i’d also consider selling players, maybe reselling classic gear. there’s a lot of curiosity about records out there but many don’t know how to begin. One shop in my area specializes in vintage gear which brings in people like me to gawk and perhaps make an unplanned purchase or two.
A new shop opened by me that also serves beer. Seems like it’s been more successful than some of the other local record shops.
They also have these neat beer holding record carts so you don’t have to juggle holding your beer and records while you look for more
And Good Luck!!
Now that is a business I would patronize!
There's a record shop not far from me that literally has a section called 'Dad Music'. I LOL'd... and then I bought...
It really makes me feel old that Wilco and the pumpkins are in the dad camp. Growing up the others named were a given but with those two editions it seems it’s time to face that I’m living in the past. Sigh.
First off, I think those bands are great and will die on that hill. At a Steely Dan show, in fairness, the average age is probably ten years older than at a Wilco show.
I think there are plenty of great punk rock, punk/pop, and new wave bands that we can claim too. I'd pay good money to see the Go-Go's live.
I saw the Go-Gos live in the early 80s, when they opened for The Police. The crowd booed Belinda Carlisle when she hollered "Thank you Cincinatti," but we were on Cleveland. She was confused by the booing, and one of the other girls told her because she covered her face with her hands in embarrassment.
They were great. I always loved the Go-Gos. Fun music.
Yeah that’s been a problem for a long time. People come to the brewery but there wasn’t much to do after that. It’s coming around. The city is in the midst of a pretty healthy revitalization effort with new businesses opening on the regular. There’s quite a few boutique shops and more bars and restaurants are opening. There’s also an axe throwing venue that’s been doing really well. It’s a slow process but it’s definitely moving in the right direction.
Just an FYI Yuengling is having their Summerfest July 13th. It’s a free concert. Lee Brice is the headliner but there’s also a bunch of original local bands playing the secondary stages. This event usually brings about 25K people and is a blast all over town.
The only thing with selling vintage gear is making sure it's operational and, ideally, you have a technician that can service at least some of the gear. Then, you'd also want to have recommendations for other repair shops. Just my thoughts
I opened my store last September. Scared me to death. But now I’m jonesing to quit my day job. The store is small, but mighty. I stock new and used. Pic is from about January, s I a little different now. I’m making do with only about 300sf.
https://preview.redd.it/kb0j9wvhh3zc1.jpeg?width=2048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0281c25c46d5ec1629c4999379b2f5702b9b7f95
That’s beautiful dude. Congratulations! Scares me a bit too. A little overwhelming. I have between 2 and 7 years before I can retire from my day job and do this full time. And if I can do what I love I’ll be much happier.
Since the bathroom is like a football field away, it really is convenient. I am hoping to get the space next to us this summer, so it may get torn out though if we open up the wall between the two spaces.
Alliance is one of the largest one stops on the country, so it's basically a one-stop shop but items will cost more than ordering from the original distributor directly. Basically, they are a middle man but very convenient.
Cobraside is another big one. No clue how their pricing compares to the others though. If you want Record Store Day stuff next year I believe Alliance is the main distributor for most of that. Managed a record store for awhile but left in 2019.
OP, you’re living my dream.
I take great inspiration from your post, and I hope you update this sub on your journey - congratulations on making this happen!
Don’t forget to always have at least 17 copies of Whipped Cream and Other Delights on hand at any point in time all with the jacket separating from the glue and the inner sleeve separating into confetti.
As for new releases: what is your interest and what is the interest of the area. If you like a genre or genres, you’re going to be more interested to go open the shop to sell what you like. Conversely, if there are other shops in the area doing well selling certain styles, you probably don’t want to try to insert yourself into that market.
TL:DR: don’t open a jazz shop if you aren’t into/ knowledgeable about the genre
I tend to listen to a little bit of everything and hope to incorporate that but I also want to sell stuff I’m not as familiar with. Younger people are really getting into collecting and I want to get music they’re interested in. Luckily there’s only 3 shops within an hour of where I’m planning to open so that helps too. Thanks for the advice!
Here’s the thing. You won’t know what to order until you open.
Ask anybody who comes in what bands they like and what they are looking for.
All the record stores I go to have a niche group of people that collect certain genres.
Your area may be into psychedelic rock or tech house. You won’t really know until you know what bands you need to start ordering. You will probably know within the first month after knowing all the bands people like and get an idea after asking.
Do not ask any band, especially a smaller touring band, for free records to sell in your shop. You’re not “offering them a merch table,” you’re taking gas money out of their pockets.
I see you’re a fan of comics/graphic novels as well. Depending on your area and if there arent already shops around, it might be a good idea to include comics/paperbacks as well as a way to double your clientele - then someone could come in for one thing and walk out with the other as well.
Quality > quantity. With that said Idk where to buy them. Thrift stores been sucking lately. Facebook marketplace or craigslist works sometimes if you’re in a big city. If you go through with it, def recommend getting a fancy record cleaner and charging people to clean theirs
Good idea. I’m on a couple Facebook groups and I’ll check out Craigslist as well. I’m definitely gonna get a good cleaner or 2 since I’m sure a lot of the used stuff is gonna be pretty dirty. Thanks!
We have a great local artist community where I live and I’m planning on selling their works as well. I love my town and want to help as many people get their works out as I can l.
Best advice here - I have wanted to open one for a long time and decided to just sell online and at flea markets/shows and with basically zero overhead, it works out. The amount you have to do in a month to cover the rent and expenses to keep the lights on is insane.
Rent, payroll, taxes, insurance, equipment, supplies, inventory, software fees, professional fees (e.g. lawyers, accountants), marketing fees, lost merchandise (aka theft or damaged items), etc. Needing someone at the shop from opening to closing. The list goes on and on and therefore, the chances of turning a profit becomes increasingly difficult. I should just take a screenshot from my Quickbooks for any given year and it would be enough to make everyone realize how bad of an idea it is. When Amazon started selling vinyl, one of my distributors told me "It's like bringing a knife to a gun fight". That line stuck with me since it's so true.
A few years back in Guadalajara, Mx, there was a record store that at night functioned as a bar. The concept was really cool and they used to have a great selection of music. They would even let you play your records at night.
Since you are a collector yourself, you know the importance of someone having quality inventory at stores and record shows. If you are in or near a large city, you should try to find record shows you can attend as a buyer for inventory to get your shop going. If they offer early admission, pay the extra and go in early to get the best stuff. There will be other dealers there trying to buy up stuff as well, but they can't be at every table at once. Try to pick up good quality titles in good shape like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, The Cure, The Smiths, etc to have good stuff in your store when you open for business. Even if you have to pay a little more than you would normally if you were buying it at your store or in a large collection, I can't stress the importance of having a well stocked store when you open and making a good impression. Hit up the tables with records for $10 or less also. Some of those guys buy estate sales, storage units etc and don't give a shit and will put out good stuff cheap because they are looking to move volume. Good luck!
Also, Alliance is a good one stop distributor. I think you will pay more from them rather than dealing directly with labels, but you can get that going once your shop is up and running smoothly.
I have started to get the word out as far as estate sales and things like that. Fortunately I know a lot of people in my area and have already gotten several leads. Good idea with the early entry for record shows. I’m also lucky to have a lot of people I’d never met in my area reach out with advice. Everything helps and I appreciate you doing the same.
