Tips For Writing a Grocery Store Business Plan

Adept Business Plans Inc. Jul 30, 2021 business plan tips, grocery store business plan

Tips For Writing a Grocery Store Business Plan

Opening a grocery store can be challenging because the big box stores and supermarket chains can offer a wide variety of products at low prices that small stores can’t. However, neighbourhood shops that stock local and sustainable foods find their footholds as people seek out healthy, chemical-free, locally sourced, fair-trade options. Like most of the rest of the world, Canadian shoppers have also discovered that a global crisis like COVID-19 can interrupt food supply chains, so they have turned their eyes and habits towards home.

If you are considering opening a grocery store or neighbourhood supermarket, it’s almost certain that you will require funding, either from private investors or commercial lenders. You will need to convince them that your idea is sound and that your store will turn a profit. The business plan is the tool that does that.

But where to begin?

A business plan consultant can prove to be the most valuable resource you utilize on your entrepreneurial journey. As professional business plan writers, they work with you to craft your professional business plan, aid you in developing a successful marketing strategy, and help you to avoid some of the more common startup pitfalls. Considering these points, business plan writing help is worth exploring during your initial days of conceptualizing a grocery store business plan.

What should I include in my business plan?

Your professional business plan writer will make sure that your plan is detailed, thorough, and contains the information that lenders or investors are looking for. If you decide to do this on your own, make sure to do your homework, so you are prepared to provide the critical information your business plan will need.

Be clear about your Mission Statement: What kind of store are you planning to open, and what are its goals and objectives? The mission statement gives the reader an immediate sense of what your business is about, what you want to do, and the impact on the local market.
Provide a detailed Market Analysis: Likely, one of the reasons you’d like to open a grocery store is because you see that a particular niche is unfulfilled. Maybe the neighbourhood is ethnic, and the people who live there can’t find the food they are familiar with. Or perhaps the demographic is one where residents deliberately seek out vegan or organic offerings. Let your research show the need for your store and then outline how your business will meet that need. Conduct informal neighbourhood polls, meet with the current store owners, talk to local growers, and carefully document your findings. Also, access online market research databases to see how the industry is performing and where it’s headed.
Describe the experience of your Management Team: Your investors/lenders will want to know the background of the people working for you. Experienced staff give a sense of security to lenders, including detailed resumes for the people already on board or a detailed job description for each position you intend to fill.
The Financial Plan: Next to doing market research, writing this section will require the most time. This part is very comprehensive, but your business plan writer is skilled at putting this together. You will include itemized startup expenses, startup assets, profit and loss projections, break-even analysis, and cash flow projections. Profit margins are traditionally slim for grocers, so be detailed when working out the sales forecast. Your market research ties in here and should support your projections. Lenders understand that it takes time for a business to be profitable, but the bottom line is that your financial plan will need to be clear about a break-even point in time.

Once you obtain the funding, it isn’t time to toss your business plan into your computer’s documents folder. Securing financing is just part of it. Your business plan functions to help you define your objectives and describe how to meet them. Mark, your calendar to review your business plan annually to ensure you are meeting the goals. As your business grows, you’ll want to edit your plan to reflect that growth. If you need a business plan writer, have questions about business plan cost or business plan writing help, contact Adept Business Plans Inc., for a quick discovery call.

Some more helpful resources:

Tips for Writing a Real Estate Agent Business Plan

Adept Business Plans Inc. Jul 24, 2021 Business Plan, business plan writers tips, Realtor business plan

The real estate market is hot right now and has been for some time. According to the Canadian Real Estate Association, home prices were 23% higher in April 2021 than at the same time last year. Increased immigration targets, the yearning for more space after being cooped up through the pandemic, and lower borrowing costs have all created a high demand for housing. While the market is predicted to cyool off and become more typical in 2022, it will remain strong. Despite where the market goes, being a real estate agent always remains an excellent career option.

Although becoming a realtor usually doesn’t require as much funding as beginning other businesses, a business plan remains essential. Professional business plan writers can help to craft a document that will define where you are today, where you want to be at a specific point in time, ways in which you’ll measure your performance, and when you should make a course correction. If you’re unsure where to begin or how to find professional business plan writers, there are many valuable internet resources to help you online.

