bookstore business plan template free

• Sample Plans
• Retail, Consumers & E-commerce

Bookstore Business Plan

Ready to open a bookstore? Explore this bookstore business plan example and download a free template that helps you with all the steps needed to create a solid business plan for your bookstore.

As everyone knows independent bookstores are making a remarkable comeback despite being in the digital era.

This is so because people are still craving unique book selections and a personal touch that only a physical bookstore can offer.

So, if you've ever thought of starting your own bookstore, now is the time!

However, you'll need to create an actionable business plan to turn this exciting opportunity into a thriving business venture. It will also help you draw investors's attention and secure bank loans.

Need help preparing your plan?

Not to worry! In this blog post, we’ve illustrated a sample bookstore business plan that you may use as a reference while drafting your own plan.

Sounds good? Let’s get started.

Sample bookstore business plan

Writing a comprehensive business plan will not only help you clarify your business idea and vision but also assist you in navigating the challenges of running a bookstore.

So, let’s explore this bookstore business plan example and get practical information & steps to prepare a professional-looking business plan.

Executive summary

The Reading Haven is a vibrant, independent bookstore, which is located in the heart of Portland, Oregon. Our goal is to create a relaxing, friendly environment for book lovers, where they can escape the hustle and bustle of their routine life, discover new stories, and connect with fellow readers.

We are thrilled to serve the local community through our wide range of books across various genres and an extensive selection of stationery or office supplies that cater to every customer's needs.

At our store, we have a cozy reading lounge and a small café serving tea, and coffee. Moreover, we're all set to nurture a passion for reading and support local writers by hosting regular author events and community reading groups.

Vision statement

We at the Reading Haven have a vision to be the most favorable destination for book lovers in Portland. We also strive to maintain an exceptional selection of books, community engagement, and devoted staff members.

Customer focus

Our target market for the Reading Haven will include avid readers of all ages, local authors, families, and coffee lovers. As we are located within walking distance of the University of Portland, it will bring in college students and staff to the bookstore.

Marketing efforts

Our marketing efforts include social media advertising, an engaging website, in-store promotions, a monthly newsletter, and collaborations with schools, local authors, and libraries.

Our sales strategies involve special events, loyalty programs, and personalized book suggestions. We even ensure our pricing will be competitive with a focus on perceived value.

Success factors

The Reading Haven presents the following success factors in order to survive and expand:

• Our store is strategically located on the busy streets of Portland to attract locals and tourists.
• We offer a diverse and high-quality selection of books that meet various interests and different age groups.
• We aim to host regular events, including author readings, book signings, and book clubs.
• At our store, we provide a relaxing and pleasant environment for enhancing the overall customer experience.

Financial Outlook

At the Reading Haven, we're currently seeking $150,000 in funding. This will help us cover the initial startup costs, such as leasehold improvements, inventory purchases, marketing budget, and working capital for the first quarter operation.

In addition to that, our detailed financial projections illustrate the expected financial performance over the next 3 years:

Company Overview

The Reading Haven is a cozy, community-centric bookstore located at 1234 Maple Street, Suite 200, Portland, OR 97204, USA. It is designed to integrate the traditional charm of an independent bookstore with the modern appeal of a soothing café.

The Reading Haven proposes a curated section of books across different genres, such as fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, and local authors. It also features a calming reading lounge and a small café serving tea, coffee, and snacks.

So, it's not just a place to purchase books; it is a monastery for book lovers of all ages.

Legal structure

Our bookstore—The Reading Haven is registered as an LLC (Limited Liability Company). This kind of structure allows our business to get benefits from the partnership clarity and offers limited liability protection for the business owners.

Mission statement

Our mission is to cultivate a calm and friendly space where readers can unveil new stories, connect with authors, and engage with the community.   We even aspire to nurture a love for reading and support local writers by presenting a cheerful, customer-focused atmosphere.

Business owner

Emma Collins is the owner of the Reading Haven. She also serves the responsibilities of the manager. Emma has an expert-level knowledge in literature & business management. This will help us lead the bookstore effectively.

Background information

With a deep passion for literature and a desire to build a unique space, Emma Collins established "The Reading Haven" where book enthusiasts can feel at home.

She got this business idea by realizing the necessity for a community-focused bookstore that not only sells books but also presents a vibrant place for readers. It also allows readers to gather ideas, share their thoughts, and participate in literary events.

The Reading Haven desires to revive the charm and warmth of physical books and in-person interactions, along with the growing trend toward digital media.