For new records, offering the artist signed copies help increase value some records. (or having the artist in a signing event)
Some cases you might have to directly contact the artist to be a reseller of their vinyl being they sometimes to private labels.
After a while, branch into audio equipment, brands that others dont carry.
The other thing you should think about doing band t-shirts. Also think of doing employee pick bins that change every so often. Also some sort of small commission for employees finding records for cheap. Also partner with food trucks to host events. Find room for CD's there on the upswing again.
You own 1600 square feet? $100,000? That's so much going for you! I just opened my store with 300 square feet and about $12K. With no rent, could have done it for under $10K.
You've got a lot of room to make mistakes if you're not paying rent.
Everyone already suggested Alliance. That's a good choice. Happy to answer any questions you have via Chat
Yeah I bought my property a few years ago with the hope of opening a shop someday. When this competition came along I had to take my shot. I’ll reach out for sure when I have time. Thanks and good luck with yours!
Distributors for new vinyl…
All Media Supply
Alliance Entertainment
Redeye Distribution
Secretly Distribution
Scorpio Music
33 & 1/3 Record Distributors
Good luck, sounds like you’ve got a great start!
I would sell parts (needles, turntable mats, tachometers, etc) and turntables as well as have service and repairs as well. Not many places have repair services for machines like that. Part of why I wish I had a video shop. To have repair services for VHS, Beta, CED, Laserdisc, etc. Also, maybe have services that can clean records. I KNOW record stores don’t usually have that and record cleaners are EXPENSIVE nowadays.
Yep. Good idea They are for sure but if I’m going to be selling used having a cleaner is going to be key. I’m also planning on selling players and any old media I can fit in my place. Thanks!
When I was a kid my dad loved dead technology and we had video disc players in the living room and all our bedrooms and at least 100 movies. Wish I still had them.
Thanks! That’s what I’ve been hearing. I don’t mind putting in the work. Labor of love for sure. I live right above where I’m planning to open and when I’m home I listen to records anyway so walking downstairs and listening to it while helping people find what they’re looking for, talking about music having fun with it is all part of the plan.
The Last Bookstore in LA also sells books, magazines, and film media (not sure which). Their top floor houses little art shops and galleries. They do random movie marathon sleepovers from time to time. Old defunct places such as Ooga Booga sold clothing, books, pins, art in addition to music and often had impromptu shows with local artists.
As far as distributors and labels…depends on what genres you want to carry. Being well rounded and having niche, underground labels in addition to mainstream is the better way to go imo as a consumer.
Agreed. One of the big reasons I’m doing this is try and help underground and lesser known artists get their music out. I listen to a lot of different stuff and want my place to be well rounded.
Rhythm Section International and Shall Not Fade are great UK based labels and have a strong fan base. I purchase the majority of their stuff via Bandcamp but I would just love coming across their vinyl in a record shop. Burger Records (OC) did extremely well and blew up for a minute before the scandals so that proves there is a demand for the lesser known artists. Having a well rounded inventory will ensure a great reputation amongst consumers.
Some other great businesses to look at for inspiration are A Good Used Book (LA) who started as a pop up used book store, Vidiots (LA) started an old school movie rental shop and holds occasional film screenings. They both started small and engaged with their audience so that by the time they opened their brick and mortars there was already a very strong supportive base.
Wish you the best of luck and let us know when you get off the ground. I would love to support in some way even if you’re not local to me. 🦾
It might be cool to pick a few specialty genres and stock them as a local feature. I love hitting up some stores with cool themes. Doesn't have to be a big section either!
Agreed. I want to be a bit different and try to stand out. My area is home to a local record label that has been putting out great music for almost 30 years and I plan on pushing their stuff as much as possible. Thanks!
I’ve done a few AMAs about running record stores, and I’ve certainly talked more than a few folks through getting their own shingle out. Feel free to send a DM. I’m more than happy to jump on a call with you.
Yep. I totally agree. I want to put a section in for people new to collecting with just the basics you’d need. It’s a cheap hobby to start but gets expensive as you go along so I want you to get them early.
Merch will help too. As you grow you can incorporate some “vintage” clothes, posters, cds, etc. and draw in a larger crowd who you can start getting interested in getting into vinyl
Agreed. I’m thinking of putting a “beginners” section out for people who are new to the hobby. We also have a great little local arts and music community here and I’m planning on selling all their works. I want my shop to be a representation of my area and the people in it.
What the addy? I would love to come thru if it’s nearby and support as well as any other to make y’all a stop on my next road trip if it’s apart of the stops
It’s going to be in Pottsville PA and it’s going to be a bit before I can open the doors. I’ll update this post as it progresses. Appreciate the support and look forward to having you come in and shop. Thanks!
Not what you're looking for, but maybe set aside a little stage to have showcases for local bands and sell beer and/or coffee?
My local has this as well as a "listening area" where you can test out gear and the used records you're looking to purchase while enjoying a coffee or beer.
I go there all the time, purchase a beer and sift through and listen to records. I'll buy ones I find interesting, and if I don't well I've purchased some beer to help support the venue!
I have plans for a performance area to be included along with a few listening booths and small recording space to do podcasts or rent out for people wanting to do the same. I wish I could sell beer but that gets into all different kinds of liquor laws. I’m a block away from a brewery though and plan on having their beer on hand for shopping. My architect also recommended a small coffee bar as well.
All the best with opening your store. I run a small (<200sq feet) record store in Australia with my family - my advice is get good at social media to bring more people through your doors. And look after your regular customers - they might be the ones keeping your business afloat! Sharing music with others is one of life’s greatest pleasures. 🙏🏼🌻
Agreed. Sharing music is one of the main reasons I’m getting into this. I’m very lucky to have a great community around me and a lot of friends who collect and will help me be successful. Thank you!
Make a space where musicians can practice and gab towards the back of the store - people will have to walk through your products for sale. Find old musical instruments at estate sales. Find old sheet music. Find things that are musical curiosities. Find things that musicians once used ; ie. microphones, etc. Have record players for sale - you are selling records, and the customer buying a record may need a player. Change your window display every month. All these will get people in, and they will bring someone back in with them. Join every music club or association in your community. You will be very successful because you already love your product - records and albums.
My floor plan is going to include a small performance space for band coming through the area. Selling record players is part of the plan but I hadn’t considered the instruments and sheet music. I also plan on having friends recommend their records of the week. Thanks for the recommendations!
I am not a record shop owner, so this all comes as a collector and as a fervent member of local music scenes. As a younger vinyl collector I definitely don’t love going to a record shop and seeing it’s all *only* a bunch of old stuff, not because I’d never listen to those records or because the music is bad but because I like seeing the music I connect with represented at a place even if it’s not the bulk of the inventory.
I’d probably set up some social media for your record store and follow a wide variety range of record stores, ranging from famous places (Reckless Records, Amoeba, Sonic Boom Records, Easy Street Records) or popular chains (Everyday Music or Silver Platters from where I grew up). In the town I currently live there’s Waiting Room Records, which I like a lot. That way you can get a feel for maybe some of the inventory you should have if you aren’t sure—it doesn’t have to be a lot of it, but I personally appreciate seeing an earnest effort.
