Hi guys, Getting ready to open the doors on my custom upholstery business and will need to locate shop space. I will need the equivalent of a three car garage (2 cars plus sewing and fab work area). Naturally money is tight so what are you business owners doing for shop space? Lease a freestanding building or Industrial park bay? How long of leases did you sign? I'm in Tulsa so this is probably irrelevant but, what are you paying per sq.ft.? Any info or words of wisdom would be greatly appreciated.
make sure its got room to grow and maybe a gated storage yard if possible. Location is also very important, you cant get business if they can't find you. I would look for a commercial industrial complex or a business park that allows your kind of work.
Space is the most important in my place. Location means nothing if you have a good rep. and can network a bit.
Thats kinda my feeling too. I have a few interested people already and custom interiors are more word of mouth than advertising in my opinion. Just dont know how to select the best place at the best price.
Just wanted to say good luck with your new shop. We need more upholstery guys! Security seems to be of more importance all the time. Industrial parks are good if security is good and there are no restrictions, except late night, on entery and exit. We were in a ip that had a guy that lived on the premises. Security was pretty good however, somethings did walk off. I think the secret to that is keeping the traffic down in that area. Oh, keep the scrapers out cuz they tend to take things that belong to the shop owners. I guess they think that if something is sitting out, they have the right to take it. Good luck!
Other advise would be to stay away from flood zones. Good lighting and electric are a must too. Also be aware of heating/cooling costs. Big spaces and high ceilings seem good till you try to heat/ac it.
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