Goals and objectives

The Reading Haven aims to establish a loyal customer base through effective marketing, excellent services, and community engagement within the first year. Further, we're looking to reach the break-even point within the first year of operation and develop consistent revenue streams.

Our long-term goal is to expand the store's visibility using strategic partnerships, a strong online presence, and participation in local events. We ensure to achieve the long-term financial health and sustainability of the business with careful financial planning.

Industry analysis

The bookstore market has experienced significant growth in recent years due to a growing appreciation for the personalized experience and community engagement that independent bookstores present.

According to Statista, the revenue of the books market is expected to reach $23.40 billion by 2024 in the United States. Also, it demonstrates a CAGR (2024-2029) of 3.10%, with a projected market volume of $27.26 billion by 2029.

Despite online retailers and e-books dominating the market, many book lovers still value the tangible experience of scanning through physical books and becoming involved in local literary communities.

Moreover, the addition of cafés within bookstores has evolved as a trendy approach that enhances the overall customer experience and provides a unique selling point.

Target market

The Reading Haven's target market comprises of

• Individuals of all ages with a strong passion for reading
• Local authors looking for a supportive platform to sell their works
• Parents & children pursuing quality children’s books
• Coffee aficionados seeking a cozy, literary-themed setting
• Visitors to Portland peeking for a unique, authentic bookstore experience

Key competitors

The Reading Haven faces competition from several key players in our region:

1. Powell's City of Books

Powell's is a well-known independent bookstore, serving Portland, Oregon, since 1971. It offers a diverse selection of used books and new volumes, as well as gifts for bibliophiles.

• Extensive selection of books of multiple genres
• Strong brand presence
• Large store with a wide range of merchandise products

Weaknesses:

• Not suitable for customers seeking a more intimate shopping experience
• Less personalized service due to the scale of operations
• Lacks the community-focused atmosphere

2. ADLE International

ADLE International is an independent bookstore dedicated toward the mission of affordability and education for limited-income earners.

• Specializes in rare and out-of-print books
• Unique checklist that cannot be easily found elsewhere
• Strong focus on a specific market segment
• Limited range of genres and categories
• Smaller customer base due to the niche focus
• Not presenting any community events

3. Lloyd Center

It's a shopping mall along with different retail options, including bookstores.

• High foot traffic and accessibility
• Attracts broad audience
• Set a presence with a various type of stores
• Lacks the specialized and cozy environment
• Less emphasis on personalized service
• Not focused exclusively on books

SWOT analysis

Products or service offerings

The Reading Haven is going to retail a wide range of books, stationery items, and literary-themed gifts. We will also consider selling the following products at our bookstore:

• Fiction & non-fiction book selection
• Children’s books
• Local (Portland and Oregon-based) authors' books
• Specialty publications
• Journals and notebooks
• Various designs & bookmarks

As well as we offer a relaxing environment for customers to enjoy while reading or socializing. Our café offerings include beverages, snacks, and light meals.

Furthermore, we are planning to host a variety of events, such as author readings, book signings, book clubs, writing workshops, etc. This will help us build community engagement and support local authors.

Unique selling points

At the Reading Haven, we have a well-curated book selection that ensures quality and relevance to our customer's interests. We also regularly organize events and book clubs to develop a passionate literary community and uplift ongoing customer engagement.

Furthermore, we've hired a knowledgeable staff that provides personalized book recommendations and builds a friendly, approachable atmosphere.

Operations plan

The Reading Haven operates seven days a week, from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekends. Here, we've described the daily operations that our business performs to serve our customers:

Staff training

We train our staff to effectively assess the security protocols, such as controlling shoplifting incidents, handling cash, and responding to any crises. Also, we conduct regular meetings to keep our staff informed and prepared.

Inventory management

We've partnered with respectable book distributors, local authors, and publishers to develop strong relationships and regular deliveries. This will help us ensure a steady flow of inventory. By tracking stock levels, we can even manage orders and monitor sales trends.

Maintenance and cleanliness

We regularly maintain high standards of cleanliness throughout the store and café. Also, we schedule frequent checks and repairs for the store’s interior and exterior, as well as ensure everyday cleaning routines are followed.

Technology & systems

At our bookstore, we will implement a robust POS system to manage transactions, an inventory management system to keep track of stock levels, and CRM software to handle all the customer information.

Your operations plan must be clear, well-written, and practical enough. So, ensure that you regularly review and update it as your business grows.

Organization and management

Emma collins, owner and manager.

Emma takes care of the overall management of the Reading Haven, including strategic planning, financial management, inventory selection, and staff supervision.