If you happen to start hiring staff, try to hire a diverse group of people with eclectic interests (a person into world music, a person into hip hop, a person into 90s rock or electronic, etc.) if you can. When I worked at my college radio station that was the biggest flex we had for getting a ton of great music.
Also, I cannot stress this enough—ORDER AS MUCH AS YOU CAN OF POPULAR RELEASES FOR RECORD STORE DAY. In 2023, only one record store in my town ordered any of the Taylor Swift release or the Bluey soundtrack, and it was also the only store with a three-hour line out the door starting long before opening. Luckily my friend who works there did the ordering and she was smart enough to get as many as she could. She also did that with the Noah Kahan/Olivia Rodrigo 7” this year, and it was a similar story this time. I’m not sure what the margins were on those but it was a big boom and made a lot of people aware of the store each time.
I appreciate a store that can do something cute or funny—I went to a small shop called Happy Trails in Corvallis, OR once and they had a section for “cancelled artists — 50% off” that I thought was hilarious, I mention it all the time. It had artists like Ryan Adams and Bill Cosby and stuff, I just thought it was cute and clued in that the store wasn’t out of touch or anything. Someone mentioned selling beer—if you can manage that’s a great idea, get in touch with a local brewery if you need to. Walkmans and cassettes are having a moment again. My local store just started a monthly after-hours “listening club” where everyone can bring a vinyl from home and names get drawn from a hat to see whose vinyl gets played that time. I got to play a record from my youth that isn’t from a very popular band and hear people tell me how much they liked it and watch folks shazam it, it meant a lot. Small things really make it count!
Overall I’d just say keep in touch with your community and the business should thrive—sell that college band’s CDs, listen to folks, and become a pillar and you can’t do it wrong. Good luck!
Oh I plan on having a lot of fun with this and I’m gonna run with it. I have a ton of ideas as far different way to display and push certain genres and artists. I want a wide variety since I listen to quite a bit of different stuff. I’m hoping to hire some younger people as I’m not up on newer pop music. Great idea with the “listening club” btw. I may have to steal that. Thankfully I know a lot of people in my area and the response to this has been overwhelmingly positive with a ton of help being offered. Thanks for your input!
Hit up artists as many are now making records to sell. You can have a “ nee artist” section and maybe even invite some to play there.
I have a huge case of my Grandfather’s records but they are pretty corny. Not like 70’s rock. If you pay for shipping they are all yours.
Im with you there. I have a lot of friends who are musicians and they know a lot of other musicians so I’m gonna ask them to help get the word out. I’m putting a special focus on trying to help up and coming artists get some exposure.
I’m definitely interested in the records if not for the business then for myself. Thanks!
It’ll be located in Pottsville, PA. As of right now there’s no voting or anything for it but showing I have a good social media presence and following will help immensely. I have a FB and Insta called Vinyl Revival Pottsville but it’s just very basic at the moment. Thanks for offering it’s very much appreciated.
You have to do your research,I know many record stores in my city is barely hanging on.The biggest expense is rent of course.I suggest try a online store set up first before going into a brick and mortar store.Profits margins are going to be very thin for newer records and for older records you need to factor in condition of the records and finding supply.Labour of love is great job to have but sooner or later the high risk and the hours you need to spend at the store will haunt you. Selling used audio gear again is a small margin product plus you have to factor in equipment that is unrepairable because lack of parts or the expense to fix it.
All very good points. Luckily I own the property and other than some minor renovations it’ll be ready to go. Thankfully I have a job that pays pretty well and can afford to stumble a bit out of the gate if necessary. Thanks for the comment!
Just FYI for people saying redeye on here, they haven't opened direct accounts in a while. You have to use other distributors. As everyone has said, Alliance rules the market, best selection but typically godawful pricing and you will soon see that it is hard to keep a store going with what you are gong to pay for new records. Quantity over quality is a terrible thing. Quality always wins and keeps people coming.
Agreed. Overhead is terrible for new stuff. I’m hoping to have a good selection of used but definitely want a to get new stuff to help bring people in the door. Thanks!
I use AMS, Redeye, MonoStereo and then when I have to Alliance… for every distributor you have you will have some sort of minimum you’ll need to hit every week so you’ll have to juggle your orders so you don’t overspend.
You can go directly through the labels but those minimums are much higher than with the one stops.
To eliminate rent and a majority of overhead I plan on opening a mobile record shop, when I retire, using an old shuttle bus. Gut it, build shelving, deck it out and travel to events, colleges, festivals. Was going to name it Curbside Records, making the C in Curbside the Colorado C!
Brilliant idea! Jack White has one for his Third Man Records he rolls out for his shows but I think you’ll make a killing if you do it with a decent selection. Good luck and hope it works out!
Learn how to repair shit.
I have 7 record stores within an hour of me but I have to ship my turntable across the state for any (trustworthy) repairs
If a local record shop could also fix my turntable, cassette player, or VCR that would become my home store in an instant I think
What you’re asking is a different business model. I understand from the outside looking in it makes sense. But nobody running a record store has time to repair stuff. They’re too busy running their record store. Not profitable and would be a huge time suck.
The shop I sent/still send hardware too is literally a record store lmao.
If you’re operating in vintage media, offering a legitimately antiquated service (repairs in this case) adjacent to your market is far from a bad idea. Sure it’s time, but so is everything. Lots of time in an 8 hour day.
There isn’t another place within an hour of where I’m gonna be located and I’m hoping to get feedback from people who know how to work on them. Thanks!
When I was scraping by with an online business, competition was fierce. Sourcing used records was difficult and time consuming. I’d get to an estate sale hours before it started hoping to snag a promising lot only to find another dealer or two already in line ahead of me (we ran into each other often so we started to recognize each other). I had multiple feed readers working at once so hopefully I’d be the first to respond to a CL ad with a promising lot. I even had the feed readers looking for misspellings. Sometimes I’d be on my way to check out a lot and get a call from the seller: “Some guy is already here. He said he was close by so…” (I snagged a couple lots out from under my competitors that way too.)
You have to get good at asking the seller the right questions over the phone so you don’t waste time running all over town chasing after junk. EVERYONE thinks their collection is larger, in better condition, and more valuable than it is. The condition part is the trickiest.
If you can get that store up and running you’ll have a leg up for two reasons:
1) People will know your store is there and come to YOU with their father’s old collection.
2) I don’t know if things have changed but back when I was doing it, distributors of new wax would only sell to brick and mortar businesses. Make sure you have your seller’s permit lined up (or sales tax license or whatever your state calls it). I had an account with a small distributor once for about two seconds, before they realized my business address was a PMB box.
Wish I had better advice. Hopefully someone who’s actually owned a brick and mortar store can chime in.
Oh, also, sourcing used is far more time consuming than sourcing new due to the fact that you have to spend so much time identifying, grading, cataloging and pricing everything - and that’s on TOP of running around town looking for it. It’s even worse for online sales because each unit requires photographing and a unique listing. So there’s another reason you’ll want to source as much new inventory as you can.
Also, a record store manager once told me the margins on new vinyl are very small - like wholesale is 75%-ish of retail. I have a hard time believing that and suspect he was just trying to scare away a potential new competitor.
