Moving That Store: Do’s and Don’ts

Bob Maggio of Mojo’s Music spent two months moving from a building he rented to one he bought. Asked to reflect after the dust settled, here are some of his post-move thoughts:

Don’t try to subcontract it all yourself. “Try to have one company oversee the entire operation.”

Do your homework. Talk to as many inspectors as possible, and talk to other retailers about their experiences. Also thoroughly vet any contractors.

Don’t throw that old anything away – instead of some of the old displays and knickknacks going in the trash, Maggio was able to sell a lot of them to an antique dealer.

Do look at the city inspectors as partners and not foes. “When I was upfront with them about everything I needed, they were very helpful.”

Don’t get yourself in a situation where you’re tearing out something you put in because it’s not Americans with Disability Act (ADA) approved. That counter, that bathroom door – everything needs to be compliant. Make sure you’re aware of all the rules.

Do consider unique options in keeping the cost down – like bartering a few instruments to a certain guitar-playing carpenter.

Don’t skimp on interior design. For example, that cheap light fixture that fizzles out quickly will cause more headaches and end up costing more than getting a light that is dependable.

Do take the opportunity to re-evaluate your product mix, and take advantage of the move to reinvent or at least refine your operation. Then hit that reset button.