Hours & Other Changes
One thing that we knew going into our little venture was that it was going to take a full year before we really figure out how the store will run. Things would need to be tweaked, items added & deleted, staff built, advertising decisions made, and so on. All expected and thought about ahead of time, but to find what works best you just have to try things in a live environment. So we have taken some fliers on product, most of which people have liked (see chillba), and made some other decisions that may not have been the best. We also knew that would happen.
Our initial hours were set based on many different factors. When we opened, the store was only about 60% full, building still needed to be done, "business things" needed taken care of, product needed ordered, and we needed time to figure out our inventory control system and point of sale software. All things that could only be done while we were closed. So in talking with our neighbors and experiencing our own activity, we set hours that would allow us time throughout the week to get those things done, but still be open when people wanted to come by.
Just like anything, sometimes you make the right call, sometimes you don't. I am sure we have made both, but ultimately, finding that sweet spot is the goal. The only way to do that is with the help of those who are affected by those decisions. Our customers. We have said it before, but I will mention it one more time. We love feedback. We want this to be a group effort. It has to be for a small business to survive in todays world. Please let us know what you like, don't like, or are indifferent about. It will only help to mold our store into something that will continue to supply you the service and product you enjoy. So, thanks to those who came in to let us know that you want to shop at 11 on a Sunday morning. Duly noted.
We are happy to announce...
NEW HOURS START IMMEDIATELY! Open at 10am every day of the week. except for Monday's as we are still going to be closed mostly for the reasons listed above. That might change coming into the holidays or once we have some other employees. We'll see. This is still a work in progress. Two and a half months down and with your help, many years to go. We will figure this out someday. Thanks for your input and understanding as we ramble on...
-Jonathan
