Starting an Aquarium Business

[snorvich]

If you are addressing your comment to me, ctenophors rule, I have spares on all critical equipment.

 

[zulu_principle]

Not totally true !

Not totally true !

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15182815#post15182815 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by snorvich
If you want to make a small fortune in the aquarium business, you had best start with a large fortune. The business model for a brick and mortar LFS simply does not work without a substantial maintenance business.

Any business where you get multiple income streams optimally managed should be more successful than just a single stream. Maintenance along with a B&M can come with multiple headaches but the specific issue of labour in either is the biggest issue I have !

The more income streams the better, but online sales is its own beast and can certainly change how you do business in the future.

All the best.



Wendell

 

[snorvich]

After spending a lot of time consulting to an LFS on business and financial models, I can assure you it is true. Now if you have a income stream not involving a LFS's basic business it is no longer an LFS. Without maintenance, an LFS will fail. Most LFS have no idea if they are making money, breaking even, or losing money. Tremendous hobby knowledge, no business acumen.

 

[Crypsis]

Interesting thread! I wonder if the op ever got this up and running.

 

[SaveOurReefs]

Keep it alive!

 

[Atomikk]

Interesting thread! I wonder if the op ever got this up and running.

Probably not. Its not easy owning a LFS. Too much risk involved, unless you do 70/30 in drygoods/livegoods.

 

[snorvich]

Unlikely. Even if started, it is unlikely to be going still. Very difficult times for LFS.

 

[RandoReefer]

Almost 10 years later, and the OP's goal was 5 years out...... Would be nice to run a RC "Where Are They Now" segment!

 

[RasBobre]

I'm still in business with many of the same clients as 10 years ago. Of course 10 years ago I thought that I'd have a fleet of service vehicles by now and I would be on the beaches of Hawaii.

But I'm happy with my decision to go into self employment. My clients respect me and my local business community does too.

 

[daytonareefing]

Can you tell me who is farming corals in Florida. You said you know someone doing it in a green house. Thank you
Good luck with the business I always wanted to do it myself but I can't so I hope it works out for you.