Background: Emma has a Bachelor's degree in English Literature and an MBA. With over 10 years of experience in the book retail industry, she managed a local independent bookstore.

Mark Johnson, Café Manager

Mark oversees the day-to-day operations of the café and handles the menu planning, supply control, and customer service.

Background: With over 8 years of experience, Mark has a strong expertise in hospitality management. Also, he has worked in various cafés and restaurants.

Sarah Mitchell, Event Coordinator

Sarah is responsible for planning and executing all the in-store events, such as book signings, book clubs, and author reading. She also coordinates with local authors and community groups.

Background: Sarah holds a Master's degree in Event Management. Likewise, she has 6 years of experience in organizing community events and literary gatherings.

Julia Lee, Children's Book Specialist

Julia has a role in maintaining the children's book selection. She even organizes children's events and reading groups, as well as advises parents and young readers.

Background: Julia has a degree in Early Childhood Education and plenty of experience in children's literature.

Carlos Hernandez, Marketing Director

Carlos specializes in developing and implementing marketing strategies. He also operates social media accounts, builds promotional materials, and improves the bookstore's online presence.

Background: Carlos has a Bachelor's degree in Marketing. Also, he has significant experience in digital marketing and brand management.

Sales and marketing strategies

As there are 43,688 bookstores in the United States , we'll need to captivate the hearts of book lovers through multiple strategies, including traditional & digital approaches.

At the Reading Haven, we have the following some of the promotional plans to attract and retain customers in the competitive marketplace.

Online marketing plan

The Reading Haven will develop a user-friendly website, use social media channels (Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter), send out a monthly newsletter to subscribers, and collaborate with local influencers and bloggers. This will allow us to engage with customers, advertise new arrivals, and promote events.

Offline marketing plan

We will also use offline marketing strategies to promote our business. It includes regular in-store promotions, loyalty programs, member discounts, flyers & posters distributions. We also host special events and workshops as well as partner with local schools, libraries, and community organizations.

Sales strategy

We will offer a membership program with a few benefits, create bundled offers that pair books with related merchandise or cafe items, and implement customer loyalty programs where they gain points for every purchase. We will also execute special promotions during holidays and local events. This will increase our sales and enhance customer experience.

Pricing strategy

The Reading Haven ensures that the prices are competitive with other bookstores and online retailers while reflecting the quality of the selection. We also offer premium rates for limited editions, signed copies, and rare finds. Even, we present sales events and regular discounts to draw budget-friendly patrons and move older inventory.

Funding request

Starting and growing the Reading Haven requires a significant amount of capital. Here, we've listed our financing requirements:

Amount of funds required

The Reading Haven aims to secure $150,000 in funding. The funding amount will be dedicated to cover the initial startup costs and ensure smooth business operations during the first six months.

Use of funds

Financial projections.

The financial projections for Reading Haven will demonstrate a positive forecast of revenue growth, manageable expenses, and increasing profitability over the first 3 years of operation.

Key revenues

Expense projections, profitability, cash flow statement.

The Reading Haven's cash flow statement reflects the inflows and outflows of cash. This will ensure that our store keeps sufficient liquidity to cover its operating expenses and any unexpected costs.

Income statement

Our income statement (profit & loss statement) describes the revenues, expenses, and net income, as well as provides a clear snapshot of the store's financial performance.

Balance sheet

The Reading Haven's balance sheet will give an exact idea of its financial position (including assets, liabilities, and equity).

• Break-even analysis

For the Reading Haven, we have performed a break-even analysis that specifies the fixed & variable costs, as well as the sales price per unit.

Download a bookstore business plan template

So, are you ready to start drafting your bookstore business plan? But need help with that? Look no further; download our free bookstore business plan template PDF and get started now.

This investor-friendly business plan template provides you with easy-to-follow instructions and examples that help you create a solid business plan effortlessly. You can even revise it as per your specific needs.

Now, with this sample business plan, you've got a clear idea of writing a comprehensive yet effective business plan for your bookstore.

If you're still confused or find it challenging to draft a detailed business plan from scratch, you may consider using an AI business plan generator . It will help you create a business plan more effectively and quickly.

You'll have to simply answer a few queries and it will generate your plan in minutes!

Get Your Business Plan Ready In Minutes

Answer a few questions, and AI will generate a detailed business plan.

Generate your Plan

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I secure funding for my bookstore?

