How to Start Your Own Confectionery Business
A confectionery business or candy store can be very successful and profitable, as people enjoy indulging their sweet tooth, and a variety of sweets might be ordered for parties, family reunions and even formal events. If you're thinking of starting your own confectionery business, note a few tips that can help you make it a success the minute you open your doors.
Brick-and-mortar or online business
An online business can reach more customers than a brick-and-mortar store, but remember that selling online means added work of shipping out packages. You'll also need to fill those orders quickly, as many online customers will probably be ordering sweets for a special occasion. Not getting your orders to them promptly can mean unhappy customers who are left without their candy for a special party! You also need to be concerned about how you package certain sweets so that they don't melt or get broken while in transit.
A brick-and-mortar store may also reach more customers than you realise, depending on your chosen location, as a candy store near a school or in a strip mall may see constant foot traffic from those looking to quickly indulge their sweet tooth. If you do choose a physical store, note its location, and ensure you find a property where there are lots of people who will walk by and be tempted to come inside and shop.
Choose your inventory carefully
When starting a confectionery business, you may be tempted to offer as many candies as possible, but remember that the more candies you put on your menu, the more ingredients, tools and storage space you need. You might start with confections that use many of the same ingredients, such as a variety of chocolates and just a few hard candies, and then expand your menu as time goes on, if needed.
Have a signature piece
Many food service establishments, including restaurants and pubs, will offer a signature dish, drink or beer, as this can encourage customers to visit their establishment versus their competition. You might do the same; even if you don't create a new recipe for a certain sweet, you might offer unique lollipop designs and shapes, or shapes of chocolate candies. You might even offer something overly large, as a giant cupcake or oversized lollies can be appreciated for parties, or you might offer smaller versions of items like cupcakes and chocolate treats, which might be popular for those who want to indulge without ingesting too much sugar! Work with confectionery suppliers as you plan out your signature foods.