Essential Points to Include in Your Plan

There is specific information that needs to be included and organized in your business plan, but here are a few key sections.

Mission Statement – This is the foundation. Your mission statement is what the rest of your business plan is built on, and it clearly and succinctly outlines your goals and guiding principles.

About Yourself – here you can highlight your skills and experience and you will contribute to the company’s success. A more comprehensive resume can be attached in the Appendix of the business plan.

Target Market – This is a particularly important section and, if professionally written, will reflect all the research that you’ve undertaken. Saying that real estate agents help buy and sell homes is true enough, but it’s too broad. Who, specifically, are your clients? Are they first-time home buyers or sellers? Will you be dealing with luxury homes or more modest, middle-class structures? Are your clients first time home buyers, or are interested in investment or commercial properties? Identifying your demographic provides the needed focus for your business.

Marketing – Much of the business of buying and selling homes comes from the work of generating leads. In this section, you’ll describe strategies like using social media, print or radio ads, brochures, and bench advertising. You will also want to identify how many leads (anticipated or confirmed) that these strategies have produced. Show the effectiveness of the marketing. Hiring a professional marketing strategist is a sound decision and a legitimate business expense.

SWOT (Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities, Threats) Analysis – This is a beneficial exercise as you write your plan, compare your services and business against each of these terms. For example, your strength might be cold calling, but your weakness is business analysis. An opportunity may be a niche real estate market like working with new immigrants who want to purchase a home but are unsure how to navigate the Canadian market. And finally, an example of a threat could be lumber or construction prices. The SWOT analysis is the most fluid part of your business plan and will likely be a tool you’ll use and tweak often.

Numbers, numbers, numbers – Determine the average commission per sale that you want to make, and then figure out how many homes you will need to sell each month, quarter, year to reach your target financial goal. Remember to be conservative.

Lastly, reviewing your business plan annually lets you see where you are at on your business journey, and it ensures that you’re keeping your eyes fixed on the goals! Looking for professional business plan writers for your business plan? Get in touch with Adept Business Plans (a Canadian business plan company) for a customized quote for your business plan.

How Instagram Influencers Are Redefining Digital Marketing Strategies

Adept Business Plans Inc. Jul 22, 2021 Marketing plans, social media marketing

Instagram Influencers and Digital Marketing Strategies

“People do not buy goods and services. They buy relations, stories and magic.” – Seth Godin.

Social media influencing has become a recognized and popular form of online marketing. Likewise, referring to someone as an ‘influencer’ is now a commonplace label. The mainstream media regularly refers to people as such, but what exactly does it entail? What is influencer marketing, and how does it work? Influencer marketing relies on Instagram as a central platform. Now nearly a 2-billion-dollar industry, Instagram influencer marketing is all the rage. Some influencers are able to make a living from paid posts and collaborative marketing campaigns.

The marketing strategy relies on a slow-and-steady approach to advertising. Like social media in general, efforts are not aimed at selling products directly. The strategy is built on demonstrating authority, credibility, and ethos within a given industry. Specific social media campaigns allow individuals to build a reputation in their field and become strongly associated with whatever they are offering.

2021 brought global uncertainty and many political, environmental, and economic unknowns. This uncertainty raised questions about the social media climate for brands and influencers. Keeping audiences engaged and maintaining a sense of integrity throughout has become pivotal in today’s environment. It is more important than ever for social media influencers to get these strategies right.

We are seeing more engagement now than ever before on social media platforms, likely due to a pandemic-induced reliance on digital communication. As a result, influencers are constantly creating new engagement methods to keep followers during these unfamiliar times. Brands are realizing that marketing through social media influencers could be a wildly effective business model when commercial advertisement shoots are inaccessible and DIY content (filmed at home) is still within reach. Influencer marketing strategies combine old and innovative marketing tools, using the power of celebrity endorsement but putting it into the hands of modern-day content-driven marketing campaigns. An influencer has the power to affect the purchasing decisions of others because of their authority, knowledge, position, or relationship with their audience. These individuals are rooted within a distinct niche with whom they actively engage. The size of the following depends on the size and reach of their niche.

