goldenfleece
17-08-2005, 07:48
I cant understand how these small independant retail shops within the Forum can actually make any money. They never seem to have any customers, and prices are way over the top anyway for most things. I went shopping for a few 'alternative' items and priced a lot of things up, mostly jewellery related items, belt buckles, etc and found everything 50% cheaper at certain online shops. I imagine the rent in the Forum is sky high as well plus all the service charges and other costs.....anyone here running a forum shop? How do you make your money? Mail order? Sudden flock of loyal repeat customers every saturday at 10am? Just curious.....
jackthedog
17-08-2005, 10:19
There are only half as many shops in the forum as there used to be, so I'd imagine what you say about low customer numbers and high rent is largely true.
The Forum was a good idea, but the high rents made the shops overcharge so the customers just went elsewhere, which is a shame, I used to like the bit upstairs with all the second-hand clothes.
The forum will get alot busier once the pool hall open upstairs!!
I like the shops in the forum, you can't get that stuff at that many other places in sheffield!
Originally posted by scottf
The forum will get alot busier once the pool hall open upstairs!!
But they will just be going to the pool hall, not actually doing any shopping.
jackthedog
17-08-2005, 11:25
Originally posted by nick2
But they will just be going to the pool hall, not actually doing any shopping.
And if you dont like pool, then as far as you're concerned, it may as well just be closed.
my mate has a shop in the Forum, Yes Orange and has lots of regular customers and does very well. Her stuff is very reasonable and made to fit so a unique service.
goldenfleece
17-08-2005, 13:00
The BESPOKE type shops are good yes, by their very nature they are unique....its the general type small shops selling, well largely total tat that you can buy for half the price on the net or down the markets. I looked into opening a shop there last year but heard some bad feedback about sky high costs and 'hidden charges' as well whatever that may mean......