About this Event
Kickstart your retail dream — from market stalls to online shops — and gain the tools and confidence to launch and grow your business.
Thinking of launching a market stall, pop-up shop, or online e-commerce business, but not sure where to begin?
This interactive three-hour workshop is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to explore retail business opportunities and take their first steps with confidence, including the opportunity to test trade your idea in a real market setting.
Whether you're still shaping your idea or ready to test it in the real world, this session will equip you with the tools, insights, and practical know-how to get started. From understanding today's retail landscape to choosing the right location and building a loyal customer base, you'll leave with a clearer plan and the confidence to move forward.
This workshop covers all types of retail — from traditional brick-and-mortar shops to online e-commerce, or even a mix of both.
Led by industry experts and packed with hands-on exercises, this workshop is your first step towards turning your idea into reality.
Plus, attendees will have an exclusive opportunity to test trade at The Exchange Market in Rochdale for six weeks, completely free of charge.
The market runs three times a week (Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday), with six stalls available for test traders. Each stall is 8 feet long by 3 feet wide, and participants will need to commit to running their stall for the full six-week period. It’s a fantastic chance to gain real-world experience, build confidence, and connect with customers in a supportive environment.
About the Workshop Leader – Elaine Simons
Elaine Simons brings over 30 years of experience in the retail sector, spanning corporate, public, and independent consultancy roles. Her career began in business development with the British Airports Authority, where she oversaw the development of retail sites in NHS hospitals across the UK.
Since founding EJS Marketing in 1992, Elaine has led numerous retail initiatives for local authorities, including Rochdale and Middleton, where she helped establish town teams, deliver pop-up shop training, and launch the "Win a Shop" competition. She has also supported graduate entrepreneurs through the University of Salford and worked with private retail and hospitality clients on customer service and business growth.
Please note: Entry will not be permitted without prior registration—unregistered attendees will not be admitted on the day of the event.
As this workshop is fully-funded, businesses are subject to funders' eligibility criteria. If your place is confirmed, you will receive an email from us with further details.
- Greater Manchester Clients Only
- It is strictly for people who have not started a business or have not registered a business and are in the early or idea stage of wanting to set up a physical shop or e commerce store or market stall
- Please note this workshop is only eligible for clients who have not previously received any prestart support from the business growth hub
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Agenda
Welcome & Introductions
Info: • Meet the presenter and fellow attendees
• Share your goals and what you hope to gain from the session
Understanding the Retail Landscape
Info: • The changing face of retail post-COVID-19
• Tailoring your business to meet the specific needs of your local area
• The rise of integrated online and offline retailing [Omnichannel retailing]
• Shifts in customer behaviour and new opportunities for start-ups
Researching Your Marketplace
Info: • Exploring your business idea
• Setting aims and goals
• Conducting effective market research [finding out what your potential customers want and need]
• Identifying your ideal customer
• Introduction to the Business Model Canvas [mapping out your business idea]
The Practicalities of Pop-Ups and Market Stalls
Info: • Choosing the right location: markets, shopping centres, event spaces
• Understanding costs: rent, deposits, service charges [extra fees for things like cleaning or maintenance]
• Fixtures, signage, and lighting essentials
• Legal basics: insurance and registering with HMRC
Building Your Brand and Customer Loyalty
Info: • Crafting your brand story [the message and values behind your business]
• Delivering personalised service
• Online and offline marketing strategies
• Building partnerships and community connections
• PR opportunities [ways to get media attention or public exposure]: events, festivals, demos, networking)
Wrap-Up & Q&A
Info: • Recap of key takeaways
• Open Q&A session
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Fire Up Co-Working Space, Maclure Road, Rochdale, United Kingdom
GBP 0.00
