Here Today, Gone Tomorrow: Urban Pop-Up Shops

“We always knew that we were going to the permanent location, so it was a great segue to the permanent location,” says Jaya Kahlon, the owner of Sauvage. “Definitely, a pop up allows you to get to know the customer, before making a big investment in a permanent store.”

[pullquote]“A pop up allows you to get to know the customer, before making a big investment in a permanent store.”[/pullquote]

Of course, there are disadvantages to owning a business that seemingly requires less commitment than a permanent store.

“A permanent store gives you a place for the customers to come back and really cultivate your customer’s needs and cultivate the whole concept,” says Kahlon. “So when we moved to the permanent store, we were able to decorate the place to reflect our brand. We were really able to put our stamp on everything in a way that we weren’t able to do with a pop-up.”

Moreover, many landlords prefer long-term rentals over short-term rentals.

“Short-term rentals are not ideal,” says Stephenson. “If the space is going to be empty anyway, it’s better to have something than nothing. It’s a nice way to fill it up and wait for the next tenant…it’s all very positive for your actual space, for renting out in the future.”

So, what are you waiting for?

Do you have an exciting business idea, but are not sure how it would work out in the consumer market? Maybe it’s your turn to join the pop-up retail trend. Keep in mind, though, that short-term business commitment isn’t necessarily easier than a permanent business set up.

“It’s really stressful, but you will get that instant exposure,” says Faustino.

And if you’re looking for an exciting, limited-edition consumer experience, find out where the next pop-ups are popping up in your area.

“It’s happening almost every week,” says Faustino. “Even here [on this street]…there are so many already.”

Tips on getting started with your own pop-up business

Image courtesy of Loozrboy via Flickr

Location
Get to know the neighbourhood. What is the demographic? A baby boutique certainly won’t do well in an area full of university students.

It helps to look at other shops in the area, or noting what type events are held in the neighbourhood. Who are they geared toward? What would these people need to purchase? Moreover, what would they want to purchase? What is an average income in the area? These things all come into a factor when picking a location.