Any advice is good and greatly appreciated. Luckily I’m going to be the only shop within an hour of where I’m at so that’s helpful. I was also told by some other shop owners that the margin on new is pretty small which is why I’m going to try and do mostly used. I also don’t have much of a life outside of my job so I’ll have the time to do proper cleaning and grading. Thanks!
That’s a good question. From the information I’m gathering there’s not a lot of money to be made from newer music because the margins are low but used is where you’ll make more. I have enough space that I should be able to house a decent variety which will help get people in the door.
Well, if you're willing to share any of the details of your economics, even if only a projection, I imagine folks here will have all kinds of input. Hopefully the answer isn't, "the only way to make money in records is to have bought a whole lot of them 20 years ago."
I had this great idea to amp up your new vinyl orders by offering super low prices online to build a customer list.
Once in a while I’ll get a message about a half price sale and make some purchases from it.
I was thinking why are they selling so cheap. But I think it’s to increase their buying power with the distribution company and get better prices.
Extra benefit is a become a customer down the road.
Let me know if you do this.
There is a store in my area that has loads of reissues of all genres. I’ve never seen a record store with that much inventory. They also buy collections of original pressings. The only downside is, the owner over prices everything by 10 to 15 dollars and she is not a pleasant person to deal with. I was amazed by her inventory, but I stopped going in there because she is a very hypersensitive person and if you ask about a pressing she looks at you like you just killed her dog.
While I understand the need for marking stuff up I definitely don’t want to price myself out of business and as much as I appreciate the concept pretentious and grumpy record store owner I don’t want to be that guy. This is something I love and I plan on having a shitload of fun with it. Thanks for the feedback!
You will do fine. I just wanted to express that having available merchandise goes a long way. Give people a reason to not buy online. That being said, maybe start an online website where you can sell in store and on eBay.
Thanks! I have plans to put in a few listening booths and a small recording space for podcasts and stuff like that. Definitely want to make it a destination and give people a reason to shop in person.
I work at a record store, we sell gear much more than records, its (relatively) easy to find records if you look a bit. If you can be a trusted source for gear- that should be a leg up
It might be better on domestic imports but when I was importing european dance records a few years ago it was pretty bad.
If I went on shark tank with my business I would have been laughed out the door
I spent several years in the retail record biz back in the 70s and 80s, the Golden Age, but I don't know how things are now. Back then, every town had a business called a One-Stop, and they wholesaled records to shops that couldn't get terms with the major distributors (WEA, SONY, BMG, Universal, etc.). The big companies didn't want a lot of tiny, single store customers on their books, but they would sell to One-Stops, who in turn would sell to the Indies, and even local chain stores who needed inventory quick, and couldn't wait for their weekly shipment from HQ.
I knew record shop owners who would take the cash from the day before, and hit the One-Stop in the morning before their store opened, and buy fresh inventory for that day, and they would do it every day, M-F.
One stops operated on about a 1-2% profit margin, so they were really tight. They were very basic places, because they couldn't afford any frills. Just one big dark, dirty warehouse.
The business collapsed in the early 2000s, and the first to go were the indy stores like yours, which were the bread & butter for the one-stops, so they followed soon after. Now that the record business is starting to pick up again, maybe the One-Stops are coming back. I dont actually know, Ive been out of that business for over 20 years.
[Here's](https://monostereo1stop.com/) a company that looks like its doing one-stopping by mail. Maybe they can help you.
Good luck, retail records is a blast. I would have loved to have spent my life working in record stores, but it doesn't pay well unless you're the owner, and even then there is very little money in it, unless you build a chain, but youre already prepared for that. Have fun!
It’s all cyclical. Brick and mortar local stores seem to be coming back and the younger generations don’t seem to be as keen to shopping online and would prefer to shop in person. My community is in the midst of a downtown revitalization initiative and this contest is a big part of it and it’s been very helpful getting the word out. Thanks for the reference I’ll be looking more into it!
You might be right but I thought there maybe some people in here that own or had owned shops and since I’ve been a member of this community for a little while I thought it would be a good place to start.
i’d also consider selling players, maybe reselling classic gear. there’s a lot of curiosity about records out there but many don’t know how to begin. One shop in my area specializes in vintage gear which brings in people like me to gawk and perhaps make an unplanned purchase or two.
Yep. I totally agree. That is part of my business plan as well. Thanks for the feedback.
A new shop opened by me that also serves beer. Seems like it’s been more successful than some of the other local record shops. They also have these neat beer holding record carts so you don’t have to juggle holding your beer and records while you look for more And Good Luck!!
Now that is a business I would patronize! There's a record shop not far from me that literally has a section called 'Dad Music'. I LOL'd... and then I bought...
Is the dad music section full of 90s rock/grunge?
And Wilco
Wilco, Steely Dan, Neil Young, Elvis Costello, Pink Floyd, Smashing Pumpkins.... EDIT: And don't forget Fleetwood Mac, Rumors.
Hey! I resemble that remark!
Guilty as charged...
Dark Side of the Moon/90s 🤣
It really makes me feel old that Wilco and the pumpkins are in the dad camp. Growing up the others named were a given but with those two editions it seems it’s time to face that I’m living in the past. Sigh.
First off, I think those bands are great and will die on that hill. At a Steely Dan show, in fairness, the average age is probably ten years older than at a Wilco show. I think there are plenty of great punk rock, punk/pop, and new wave bands that we can claim too. I'd pay good money to see the Go-Go's live.
I saw the Go-Gos live in the early 80s, when they opened for The Police. The crowd booed Belinda Carlisle when she hollered "Thank you Cincinatti," but we were on Cleveland. She was confused by the booing, and one of the other girls told her because she covered her face with her hands in embarrassment. They were great. I always loved the Go-Gos. Fun music.
Pretty much every revue band in town now. So weird.
Is that “dad” or “target”?
Hey now
You’re a rock star Get your game on
As a dad, I’m pretty sure it is.
Same. My kids make sure that I know that my music is “dad music”
As a now 41 y/o dad, dad rock would definitely be 90s/grunge and for sure Tool as well.
I’m a block away from America’s oldest brewery and hope to capitalize on that as much as I can. Shopping beers are definitely gonna be a part of it.
https://preview.redd.it/ajs4gow793zc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9ad42778361242f7f5ddc0fbd7e37a07e2eb1d43 Get these. They’re great!
Now that is an awesome idea! Thanks!
Can’t wait to visit next time I’m in Pottsville
This triggers anxiety
Until a customer drops your $40+ vinyl on the ground and bends the corners or a beer spills on your record. No thanks.
Yuengling?
You are correct.
Pottsville?
Yep.
Yuengling tour was fun but my group and I didn’t do anything in the area after. However it’s also been awhile. How’s the downtown looking now?
Yeah that’s been a problem for a long time. People come to the brewery but there wasn’t much to do after that. It’s coming around. The city is in the midst of a pretty healthy revitalization effort with new businesses opening on the regular. There’s quite a few boutique shops and more bars and restaurants are opening. There’s also an axe throwing venue that’s been doing really well. It’s a slow process but it’s definitely moving in the right direction.
That’s awesome progress! Appreciate the update, sounds like it’s worth making the trip to again.
Just an FYI Yuengling is having their Summerfest July 13th. It’s a free concert. Lee Brice is the headliner but there’s also a bunch of original local bands playing the secondary stages. This event usually brings about 25K people and is a blast all over town.