To secure funding for your bookstore, first you'll need to create a comprehensive business plan that includes all the key aspects of your business. Further, you have to identify potential funding sources like small business loans, angel investors, crowdfunding, or government grants.

In addition to that, you should consider networking with industry experts and attending relevant events to connect with potential investors.

What are the key financial projections I should include in my business plan?

You should consider including the following key financial projections in your plan that every potential investor needs to know:

• Profit and loss statement
• Balance sheets
• Cash flow projections
• Sales and revenue forecasts
• Funding requirements
• Tax considerations

How can I make my bookstore business plan stand out to investors?

Consider following the below key strategies to make your bookstore business plan stand out to investors:

• Summarize your unique value proposition that differentiates your store from the others.
• Highlight your market research and showcase an in-depth understanding of your target customers and their needs.
• Create a detailed financial plan that illustrates your realistic financial projections.

Include visual elements (like charts or infographics) to make your plan visually appealing and enhance readability.

What key elements should I include in the executive summary?

Here’s the list of key elements that you should include in your executive summary:

• Business idea and goals
• Mission-vision statements
• Target market overview
• Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
• Promotional strategies
• Financial highlights

As the founder and CEO of Upmetrics, Vinay Kevadiya has over 12 years of experience in business planning. He provides valuable insights to help entrepreneurs build and manage successful business plans.

Follow Vinay Kevadiya

Related Sample Plans

Pool Hall Business Plan

Sports Complex Business Plan

Yoga Studio Business Plan

• Sample Business Plans
• Retail, Consumers & E-commerce

How to Write a Bookstore Business Plan: Template & Guide

Have you ever thought of opening your own bookstore?

Well, starting a bookstore is a rewarding venture that combines a passion for books with business savvy!

Whether you aim to open a niche store catering to specific genres, a cozy corner shop stacked with dusty classics, or a vibrant space filled with the latest bestsellers, the first thing you’ll need is a strong business plan.

Need help getting your plan in order? Don’t worry; we’ll help!

Explore this bookstore business plan template that will help you get started, understand what to include in a business plan, and guide you on how to make it compelling for investors.

Sounds good? Let’s dive right in!

Why You Need a Business Plan for Your Bookstore

A business plan serves as a strategic roadmap for your bookstore, highlighting your business goals, strategies to achieve them, and growth plans for the next few years.

Whether you’re planning to start a new bookstore or expand an existing one, you need a well-thought-out business plan to make it successful.

Here are several reasons why you need to write a bookstore business plan:

To get clarity on your vision

Well, writing a business plan helps you crystallize your unique business idea, vision, and short-term objectives. This will force you to consider each aspect of your business, including financial projections, operational procedures, marketing tactics, and long-term goals.

To raise funding

If you want to secure funding, you will need a solid business plan in place, as it shows the viability of your bookstore venture. Also, it is easier for potential investors to understand the financial aspects of your business and learn about the industry and market before making any decision.

To better understand your competitors

Conducting thorough market research is integral for a business plan, allowing you to comprehend the competitive landscape easily. Plus, you will get the information you need about your competitors, including their price points, USPs, market positioning, and target customers.

To identify potential risks

When you create a business plan, you can identify the potential risks and challenges your bookshop may face. By knowing these risks beforehand, you can develop contingency plans and strategies to mitigate their impact and ensure the long-term success of your business.

Now that you know the importance of having a business plan , let’s explore the key components you need to include in a bookstore business plan.

What to Include in Your Bookstore Business Plan?

While drafting a comprehensive business plan, you should include the following key sections in your bookstore business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first and foremost section, providing a high-level overview of your bookstore business plan.

Though it is an introductory part, it would be more convenient to write in the last once the entire doc is ready. Why? It summarizes the most important points you have included in the rest of the plan.

Your executive summary may include a brief description of your business, including.

• Business concept & status
• Vision/mission statement
• Market opportunities
• Your target customers
• Marketing strategy
• Financial highlights

The primary goal of writing an executive summary is to quickly engage the reader and persuade them to delve further into the plan. So, keep this section simple, concise, and compelling enough.

Say goodbye to boring templates

Build your business plan faster and easier with AI

Plans starting from $7/month

2. Company Description

The company description section provides an in-depth understanding of your bookstore, starting from its basic information (like its registered name, location, and size) to its long-term plans.

So, this is your opportunity to present your business concept in detail that every potential investor or any financial institution needs to know.