The power of influencing is only gaining traction. Instagram influencers are key opinion leaders, and advertisers are leveraging their reach to create a positive impact. The focus is shifting toward creating content that is informative and impactful. The name of the game is to build dialogue, generate and share ideas, and drive actual change in social, ecological, or political spheres.

The COVID-19 pandemic led us down an unprecedented path, and many influencers have stopped taking regular branded content to promote social initiatives. The aim is to produce an original piece of content that will, in some way, contribute to and benefit a social cause or climate. Of course, not all influencers are working with an ethical agenda. Many influencers still use their online following for advertising for brands and companies to capitalize on capitalism simply. And it’s pretty darn effective.

Hope you found this blog post helpful! If you are looking for a social media marketing plan or just want to bounce ideas, get in touch with Adept Business Plans’ business plan writer for your custom marketing plan!

4 Reasons Why a Cash Flow Forecast is Useful for Small Businesses

Adept Business Plans Inc. Jul 21, 2021 business plan writer, business plan writer service!, professional business plan writer

4 Reasons Why a Cash Flow Forecast is Useful for Small Businesses

If there’s one big factor in a startup’s demise, it’s cash flow problems.

With plenty of small businesses failing, you’ll be thinking how a cash flow forecast can be useful for small businesses, right? Well, it’s pretty useful.

Protect the Future of Your Business with Risk Analysis

Adept Business Plans Inc. Jul 19, 2021 business plan writer, business plan writer service!

Protect the Future of Your Business with Risk Analysis

There are two major components of risks: the likelihood of something going wrong and the repercussions if it does.

How to Start an E-Commerce Business?

Adept Business Plans Inc. Jul 17, 2021 business plan writer, business plan writer in Canada., business plan writer service!

How to Start an E-Commerce Business?

Similar to starting any business, learning how to kick-start an e-commerce venture is a little challenging. However, launching, setting up, and maintaining websites where creators, designers, and entrepreneurs can sell their wares is a lot more attainable now than ever.

a business plan writer doing some calculations

Your Basic Guide to Creating a Financial Model

Adept Business Plans Inc. Jul 15, 2021 business plan writer, business plan writer service!, professional business plan writer

Your Basic Guide to Creating a Financial Model

Here’s a basic guide to creating a financial model. I will cut through the jargon to help you understand how to prepare a financial model for your business.

Why Your Business Plan Should be Written by One Writer Only

Adept Business Plans Inc. Jul 15, 2021 Business Plan, business plan writer

Why Your Business Plan Should be Written by One Writer Only

Having a strategic business plan is encouraged for a multitude of reasons. A robust and well-thought-out business plan can convince investors that you’re serious, understand the market, and have a vision for how your product or service will succeed. It demonstrates that you mean, well, business.

Financial Planning and Analysis: A Brief Overview

Adept Business Plans Inc. Jul 13, 2021 business plan writer, business plan writer in Canada., Financial Planning

Financial Planning and Analysis: A Brief Overview

Financial planning and analysis involve budgeting, analysis, and forecasting of the financial data. This can help companies support their strategic business decisions and align to their financial goals. It also helps an investor determine whether a company is profitable and stable enough for investment.

What to Expect When Writing a Business Plan with Me

Adept Business Plans Inc. Jul 10, 2021

What to Expect When Writing a Business Plan with Me

You’ve probably already read my post on the top five reasons to hire a business plan writer. Well, read on for a logistical rundown of what to expect when the chosen business plan writer is me.

Initial discussion on price, deliverables, and scope of work. Whether it is in person or virtually, our first meeting will help us flush out these details. Nothing shortens the road to an excellent business plan, like a mutual understanding of what is expected and what can realistically be delivered.

Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). You and your team can choose to sign before the questionnaire if you prefer. Otherwise, it can be completed alongside the Business Plan Service Contract. The NDA is a great way for everyone to feel protected when discussing ideas and plans. You’ve finally got your entrepreneurial wheels in motion, and nothing is worse than feeling as though your creativity or personal information is at risk. Signing the NDA ensures all information shared or discussed remains confidential.

Business Plan Questionnaire: This will help me deliver a great business planning service. The questionnaire has twenty quick questions. You do not have to answer every question. Just answer the ones that are relevant to your business.

Business Plan Service Contract (if NDA is already signed). Our Service Agreement will set out the relationship between you, the business receiving the services, and me, the business plan service provider. This contract will clarify, in writing, the terms of our agreement, including the services to be provided, how and when the services will be provided, and payment details regarding the services. It is a way to prevent potential misunderstandings or disputes arising throughout the term of the entire agreement.

First deposit to start the first phase of the business plan. This includes everything except financial projections.

Second deposit to start the second phase of the business plan. This includes the financial projection, one of the most specific and essential components of the business plan and one that requires particular insight and transparency into your company. This is another reason the peace of mind NDA is in place.

Update and midpoint check-in. I will update you with the progress mid-way during both phases of the business plan writing project.

Follow-up call after receiving the business plan questionnaire. This is a call to see how things are progressing regarding the questionnaire. I’m here to craft your most effective business plan and offer as much support as possible.

Note: For PNP Immigration Business Plans, the first phase is the business concept, and the second phase is the final business plan after ITA is received.

Payment and finalization. In terms of payments, I accept both interac (e-transfer) and cheques. (No credit card payment at this time).

As a business plan expert, I am always more than happy to offer two revisions included in the price, as long as we stick with the agreed business idea and the vision has not morphed too substantially. If the business idea does change, a new quote will be provided. I will deliver a final copy of the Business Plan in Microsoft Word and Excel format, easy to show and discuss with the team and user-friendly for presentations to potential investors. If you need any complex design files, I will be happy to chat and involve one of my graphic designer friends to help us with converting the business plan documents into design files. If you have any questions about my affordable business plan writing services, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.

Tips for Writing a Business Plan for an Auto Repair Business

Adept Business Plans Inc. Jul 6, 2021

Tips for Writing a Business Plan for an Auto Repair Business

Most people who complete the vocational schooling and apprenticeship hours required to become auto mechanics will continue to work for employers. However, some will channel their entrepreneurial spirit and open up their own auto repair business. According to UBC’s Small Business Accelerator Program, the auto mechanics industry in Canada will continue to experience steady growth, generating close to $12 billion annually. While new auto repair enterprises tend to be the regular brick-and-mortar shops, some entrepreneurs think outside the box and open mobile businesses that bring diagnostic, maintenance, and repair services right to a customer’s home. These startups are an expensive undertaking whether you intend to open a repair shop or plan on going mobile. Lenders or investors will want to see a professional business plan that doesn’t just outline revenue and expenses but one that is clear about your vision, objectives, marketing plan, strategies, industry experience, and the experience of those who will be working with or for you. A business plan is the most crucial document you’ll ever write. Having a professional business plan writer work with you to craft it will be money well spent (and it’s a legitimate business expense too!). If this is something you want to take on yourself, keep reading. If you are looking for a Business Plan Writer & Consultant for hire, there are many options in the marketplace.

Tips for Writing the Plan

Several sections make up a business plan, but let’s touch on a few essential points that should be included in yours:

Talk to a professional business plan consultant. These people are specialists who know how to write a business plan, develop a marketing strategy, find pertinent information about licensing requirements, and effectively point you in the right direction to help build your business.

Understand the value of a business plan. Many entrepreneurs tend to think its sole purpose is to secure funding. While that’s undoubtedly one of its functions, your business plan is also the roadmap that helps to get you to the destination of breaking even and turning a profit. Your business plan will outline your goals and how you’ll reach them and clearly define and explain the business. Some of the reasons businesses fail include not starting with enough money, planning, and overestimating revenue. The process of writing the business plan helps to identify potential problems and reduce the risk.