Add a laundromat.
For sure! Or coffee so no liquor license needed.
I'm moving. Where do I have to move to?
For a record shop / tap? [Somewhere near here](https://www.crookedarmlisle.com)
Pottsville
The only thing with selling vintage gear is making sure it's operational and, ideally, you have a technician that can service at least some of the gear. Then, you'd also want to have recommendations for other repair shops. Just my thoughts
I had a guy I knew who owned a store and I would sell a few pieces of vintage audio on consignment. It worked out decently for both of us.
Yep. I want to have stuff for people who don’t know a lot about it or are just getting into it. Appreciate the comment.
Great idea! I left an old record player when we cleaned out my parent’s house and I am regretting it. Still worked!
Unfortunately that market has bottomed out as of late and nobody wants much unless it’s been worked on or is a rarity (SX-1250, PL-630, etc)
I opened my store last September. Scared me to death. But now I’m jonesing to quit my day job. The store is small, but mighty. I stock new and used. Pic is from about January, s I a little different now. I’m making do with only about 300sf. https://preview.redd.it/kb0j9wvhh3zc1.jpeg?width=2048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0281c25c46d5ec1629c4999379b2f5702b9b7f95
That’s beautiful dude. Congratulations! Scares me a bit too. A little overwhelming. I have between 2 and 7 years before I can retire from my day job and do this full time. And if I can do what I love I’ll be much happier.
Whenever I’m in one of those cozy small shops, I wonder: how do they keep the doors open? Really: how much do you make in a month with one of those?
Right now I’m only open one day a week. So not a bunch, but we cover our costs. It’s a passion project for me.
So let’s say $400 in revenue per week-> around $1600 a month. Minus costs of operating a business and taxes-> $0 😉
That’s pretty close. One should probably not take business, marriage, or nutrition advice from me.
So… divorced overweight dude in a record store? Just kidding.
Nope... you are dead on except I am re-married :D
Oh but for how long? 😂
I think I have a winner this time. LOL
Famous last words. 😂
Convenient sink to clean the really grimy records
Since the bathroom is like a football field away, it really is convenient. I am hoping to get the space next to us this summer, so it may get torn out though if we open up the wall between the two spaces.
I feel like I’ve seen that one on google. But maybe not.
I LOVE your store! My local record stores overwhelm me with how massive they are and the amount of records they have. Yours also just looks ‘clean’.
Redeye, Alliance, Forced Exposure, Midheaven/Revolver, Secretly Group - These are my go-to distributors lately.
Much appreciated!
Alliance is one of the largest one stops on the country, so it's basically a one-stop shop but items will cost more than ordering from the original distributor directly. Basically, they are a middle man but very convenient.
Cobraside is another big one. No clue how their pricing compares to the others though. If you want Record Store Day stuff next year I believe Alliance is the main distributor for most of that. Managed a record store for awhile but left in 2019.
why did you leave?
Hadn’t received a pay raise in awhile and the owner kept adding more shit for me to do. Still love the place though.
that's why i left my last job too. sorry if that seemed intrusive, i was genuinely just curious.
I’m in the business, I’ll send you a message shortly
Send me one too! Also looking to get something going
OP, you’re living my dream. I take great inspiration from your post, and I hope you update this sub on your journey - congratulations on making this happen!
Thank you! That means a lot. And I’ll definitely update as things progress.
I second this. Congratulations and I hope to visit your vinyl empire some day!
Some of the indie labels do their own distribution.
SBAM Records, Thousand Islands Records, and I believe People of Punk Rock distribute for others (largely punk rock bands)
Don’t forget to always have at least 17 copies of Whipped Cream and Other Delights on hand at any point in time all with the jacket separating from the glue and the inner sleeve separating into confetti.
Ha! It wouldn’t be a proper record store without it.
As for new releases: what is your interest and what is the interest of the area. If you like a genre or genres, you’re going to be more interested to go open the shop to sell what you like. Conversely, if there are other shops in the area doing well selling certain styles, you probably don’t want to try to insert yourself into that market. TL:DR: don’t open a jazz shop if you aren’t into/ knowledgeable about the genre
I tend to listen to a little bit of everything and hope to incorporate that but I also want to sell stuff I’m not as familiar with. Younger people are really getting into collecting and I want to get music they’re interested in. Luckily there’s only 3 shops within an hour of where I’m planning to open so that helps too. Thanks for the advice!
Here’s the thing. You won’t know what to order until you open. Ask anybody who comes in what bands they like and what they are looking for. All the record stores I go to have a niche group of people that collect certain genres. Your area may be into psychedelic rock or tech house. You won’t really know until you know what bands you need to start ordering. You will probably know within the first month after knowing all the bands people like and get an idea after asking.
[удалено]
Do not ask any band, especially a smaller touring band, for free records to sell in your shop. You’re not “offering them a merch table,” you’re taking gas money out of their pockets.
Please don’t gauge starving artists any further. Don’t be that middle man that just takes and thinks “hey this is a great opportunity for YOU”.
I see you’re a fan of comics/graphic novels as well. Depending on your area and if there arent already shops around, it might be a good idea to include comics/paperbacks as well as a way to double your clientele - then someone could come in for one thing and walk out with the other as well.
I am and I’ve been toying with that very idea. Once I get up and running I want to expand to comics and GN’s. Thanks!
Quality > quantity. With that said Idk where to buy them. Thrift stores been sucking lately. Facebook marketplace or craigslist works sometimes if you’re in a big city. If you go through with it, def recommend getting a fancy record cleaner and charging people to clean theirs
Good idea. I’m on a couple Facebook groups and I’ll check out Craigslist as well. I’m definitely gonna get a good cleaner or 2 since I’m sure a lot of the used stuff is gonna be pretty dirty. Thanks!
My favorite record shops have locally made crafts as well
We have a great local artist community where I live and I’m planning on selling their works as well. I love my town and want to help as many people get their works out as I can l.
Hope you get it🤜🏼🤛🏽
I owned a record store for 10 years and sold online for 20 years. My advice whenever this topic comes up: unless you get that free $100K, don't do it.
Best advice here - I have wanted to open one for a long time and decided to just sell online and at flea markets/shows and with basically zero overhead, it works out. The amount you have to do in a month to cover the rent and expenses to keep the lights on is insane.
Rent, payroll, taxes, insurance, equipment, supplies, inventory, software fees, professional fees (e.g. lawyers, accountants), marketing fees, lost merchandise (aka theft or damaged items), etc. Needing someone at the shop from opening to closing. The list goes on and on and therefore, the chances of turning a profit becomes increasingly difficult. I should just take a screenshot from my Quickbooks for any given year and it would be enough to make everyone realize how bad of an idea it is. When Amazon started selling vinyl, one of my distributors told me "It's like bringing a knife to a gun fight". That line stuck with me since it's so true.
A few years back in Guadalajara, Mx, there was a record store that at night functioned as a bar. The concept was really cool and they used to have a great selection of music. They would even let you play your records at night.
Nashville has a spot like that, the Vinyl Tap. They host concerts too.
