AboutLee Lister Expertise If you are a serious entrepreneur and want to set up your own business or ensure that your existing business is more profitable then let me assist you. I answer questions on business start up, business strategy, business models, business planning, marketing plans, marketing strategy, branding, business tune ups and business improvement. I do not answer any legal or accountancy questions - you should see your own professional adviser about these. If you cannot be bothered to read and rate my answers - I can't be bothered to answer yours!!
Experience Over 20 year’s management, IT and business consultancy experience with businesses large and small as well as being a serial entrepreneur. Business Planning business via www.bizguru.us www.BusinessPlanningPros.com and www.businessplannow.com
Publications A prolific writer and published author, I write on entrepreneurship, project management, bid management and career improvement.
Education/Credentials BA (Hons) Financial Economics
Several Management Qualifications
Question I live in a small town and am trying to start a dog boarding/dog park, the problem I am having is my business would be the first on town I am having difficulty seeing if there is a demand for it, what do you suggest for research?
Thank You
Melissa
Answer Hello Melissa
There are several ways you can do this - I suggest that you try all of them.
1)Go to the local vets and ask them. If you have more than one vet - that is a good indication that there are numerous animals that need homing during vacations.
2)Go where the dogs get walked - the park, beach etc and ask the dog walkers. Take some leaflets with you to hand out giving details of the service you will be starting.
3) Put an advert in your local paper or magazine. People always book ahead of time. Your reply will give you an idea and if you start the business you have wasted nothing and if you don't start a business you have saved a costly mistake. Adverts take some time to get results so be patient. You might put in a yellow pages advert if it is that time of the year.
You will need to know what size of kennels you will need and this will help you. In a small area you might also look at a cattery and small animal enclosure as well.
Sometimes the first in a small town is the profitable one so do your research and good luck.