Starting a business is exciting and sometimes overwhelming. Use the process of writing the Objectives section to bring order to the chaos you might be experiencing as you prepare to open your auto repair shop. You may envision beginning a one or two-bay garage with yourself and one employee doing the work, and once the business has its footing, your goal is to expand to several shops or even franchising. The Objectives section will help you to identify the steps you’ll need to take to realize your dream.

Starting up an auto repair shop or a mobile auto repair business is an expensive undertaking. However, committing yourself to carefully crafting the Financials section of your plan will give you and your lender a clear picture of the amount of money you’ll need. This section requires you to be specific and to itemize revenues and expenses carefully. Always be conservative with your numbers and make sure you show the business breaking even at a particular point in time.

The Market Analysis and Marketing section will require you to do extensive research. How much time you’ve spent researching the auto repair needs of people in the area you plan to do business? Who are your competitors? What services do they offer? How do they reach customers? What sets your business apart from other shops? What tools will you be using to reach and retain customers?

Finally, practice, practice, practice. Know your business plan inside and out and practice presenting it to an audience. Ask a business plan consultant to critique your presentation. And finally, don’t forget to review your business plan at least once a year!

Business Plan for Cleaning CompanyBusiness Plan for CleanBusiness Plan for Cleaning Companying Company

How to Write a Business Plan for a Cleaning Services Company

Adept Business Plans Inc. Jul 3, 2021

How to Write a Business Plan for a Cleaning Services Company

Swish and Swipe, and everything is clean! That’s what cleaning companies do- add sparkle and shine to everything. A cleaning services company is a ‘neat’ business idea. It must begin with thorough planning and strategy to make sure all bases are covered. A well-written plan could make a huge difference right at the business planning stage. Apart from typical sections, several minor details are crucial to enhance a business plan. A business plan not only helps your get external funding but also prepares you for real business. What it contains must wash away any doubt and give a solid ground to grow. Including critical points and information in a proper manner improves chances of success and getting external funding.

★ A business must have a purpose- an underlying reason, such as to prevent allergies and spread of diseases due to dust and dirt, and so on, to spark interest in a cleaning company. Adding the primary purpose adds a sense of importance for a cleaning company. The business plan should talk about the target areas, such as commercial, residential, cars, carpets, Airbnb, and any other potential customers- why they will need the services.

★ The potential readers must get an idea of what to expect from the cleaning company in action. Talking about the kind of equipment for cleaning and the skill to operate and manage them is crucial for making your business plan stand out. The business plan should also talk about green products, protective masks, gloves, and other unique benefits.

★ Talk about the team, including a cleaner, a manager, and customer service persons. Doing so will give credibility to your cleaning services business.

★ A good plan outlines the marketing strategies, such as discounts, offers, subscriptions, and other techniques, such as limited-time promotions to roll out.

★ An essential part of any cleaning services company is that it should strikingly relieve its target customers of any cleaning difficulties. It should stand out among all other competitors in the same business. Think about what those points could be and how you could highlight them in your business plan.

★ Another vital point to keep in mind is to project the forecast of company goals and ambitions for the next 3-5 years—a better understanding of the road ahead with an action plan.

★ The business plan should convince the investors that the money they put in will be used wisely. Using strategic digital marketing over flyers and posters, using transport and other resources carefully, hiring the right staff, having a steady cash flow, and preparing for a downturn, give an excellent impression to the readers.

★ Support all of the above with carefully planned financial projections. Assessing the market risks, average costs, pricing structure, startup cost helps make a business plan practical. The plan should have justifiable costs supported by income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.

Starting a cleaning company is an active task. A cleaning company calls for customer satisfaction from the very onset. A business plan can help address some of these factors right from the get-go. Questions to ask yourself: How will this business make a difference in the lives of your target customers? How will you ensure excellent customer service? How will you ensure a healthy ROI? There are a plethora of reasons you can benefit from writing a business plan or using a business plan writer service. If you’re seeking a loan or investment, or just want to think through every area of your new business, a business plan is an answer to all your preparations to launching your cleaning services company. If you are looking for business plan writers for your next cleaning services venture, let’s chat.