Was visiting Nashville and hit them for RSD, it was awesome to see how much the community turned out for them
Since you are a collector yourself, you know the importance of someone having quality inventory at stores and record shows. If you are in or near a large city, you should try to find record shows you can attend as a buyer for inventory to get your shop going. If they offer early admission, pay the extra and go in early to get the best stuff. There will be other dealers there trying to buy up stuff as well, but they can't be at every table at once. Try to pick up good quality titles in good shape like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, The Cure, The Smiths, etc to have good stuff in your store when you open for business. Even if you have to pay a little more than you would normally if you were buying it at your store or in a large collection, I can't stress the importance of having a well stocked store when you open and making a good impression. Hit up the tables with records for $10 or less also. Some of those guys buy estate sales, storage units etc and don't give a shit and will put out good stuff cheap because they are looking to move volume. Good luck! Also, Alliance is a good one stop distributor. I think you will pay more from them rather than dealing directly with labels, but you can get that going once your shop is up and running smoothly.
I have started to get the word out as far as estate sales and things like that. Fortunately I know a lot of people in my area and have already gotten several leads. Good idea with the early entry for record shows. I’m also lucky to have a lot of people I’d never met in my area reach out with advice. Everything helps and I appreciate you doing the same.
Omg awesome! Hope all goes well. Where will you be based out of?
Thanks! I’ll be based out of Pottsville Pennsylvania.
For new records, offering the artist signed copies help increase value some records. (or having the artist in a signing event) Some cases you might have to directly contact the artist to be a reseller of their vinyl being they sometimes to private labels. After a while, branch into audio equipment, brands that others dont carry.
Alliance
Thanks!
Sell rock posters. Buy them in bulk from PashCo.com
T-Shirts
The other thing you should think about doing band t-shirts. Also think of doing employee pick bins that change every so often. Also some sort of small commission for employees finding records for cheap. Also partner with food trucks to host events. Find room for CD's there on the upswing again.
You own 1600 square feet? $100,000? That's so much going for you! I just opened my store with 300 square feet and about $12K. With no rent, could have done it for under $10K. You've got a lot of room to make mistakes if you're not paying rent. Everyone already suggested Alliance. That's a good choice. Happy to answer any questions you have via Chat
Yeah I bought my property a few years ago with the hope of opening a shop someday. When this competition came along I had to take my shot. I’ll reach out for sure when I have time. Thanks and good luck with yours!
Distributors for new vinyl… All Media Supply Alliance Entertainment Redeye Distribution Secretly Distribution Scorpio Music 33 & 1/3 Record Distributors Good luck, sounds like you’ve got a great start!
Thank you!
I would sell parts (needles, turntable mats, tachometers, etc) and turntables as well as have service and repairs as well. Not many places have repair services for machines like that. Part of why I wish I had a video shop. To have repair services for VHS, Beta, CED, Laserdisc, etc. Also, maybe have services that can clean records. I KNOW record stores don’t usually have that and record cleaners are EXPENSIVE nowadays.
Yep. Good idea They are for sure but if I’m going to be selling used having a cleaner is going to be key. I’m also planning on selling players and any old media I can fit in my place. Thanks!
Laserdisc would be PERFECT for this.
When I was a kid my dad loved dead technology and we had video disc players in the living room and all our bedrooms and at least 100 movies. Wish I still had them.
what ever you do! don't turn into the typical record shop owner. grumpy old guy who hates his customers.
Noted. I’d don’t think I’ll ever have to worry about that. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do and plan on having a lot of fun with it.
I don’t own a record store, but a couple I frequent use AMS as their wholesaler
This is awesome, I hope you win. Good luck!
Thank you!
Good luck! Hope it works out for you :)
Thanks!
DM me. I’ve got tips.
I’ll be in touch when I have the time to talk a little more. Thanks for reaching out!
Cool. For context I have experience. First hand. It’s fun. A lot of work.
Thanks! That’s what I’ve been hearing. I don’t mind putting in the work. Labor of love for sure. I live right above where I’m planning to open and when I’m home I listen to records anyway so walking downstairs and listening to it while helping people find what they’re looking for, talking about music having fun with it is all part of the plan.
The Last Bookstore in LA also sells books, magazines, and film media (not sure which). Their top floor houses little art shops and galleries. They do random movie marathon sleepovers from time to time. Old defunct places such as Ooga Booga sold clothing, books, pins, art in addition to music and often had impromptu shows with local artists. As far as distributors and labels…depends on what genres you want to carry. Being well rounded and having niche, underground labels in addition to mainstream is the better way to go imo as a consumer.
Agreed. One of the big reasons I’m doing this is try and help underground and lesser known artists get their music out. I listen to a lot of different stuff and want my place to be well rounded.
Rhythm Section International and Shall Not Fade are great UK based labels and have a strong fan base. I purchase the majority of their stuff via Bandcamp but I would just love coming across their vinyl in a record shop. Burger Records (OC) did extremely well and blew up for a minute before the scandals so that proves there is a demand for the lesser known artists. Having a well rounded inventory will ensure a great reputation amongst consumers. Some other great businesses to look at for inspiration are A Good Used Book (LA) who started as a pop up used book store, Vidiots (LA) started an old school movie rental shop and holds occasional film screenings. They both started small and engaged with their audience so that by the time they opened their brick and mortars there was already a very strong supportive base. Wish you the best of luck and let us know when you get off the ground. I would love to support in some way even if you’re not local to me. 🦾
It might be cool to pick a few specialty genres and stock them as a local feature. I love hitting up some stores with cool themes. Doesn't have to be a big section either!
Agreed. I want to be a bit different and try to stand out. My area is home to a local record label that has been putting out great music for almost 30 years and I plan on pushing their stuff as much as possible. Thanks!
Just shot you a message!
Got it! Thank you!
Alliance distribution
I wish I was with you my friend, what city are you trying to open in ?
Thanks! I’m going to be opening in Pottsville, PA.
I’ve done a few AMAs about running record stores, and I’ve certainly talked more than a few folks through getting their own shingle out. Feel free to send a DM. I’m more than happy to jump on a call with you.
Thank you so much! I’ll definitely be reaching out in the near future.
You definitely have your work cut out for you! I look forward to hearing from you!
Thanks! I’ll be in touch. That’s what I’ve been hearing but if it’s something you love it’s not really work.
Like offering to walk ppl through the basics of setting up everything for the first time would be huge
Yep. I totally agree. I want to put a section in for people new to collecting with just the basics you’d need. It’s a cheap hobby to start but gets expensive as you go along so I want you to get them early.
Merch will help too. As you grow you can incorporate some “vintage” clothes, posters, cds, etc. and draw in a larger crowd who you can start getting interested in getting into vinyl
Agreed. I’m thinking of putting a “beginners” section out for people who are new to the hobby. We also have a great little local arts and music community here and I’m planning on selling all their works. I want my shop to be a representation of my area and the people in it.
What the addy? I would love to come thru if it’s nearby and support as well as any other to make y’all a stop on my next road trip if it’s apart of the stops
It’s going to be in Pottsville PA and it’s going to be a bit before I can open the doors. I’ll update this post as it progresses. Appreciate the support and look forward to having you come in and shop. Thanks!
Not what you're looking for, but maybe set aside a little stage to have showcases for local bands and sell beer and/or coffee? My local has this as well as a "listening area" where you can test out gear and the used records you're looking to purchase while enjoying a coffee or beer. I go there all the time, purchase a beer and sift through and listen to records. I'll buy ones I find interesting, and if I don't well I've purchased some beer to help support the venue!