You may also include the following points in this section:

• Type of bookstore you own (traditional bookstore, online store, hybrid approach, specialty store, etc.)
• Business founders
• Core values or short history
• Previous achievements (if any)
• Legal structure(s-corp, an LLC, or a sole proprietorship)
• Short-term and long-term goals

This section introduces your business to the readers, so make sure that it is concise yet engaging.

3. Market Analysis

In the market analysis, you should give a thorough knowledge of the industry in which your bookstore intends to operate, the competitive environment, and industry-specific elements affecting business success.

This will help you identify and understand the target market, along with the customer demographics, psychographics, and preferences.

For instance, you may refer to an example of target market segment of the Maxwell bookstore:

By conducting detailed market research, you could even analyze the top competitors in your area and evaluate the emerging market trends, like digital vs. print selections, emerging genres, etc.

Remember, the main intention of this section is to identify the market gaps and describe how you stand apart from the other bookstores.

4. Products and Services

The products and service offerings section should present a detailed breakdown of what type of books you plan to sell, what you’ll charge for them, and what other services you might offer.

You may include some of the most common product categories such as, magazines and newspapers, religious books, autobiographies, textbooks & educational materials, or stationery.

In addition to that, you may even highlight the services, including book clubs, workshops, reading events, or a cafe.

5. Marketing and Sales Strategy

As the name indicates, this section involves the strategies you’ve decided to attract and retain customers by promoting your business. You may include online and offline marketing or external promotional campaigns.

For example,

• Outline branding principles and logo
• Describe marketing strategies (traditional advertising, digital marketing, author signings, or community events)
• Discuss any collaborations (schools or local organizations)
• Define pricing strategy & sales channels
• Explain loyalty programs or incentives

Overall, these sales and marketing strategies will help investors to recognize how you’ll promote your bookstore and generate sales, making it essential to consider.

6. Operational Plan

As you have clarified your business goals in the previous sections, now it’s time to explain how you’ll accomplish those goals.

In your operations plan section , you’ll need to describe the day-to-day activities required to run the bookstore smoothly.

For instance, consider outlining operational routines like how much staff strength you will require, how you will handle administrative duties, and keep track of inventory.

Furthermore, you may summarize customer service protocols, technology requirements, and bookstore layout plans.

7. Management Team

A well-trained and strong management team is crucial to your bookstore’s success. So, here, you will introduce your management team in this section.

You may highlight the bookstore owners and key manager, along with the educational backgrounds, skills, and experiences that help you grow your business.

Also, try to explain how each member fits their roles and what responsibilities they will take care of, like resume-styled summary. You may even add a personnel budget plan to demonstrate their salaries.

8. Financial Plan

A financial plan is the most important aspect of your business planning. Typically, a bookstore financial plan covers the financial projections for the first 3-5 years.

You may consider including a few critical statements and reports such as sales forecasts, income statements, cash flow estimates, balance sheets, revenue streams, initial startup costs, funding requirements, and break-even analysis.

Here is an example of a balance sheet prepared using Upmetrics:

Besides that, you may discuss essential financial assumptions and include sensitivity analyses for different sales scenarios.

This way, you can demonstrate to financial backers that you have a solid understanding of the finances, allowing them to make informed decisions and see your store’s long-term growth and profitability.

9. Appendix and Supporting Documents

In this section, you may attach any supporting documents that don’t fit into specific sections but support your plan. It includes

• Market research data and surveys
• Licenses & permits
• Supplier agreements or contracts
• Resumes of an executive team
• Store location lease & design blueprint

You may also incorporate any additional documents or attachments that your readers might use for reference.

Download a Sample Bookstore Business Plan

Ready to start writing your bookstore business plan but need more assistance? Well, here you go; download our free bookstore business plan template PDF to get started.

This modern business plan template has been specifically designed for bookstores in mind. It comes with step-by-step guides and examples that help you develop your own plan.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

Now that you have a detailed bookstore business plan outline, it’s much easier to kickstart your plan writing process.

However, drafting a comprehensive business plan from scratch can be a daunting task. But not to worry; Upmetrics could be a great companion here!

It’s a modern, AI-powered business plan generator that helps new entrepreneurs and small business owners create investment-ready plans in minutes.

From easy-to-follow guides and 400+ sample business plans to financial forecasting software, Upmetrics offers everything to streamline the entire business planning process for you.

So, wait no longer; start preparing your plan!

Related Posts

ChatGPT Business Plan Writing

Importance of Business Plan

How to Conduct an Industry Analysis for Business Plan

Common Business Plan Mistake to Avoid

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the financial projections i need to include in my business plan.

