I recently defected from a traditional brick and mortar pro shop, go my own way, and pursue an additional career outside of retail bowling products. I did, however, still enjoy providing pro shop services to those in our bowling community and (then) wanted to continue at a smaller scale.
Operating as a traditional brick and mortar shop was never an option, as the rental market in our area is approximately $2.50-$3.00 per square foot, while there is about one bowling center per 300,000 people in this market. The options for me to run a traditional brick and mortar shop were either expensive or unavailable. I then came with the idea to try the business out of my garage, as individuals in other industries frequently do. I was thinking like how an independent Avon Skin Care sales rep would work.
After first working diligently to obtain various tax licenses and city permits, I approached a number of distributors to receive services and was turned away, despite the fact there are other individuals operating in their homes, with active distributor accounts. At first, this frustrated me dearly, but later realized that the outcomes have been favorable to me.
Despite my inability to secure a distributor account and unable to start operating my business, not having to commit to large amounts of stock has been advantageous to me. Now, "customers" bring balls to me from online, and have been savvy enough to purchase their own accessories, or "buy" some from my personal stash. The result is minimal overhead, while I have fun providing high quality services to people from near and far. Additionally, there is zero pressure for me to push product, especially during the slow months and the decline in league activity in the industry.
I'm lucky, though. I do not have to rely on bowling retail sales for my livelihood.
In essence, my advice to those who are defecting, or have been forced out, of the traditional brick and mortar business model is, "Your professionalism, craftsmanship, and people skills will speak for itself."
If your craftsmanship lacks value, while having less than ideal people skills, it doesn't matter if you are in a traditional brick and mortar shop or drilling out of your own basement. People, especially bowlers, will find other ways to find service and products that fit their needs.
Happy holidays and happy new year to all!