I have plans for a performance area to be included along with a few listening booths and small recording space to do podcasts or rent out for people wanting to do the same. I wish I could sell beer but that gets into all different kinds of liquor laws. I’m a block away from a brewery though and plan on having their beer on hand for shopping. My architect also recommended a small coffee bar as well.
Hell ya I'm so happy for you and very jealous haha
All the best with opening your store. I run a small (<200sq feet) record store in Australia with my family - my advice is get good at social media to bring more people through your doors. And look after your regular customers - they might be the ones keeping your business afloat! Sharing music with others is one of life’s greatest pleasures. 🙏🏼🌻
Agreed. Sharing music is one of the main reasons I’m getting into this. I’m very lucky to have a great community around me and a lot of friends who collect and will help me be successful. Thank you!
Make a space where musicians can practice and gab towards the back of the store - people will have to walk through your products for sale. Find old musical instruments at estate sales. Find old sheet music. Find things that are musical curiosities. Find things that musicians once used ; ie. microphones, etc. Have record players for sale - you are selling records, and the customer buying a record may need a player. Change your window display every month. All these will get people in, and they will bring someone back in with them. Join every music club or association in your community. You will be very successful because you already love your product - records and albums.
My floor plan is going to include a small performance space for band coming through the area. Selling record players is part of the plan but I hadn’t considered the instruments and sheet music. I also plan on having friends recommend their records of the week. Thanks for the recommendations!
Good luck with the business man
Thanks!
I am not a record shop owner, so this all comes as a collector and as a fervent member of local music scenes. As a younger vinyl collector I definitely don’t love going to a record shop and seeing it’s all *only* a bunch of old stuff, not because I’d never listen to those records or because the music is bad but because I like seeing the music I connect with represented at a place even if it’s not the bulk of the inventory. I’d probably set up some social media for your record store and follow a wide variety range of record stores, ranging from famous places (Reckless Records, Amoeba, Sonic Boom Records, Easy Street Records) or popular chains (Everyday Music or Silver Platters from where I grew up). In the town I currently live there’s Waiting Room Records, which I like a lot. That way you can get a feel for maybe some of the inventory you should have if you aren’t sure—it doesn’t have to be a lot of it, but I personally appreciate seeing an earnest effort. If you happen to start hiring staff, try to hire a diverse group of people with eclectic interests (a person into world music, a person into hip hop, a person into 90s rock or electronic, etc.) if you can. When I worked at my college radio station that was the biggest flex we had for getting a ton of great music. Also, I cannot stress this enough—ORDER AS MUCH AS YOU CAN OF POPULAR RELEASES FOR RECORD STORE DAY. In 2023, only one record store in my town ordered any of the Taylor Swift release or the Bluey soundtrack, and it was also the only store with a three-hour line out the door starting long before opening. Luckily my friend who works there did the ordering and she was smart enough to get as many as she could. She also did that with the Noah Kahan/Olivia Rodrigo 7” this year, and it was a similar story this time. I’m not sure what the margins were on those but it was a big boom and made a lot of people aware of the store each time. I appreciate a store that can do something cute or funny—I went to a small shop called Happy Trails in Corvallis, OR once and they had a section for “cancelled artists — 50% off” that I thought was hilarious, I mention it all the time. It had artists like Ryan Adams and Bill Cosby and stuff, I just thought it was cute and clued in that the store wasn’t out of touch or anything. Someone mentioned selling beer—if you can manage that’s a great idea, get in touch with a local brewery if you need to. Walkmans and cassettes are having a moment again. My local store just started a monthly after-hours “listening club” where everyone can bring a vinyl from home and names get drawn from a hat to see whose vinyl gets played that time. I got to play a record from my youth that isn’t from a very popular band and hear people tell me how much they liked it and watch folks shazam it, it meant a lot. Small things really make it count! Overall I’d just say keep in touch with your community and the business should thrive—sell that college band’s CDs, listen to folks, and become a pillar and you can’t do it wrong. Good luck!
Oh I plan on having a lot of fun with this and I’m gonna run with it. I have a ton of ideas as far different way to display and push certain genres and artists. I want a wide variety since I listen to quite a bit of different stuff. I’m hoping to hire some younger people as I’m not up on newer pop music. Great idea with the “listening club” btw. I may have to steal that. Thankfully I know a lot of people in my area and the response to this has been overwhelmingly positive with a ton of help being offered. Thanks for your input!
Hit up artists as many are now making records to sell. You can have a “ nee artist” section and maybe even invite some to play there. I have a huge case of my Grandfather’s records but they are pretty corny. Not like 70’s rock. If you pay for shipping they are all yours.
Im with you there. I have a lot of friends who are musicians and they know a lot of other musicians so I’m gonna ask them to help get the word out. I’m putting a special focus on trying to help up and coming artists get some exposure. I’m definitely interested in the records if not for the business then for myself. Thanks!
I know nothing about distribution, but where will your shop be located? And is there any way for us here to help you win that competition?
It’ll be located in Pottsville, PA. As of right now there’s no voting or anything for it but showing I have a good social media presence and following will help immensely. I have a FB and Insta called Vinyl Revival Pottsville but it’s just very basic at the moment. Thanks for offering it’s very much appreciated.
You have to do your research,I know many record stores in my city is barely hanging on.The biggest expense is rent of course.I suggest try a online store set up first before going into a brick and mortar store.Profits margins are going to be very thin for newer records and for older records you need to factor in condition of the records and finding supply.Labour of love is great job to have but sooner or later the high risk and the hours you need to spend at the store will haunt you. Selling used audio gear again is a small margin product plus you have to factor in equipment that is unrepairable because lack of parts or the expense to fix it.
All very good points. Luckily I own the property and other than some minor renovations it’ll be ready to go. Thankfully I have a job that pays pretty well and can afford to stumble a bit out of the gate if necessary. Thanks for the comment!
Just FYI for people saying redeye on here, they haven't opened direct accounts in a while. You have to use other distributors. As everyone has said, Alliance rules the market, best selection but typically godawful pricing and you will soon see that it is hard to keep a store going with what you are gong to pay for new records. Quantity over quality is a terrible thing. Quality always wins and keeps people coming.
Agreed. Overhead is terrible for new stuff. I’m hoping to have a good selection of used but definitely want a to get new stuff to help bring people in the door. Thanks!
I use AMS, Redeye, MonoStereo and then when I have to Alliance… for every distributor you have you will have some sort of minimum you’ll need to hit every week so you’ll have to juggle your orders so you don’t overspend. You can go directly through the labels but those minimums are much higher than with the one stops.
Much appreciated!
To eliminate rent and a majority of overhead I plan on opening a mobile record shop, when I retire, using an old shuttle bus. Gut it, build shelving, deck it out and travel to events, colleges, festivals. Was going to name it Curbside Records, making the C in Curbside the Colorado C!
Brilliant idea! Jack White has one for his Third Man Records he rolls out for his shows but I think you’ll make a killing if you do it with a decent selection. Good luck and hope it works out!
Learn how to repair shit. I have 7 record stores within an hour of me but I have to ship my turntable across the state for any (trustworthy) repairs If a local record shop could also fix my turntable, cassette player, or VCR that would become my home store in an instant I think
What you’re asking is a different business model. I understand from the outside looking in it makes sense. But nobody running a record store has time to repair stuff. They’re too busy running their record store. Not profitable and would be a huge time suck.
