Thinking of moving Location advice needed

[tor]

Hi All,
Whats your opinion on location location location??? Im based 7 minutes drive from my local town centre, i have no passing trade and the retail units beside me dont bring much business either, im open over 3 years and am just ticking over, this month is really quiet but i feel november has always been this way, Im considering moving into the town centre as i will have more passing trade, more people will know about me and i wont really have to advertise, There are a few salons in the town but only 2 that i would consider competition really, Im introducing laser hair removal and microdermabrasion to my salon next week and i will be the only salon offering laser. Iv thought about this before and weighted up the pros and cons and i think it would be a good move but i will be paying more rent approx €300 More, I know its alot but i have to look down the line and i feel passing trade along will bring in this money, Im very young so im willing to work hard and put the hours in, Advice would be greatly appriciated from all and especially from those who pay high rents for prime locations does it really pay for that perfect location?? xxxxxx

 

[Helen v]

Hi, although I know exactly what you mean about being town centre and getting passing trade, have you taken into account not only the rent but also any business rates as they too will be higher in prime locations.
We had a centre on a main run into town but at first floor height and found that it was near impossible to attract new clients in. We made the decision to move but we have actually moved into premises that are on the very edge of town, on a one way street with no other shops around.The main bonuses are we are very close to public car parks and not far from traffic lights and all i can say is it has been a massive surprise. Yes we were very concerned whether we would get passing trade, but since moving we have seen a nearly 40% growth.(and tbh the clients seem to be a better quality, if you know what i mean).
My advice look at the financial side fully, consider the increase in rent, rates and dont forget solicitor fees and fitting costs, if all of this is feasible for you and the property your considering feels right go for it, however also think about if you are introducing a unique service for your area then you are going to need to market it. So would you be better off having a revamp and doing a massive ad campaign but for the place you are already in. Other than possibly clients what will you gain by moving?

Sorry for the long ramble i hope it makes sense and maybe helps a little bit.

Helen xx