You should include the following financial projections in your business plan:

• Profit and loss statement (Income statement)
• Cash flow projections
• Balance sheet
• Break-even analysis
• Initial funding needs

Is a bookshop business profitable?

According to reports , the bookshop market is expected to increase at an annual growth rate of 1.7% through the end of 2024 and is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 3.0% in 2029. So, opening a bookshop would be a profitable business for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Is a business plan template essential for opening a bookstore?

Of course, having a business plan template can be very helpful for opening a bookstore. You can use it as a reference point while writing a business plan instead of starting from scratch. It provides a structured outline, pre-designed sections, prompts, and customization options tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Are there any free or paid bookstore business plan templates available online?

Yes. There are both free and paid bookstore business plan templates available online. You may consider using Upmetrics’ free bookstore business plan PDF to structure and detail your business plan outline.

Should I get professional help with writing my bookstore business plan?

It’s not mandatory to get professional help while writing your bookstore business plan, as there are different business planning software available. However, having professional assistance could be a worthwhile investment. It will save time and help create high-quality plans that speak to your financial backers or stakeholders.

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

Turn your business idea into a solid business plan

Explore Plan Builder

Plan your business in the shortest time possible

No Risk – Cancel at Any Time – 15 Day Money Back Guarantee

Create a great Business Plan with great price.

• 400+ Business plan templates & examples
• AI Assistance & step by step guidance
• 4.8 Star rating on Trustpilot

Streamline your business planning process with Upmetrics .

Bookstore Business Plan Template

Bookstore Business Plan

If you want to start a new bookstore or expand your current bookstore, you need a business plan.

The following bookstore business plan gives you the key elements to include in your own successful business plan. It can be used to create a traditional bookstore business plan or a plan for a used bookstore, religious bookstore, vintage bookstore, specialty bookstore, online bookstore, and many other types of independent bookstores.

You can download our Bookstore business plan template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.  

Sample Bookstore Business Plan

I. executive summary, business overview.

[Company Name], located at [insert location here] is a new, independent book store focused on staff curated book selections. The cozy bookstore offers a book club, author events and children’s story hour.

Products and Services

[Company Name]will offer a wide selection of books including children’s literature, modern fiction, true crime, cook books, foreign language titles and art books. The store will also feature monthly author events and weekly children’s story time. Gift wrapping service will be provided, and gift certificates will be sold to encourage customers to buy for the children of friends and family members.

Customer Focus

[Company Name] will primarily serve the residents who live within a 10- mile radius of our store. The demographics of these customers are as follows:

• 416,000 residents
• 1,750 workers (who do not live the neighborhood)
• Average income of $54,700
• 38.9% married
• 49.6% in Management/Professional occupations
• Median age: 34 years

Management Team

[Company Name]is led by [Founder’s Name] who has been in the book business for 20 years. While [Founder] has never run a book store himself, he was an assistant manager at another book store previously. As such [Founder] has an in-depth knowledge of the book business including the operations side (e.g., running day-to-day operations) and the business management side (e.g., staffing, marketing, etc.).

Success Factors

[Company Name] is uniquely qualified to succeed for the following reasons:

• There is currently no independent book store in the community we are entering. In addition, we have surveyed the local population and received extremely positive feedback saying that they explicitly want to frequent our business when launched.
• Our location is in a high-volume area with little direct traffic, and will thus be highly convenient to significant numbers of passersby each day.
• The management team has a track record of success in the book business.
• The book store business is a proven business and has succeeded in communities throughout the United States.

Financial Highlights

[Company Name] is currently seeking $330,000 to launch. Specifically, these funds will be used as follows:

• Store design/build: $165,000
• Working capital: $165,000 to pay for marketing, salaries, and land costs until [Company Name] reaches break-even.

Top line projections over the next five years are as follows:

II. Company Overview

Who is [company name].

[Company Name]is a new, independent book store focused staff-curated book selections. The cozy bookstore offers a book club, author events and children’s story hour.

[Company Name] was founded by [Founder’s Name]. While [Founder’s Name] has been in the book business for some time, it was in [month, date] that he decided to launch [Company Name]. Specifically, during this time, [Founder] took a trip to Fort Lauderdale, FL. During his trip, [Founder’s Name] frequented an independently-owned book store that enjoyed tremendous success. After several discussions with the owner of the store, [Founder’s Name] clearly understood that a similar business would enjoy significant success in his hometown.

Specifically the customer demographics and competitive situations in the Fort Lauderdale location and in [insert location here] were so similar that he knew it would work. Furthermore, after surveying the local population, this theory was proven.

