and parking space needed, and zoning issues that need to be addressed.
4. Register your business name as a legal entity. Obtain federal and state tax identification numbers from the IRS and appropriate state agencies. Apply for a business license as required by local authorities. Under the law, a grocery store may be required to apply for a food permit with the state or local Department of Health. Contact the zoning department with questions about location compliance.
5. Decide if you will import or buy your products domestically. Consider the amount of time importing will takes, and ask distributors or suppliers about product quality, customer service, delivery time, and prices. If you will be selling perishable food, refrigeration equipment will be needed. Consider leasing rather than buying expensive equipment. Order enough products and supplies for about three months. During that time, keep careful inventory to see which products to keep and which to drop.
6. Market your business by using local magazines, newspapers and publications (both print and online) to alert consumers of your new business. Register your business with online directories of Indian groceries. Design a business sign that will be bright and catchy. Create a website that includes all products and services and tools for online ordering, if you desire to go this route.
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