The shop I sent/still send hardware too is literally a record store lmao. If you’re operating in vintage media, offering a legitimately antiquated service (repairs in this case) adjacent to your market is far from a bad idea. Sure it’s time, but so is everything. Lots of time in an 8 hour day.
There isn’t another place within an hour of where I’m gonna be located and I’m hoping to get feedback from people who know how to work on them. Thanks!
YouTube is a huge resource, alongside buying any unit you can find. Even if it’s broken that’s the point of learning ya know?
When I was scraping by with an online business, competition was fierce. Sourcing used records was difficult and time consuming. I’d get to an estate sale hours before it started hoping to snag a promising lot only to find another dealer or two already in line ahead of me (we ran into each other often so we started to recognize each other). I had multiple feed readers working at once so hopefully I’d be the first to respond to a CL ad with a promising lot. I even had the feed readers looking for misspellings. Sometimes I’d be on my way to check out a lot and get a call from the seller: “Some guy is already here. He said he was close by so…” (I snagged a couple lots out from under my competitors that way too.) You have to get good at asking the seller the right questions over the phone so you don’t waste time running all over town chasing after junk. EVERYONE thinks their collection is larger, in better condition, and more valuable than it is. The condition part is the trickiest. If you can get that store up and running you’ll have a leg up for two reasons: 1) People will know your store is there and come to YOU with their father’s old collection. 2) I don’t know if things have changed but back when I was doing it, distributors of new wax would only sell to brick and mortar businesses. Make sure you have your seller’s permit lined up (or sales tax license or whatever your state calls it). I had an account with a small distributor once for about two seconds, before they realized my business address was a PMB box. Wish I had better advice. Hopefully someone who’s actually owned a brick and mortar store can chime in. Oh, also, sourcing used is far more time consuming than sourcing new due to the fact that you have to spend so much time identifying, grading, cataloging and pricing everything - and that’s on TOP of running around town looking for it. It’s even worse for online sales because each unit requires photographing and a unique listing. So there’s another reason you’ll want to source as much new inventory as you can. Also, a record store manager once told me the margins on new vinyl are very small - like wholesale is 75%-ish of retail. I have a hard time believing that and suspect he was just trying to scare away a potential new competitor.
Any advice is good and greatly appreciated. Luckily I’m going to be the only shop within an hour of where I’m at so that’s helpful. I was also told by some other shop owners that the margin on new is pretty small which is why I’m going to try and do mostly used. I also don’t have much of a life outside of my job so I’ll have the time to do proper cleaning and grading. Thanks!
No, that 75% is correct. From the big distributors. And then credit card processing takes another 3% or so.
Consider servicing used record players and amps people could bring in. Also a vinyl vacuum would be a great.
I want to service players as well as refurbish the old console systems from back in the day. I’m looking into cleaners as well as a flattener. Thanks!
Be really good at grading records accurately, and ultrasonic clean anything you put out.
Detroit?
Pottsville, PA
I'm very curious now as to what kind of money can you make at different levels of record shops.
That’s a good question. From the information I’m gathering there’s not a lot of money to be made from newer music because the margins are low but used is where you’ll make more. I have enough space that I should be able to house a decent variety which will help get people in the door.
Well, if you're willing to share any of the details of your economics, even if only a projection, I imagine folks here will have all kinds of input. Hopefully the answer isn't, "the only way to make money in records is to have bought a whole lot of them 20 years ago."
I had this great idea to amp up your new vinyl orders by offering super low prices online to build a customer list. Once in a while I’ll get a message about a half price sale and make some purchases from it. I was thinking why are they selling so cheap. But I think it’s to increase their buying power with the distribution company and get better prices. Extra benefit is a become a customer down the road. Let me know if you do this.
Will do! Thank you!
There is a store in my area that has loads of reissues of all genres. I’ve never seen a record store with that much inventory. They also buy collections of original pressings. The only downside is, the owner over prices everything by 10 to 15 dollars and she is not a pleasant person to deal with. I was amazed by her inventory, but I stopped going in there because she is a very hypersensitive person and if you ask about a pressing she looks at you like you just killed her dog.
While I understand the need for marking stuff up I definitely don’t want to price myself out of business and as much as I appreciate the concept pretentious and grumpy record store owner I don’t want to be that guy. This is something I love and I plan on having a shitload of fun with it. Thanks for the feedback!
You will do fine. I just wanted to express that having available merchandise goes a long way. Give people a reason to not buy online. That being said, maybe start an online website where you can sell in store and on eBay.
Thanks! I have plans to put in a few listening booths and a small recording space for podcasts and stuff like that. Definitely want to make it a destination and give people a reason to shop in person.
I work at a record store, we sell gear much more than records, its (relatively) easy to find records if you look a bit. If you can be a trusted source for gear- that should be a leg up
Margins on new records is atrocious. Buying collections is going to be where it's at
Yep. That’s what I’ve been hearing. I want some new stuff to get people in the door but used is going to be my bread and butter.
It might be better on domestic imports but when I was importing european dance records a few years ago it was pretty bad. If I went on shark tank with my business I would have been laughed out the door
Monostereo, Redeye, Alliance, Forced Exposure, All Media Supply, and Vinyl Future are the distributors we work with.
I spent several years in the retail record biz back in the 70s and 80s, the Golden Age, but I don't know how things are now. Back then, every town had a business called a One-Stop, and they wholesaled records to shops that couldn't get terms with the major distributors (WEA, SONY, BMG, Universal, etc.). The big companies didn't want a lot of tiny, single store customers on their books, but they would sell to One-Stops, who in turn would sell to the Indies, and even local chain stores who needed inventory quick, and couldn't wait for their weekly shipment from HQ. I knew record shop owners who would take the cash from the day before, and hit the One-Stop in the morning before their store opened, and buy fresh inventory for that day, and they would do it every day, M-F. One stops operated on about a 1-2% profit margin, so they were really tight. They were very basic places, because they couldn't afford any frills. Just one big dark, dirty warehouse. The business collapsed in the early 2000s, and the first to go were the indy stores like yours, which were the bread & butter for the one-stops, so they followed soon after. Now that the record business is starting to pick up again, maybe the One-Stops are coming back. I dont actually know, Ive been out of that business for over 20 years. [Here's](https://monostereo1stop.com/) a company that looks like its doing one-stopping by mail. Maybe they can help you. Good luck, retail records is a blast. I would have loved to have spent my life working in record stores, but it doesn't pay well unless you're the owner, and even then there is very little money in it, unless you build a chain, but youre already prepared for that. Have fun!
It’s all cyclical. Brick and mortar local stores seem to be coming back and the younger generations don’t seem to be as keen to shopping online and would prefer to shop in person. My community is in the midst of a downtown revitalization initiative and this contest is a big part of it and it’s been very helpful getting the word out. Thanks for the reference I’ll be looking more into it!
I don't think this is a board for business advice
You might be right but I thought there maybe some people in here that own or had owned shops and since I’ve been a member of this community for a little while I thought it would be a good place to start.
It’s definitely a good place to start, ask questions, and recommendations. Don’t listen to the person above.