[Company Name]’s History

Upon returning from Fort Lauderdale and surveying the local customer base, [Founder’s Name] incorporated [Company Name] as an S-Corporation on [date of incorporation].

[Founder’s Name] has selected three initial locations and is currently undergoing due diligence on each property and the local market to assess which will be the most desirable location for the store.

Since incorporation, the company has achieved the following milestones:

• Developed the company’s name, logo and website located at www…
• Determined the list of products to be offered
• Determined equipment and inventory requirements
• Identified 20 potential suppliers and received preliminary interest from them

[Company Name]’s Products

Below is [Company Name]’s initial list or product categories:

• Children’s Books
• Modern Fiction Books
• Historical Fiction Books
• True Crime Books
• Foreign Language Books
• Self-Help Books
• History & Art Books

The store will offer free gift wrapping service and sell gift certificates in any amount desired. Transactions will be completed by skilled salespeople on the floor of the store, who will offer a high level of customer service and develop ongoing relationships with customers.

Store Design

[Company Name] will develop a 5,000 square foot store whose key elements will include the following:

• Main Bookstore • Reading Nook • Storage Room • Check-Out Counter • Restrooms

The retail location has 20 dedicated parking spots which should suffice even in peak hours.

[Company Name] plans to be open 7 days a week, from 10 AM to 7 PM. As demand dictates, we may extend or reduce our hours.

III. Industry Analysis

[Company Name] directly or indirectly competes with all book stores nearby our store. Competition will come from department stores, specialty children’s stores, and discount mass retail stores. Direct competition will come from companies offering book selections similar to [Company Name].

Over the next five years, industry revenue is projected to increase an annualized 2% to $16.5 billion.

Key industry drivers include an increase in disposable income, leisure time and the increase in self-publishers.

IV. Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

[Company Name] will serve the residents of [company location] and the immediately surrounding areas.

The area residents we serve are affluent and are expected spend more on books per capita than the national averages.

The precise demographics of the town in which our retail location resides is as follows:

Customer Segmentation

We will primarily target the following three customer segments:

• Wealthy Parents
• Twenty and Thirty-Something
• Grandparents

V. Competitive Analysis

Direct & indirect competitors.

The following book stores are located within a 10-mile radius of [Company Name], thus providing either direct or indirect competition for customers:

Barnes & Noble Inc.

Barnes & Noble (B&N) is the leading book retailer in the United States, with over 640 stores across all 50 states and Washington, DC. The company offers trade books, paperbacks, e-books, e-readers, magazines, newspapers and other content across its distribution platform, which includes general retail book stores and an e-commerce website. Barnes & Noble also owns Sterling Publishing, a leading publisher of nonfiction books.

After spinning off its college bookstore segment in 2015, the company currently operates through its retail and NOOK segments. Its retail segment consists of both its 640 brick-and-mortar stores and the company’s website, bn.com. The website is one of the internet’s largest e-commerce sites, generating an estimated $886.0 million in 2015. The company’s NOOK segment includes the sale of the NOOK e-reader and revenue generated from e-books and other digital media through the company’s mobile platform. While the company’s retail segment accounts for an overwhelming majority of company revenue, the NOOK segment is used to compete with Amazon’s Kindle platform.

Books-A-Million

Founded in 1917, Books-A-Million is one of the leading chain book retailer in the United States. The company employs 5,500 full-time and part-time workers across its 250 locations. The retailer operates primarily in the Southeast United States through its traditional store and superstore formats. The company’s traditional stores are smaller and are often located in enclosed malls. Books-A-Million’s super stores, conversely, are standalone facilities that are larger and offer space for browsing, reading, shopping and various promotional events. Over the past five years, Books-A-Million has opened, closed and relocated a variety of stores to rescue struggling profit margins. Additionally, the company increasingly promotes its “Millionaire’s Club” loyalty program to attract repeat customers. These various restructuring attempts have caused the company’s revenue to fluctuate over the past five years. In 2016, company sales are expected to reach $452.9 million.

Powell’s Books

Founded in 1971 in Portland, OR, Powell’s Books is one of the top independent booksellers in the United States. The company revolutionized the book selling industry by offering both new and used hardcover and paperback titles on the same shelf. The store is immensely popular with both the local community and visiting patrons. With a selection of books in over 120 subject areas and 3,500 subsections, the store offers an expansive array of both bestselling authors along with less common niche titles. In 1994, the company launched its e-commerce site, and, within two years, its entire collection was available for purchase online. Contrary to the overall trend of the industry, this small company has thrived over the past five years.

Competitive Advantage

[Company Name] enjoys several advantages over its competitors. These advantages include:

• Book Lover Focus: [Company Name] will focus solely on book lovers, which is a fast-growing market segment by revenue. By focusing on book lovers, vs. the mass market, we are able to provide a personalized, meaningful shopping experience.
• Management: Our management team has years of book retail experience that allows us to sell to and serve customers in a much more sophisticated manner than our competitors.
• Relationships: Having lived in the community for 25 years, [Founder’s Name] knows all the local leaders and newspapers, as well as suppliers. As such, it will be relatively easy for us to build branding and awareness of our store.

VI. Marketing Plan

You can download our Bookstore business plan template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

The Marketing Plan describes the type of brand [Company Name] seeks to create and the Company’s planned promotions and pricing strategies.

The [Company Name] Brand

The [Company Name] brand will focus on the Company’s unique value proposition:

• Offering personalized, curated book selections in an intimate environment
• Rotating books to always offer the latest selections
• Providing excellent customer service

Promotions Strategy

[Company Name] expects its target market to be individuals living within a 10-mile radius of its store. The Company’s promotions strategy to reach these individuals includes:

Direct Mail

[Company Name] will blanket neighborhoods surrounding its locations with direct mail pieces. These pieces will offer discounts and/or provide other inducements for people to visit the store.

Public Relations

We will contact all local and area newspapers and television stations and send them a press release describing the opening and unique value proposition of [Company Name].

Advertising

[Company Name] will initially advertise in local newspapers and sponsor community events in order to gain awareness.

Ongoing Customer Communications

[Company Name] will maintain a website and publish a monthly email newsletter to tell customers about new events, products, and more.

Pre-Opening Events

Before opening the store, [Company Name] will organize pre-opening events designed for local merchants and press contacts to create buzz and awareness for [Company Name].

Pricing Strategy

[Company Name] pricing will be appropriate for the high quality and level of service associated with the store. Pricing will be on par with Barnes and Noble.

VII. Operations Plan

Functional roles.

In order to execute on [Company Name]’s business model, the Company needs to perform many functions including the following:

Administrative Functions

• General & administrative functions including legal, marketing, bookkeeping, etc.
• Sourcing suppliers and managing supplier relations
• Hiring and training staff

Retail Functions

• Customer service and check-out
• Gift wrapping
• Gift certificate program management
• Display rotation and design
• Janitor/maintenance personnel to keep the store clean

[Company Name] expects to achieve the following milestones in the following [] months:

VIII. Management Team

Management team members.

[Company Name]is led by [Founder’s Name] who has been in the book business for 20 years. While [Founder] has never run a retail store himself, he was an assistant manager at another book store previously. As such [Founder] has an in-depth knowledge of the book business including:

• Store operations and management
• Floor sales
• Display design
• Retail marketing
• Hiring and training workers
• Book trends

[Founder] has personal relationships with a variety of suppliers and authors.

[Founder] graduated from the University of ABC where he majored in Communications.

Hiring Plan

[Founder] will serve as the store manager. In order to launch the store, we need to hire the following personnel:

• Assistant Manager (Will handle much of store operations and manage store on [Founder]’s day’s off)
• Check-out and Floor Staff (3 to start)
• Part-Time Bookkeeper (will manage accounts payable, create statements, and execute other administrative functions)

IX. Financial Plan

Revenue and Cost Drivers

[Company Name]’s revenues will come from the sale of children’s clothing to customers.

The major costs for the company will be cost of goods sold (supplier costs), staff salaries, and rent for a prime location. In the initial years, the company’s marketing spend will be high, as it establishes itself in the market.

Capital Requirements and Use of Funds

[Company Name] is seeking a total funding of $330,000 to launch its store. The capital will be used for funding capital expenditures, manpower costs, marketing expenses and working capital.

Specifically, these funds will be used as follows:

• Store design/build: approximately $165,000
• Working capital: approximately $165,000 to pay for Marketing, salaries, and lease costs until [Company Name] reaches break-even

Key Assumptions & Forecasts

Below please find the key assumptions that went into the financial forecast and a summary of the financial projections over the next five years.

5 Year Annual Income Statement

5 Year Annual Balance Sheet

5 Year Annual Cash Flow Statement

Other Sector Templates

Bike Shop Business Plan Template

Brewery Business Plan Template & Example

Frozen Yogurt Business Plan Template

Business Plan Resources

Business Plan Examples

Business Plan Articles

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy