sample business plan for a hardware store pdf

Starting Hardware Store Business Plan (PDF)

Starting a hardware store business is an incredibly lucrative venture, boasting robust profit margins and a constant demand for its products and services. As the backbone of any community’s building and repair needs, hardware stores serve as essential hubs where customers can find a wide range of tools, construction materials, and home improvement supplies. These stores are more than just places to purchase tools, supplies, and building materials—they are hubs of knowledge, expertise, and essential resources for homeowners, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts alike. In an era of rapid urban development and increasing home renovation projects, the hardware store industry remains resilient and holds significant growth potential.

It is projected that the 21 st century will continue to be characterized by concerted construction activities. That stems, in part, from the projected increase in the global population. Plus, regions that have had mostly archaic infrastructure are being upgraded. Governments and the private sector are stepping up property and infrastructure development projects. Overall, residential, commercial, and industrial domains are experiencing a construction boom. For instance, the most sought-after materials right now are concrete, steel, and wood. All these dynamics are creating a huge market for hardware supplies. Thus starting a hardware retail store is bound to be lucrative owing to the ever-expanding market.  This article will outline how to start the hardware store business, and the hardware store business plan – PDF, Word and Excel.

Market Research

Carrying out market research is essential before starting the hardware store business. Market research involves identifying a market for hardware products and services, including important measurable characteristics. Seek to find out the market size for hardware products and services. Whilst doing that find out the popular products or services being offered. Check out up to date hardware industry statistics to help you in those regards. There are usually major players already operating and you should study them. Find out what kind of hardware products and services they offer. Find out about the market shares they own and control. Take time to also evaluate their customer dynamics. All this will help you zone in on a strategic target market. That is why the other area to look into is consumer attributes. What are the general hardware buying habits of consumers in your intended target market? What do they buy, how often, and how much do they spend on average? What are their source of incomes and their average incomes? Whilst you can get ready-made reports on these details, it would be wise to also conduct surveys yourself. You can unearth more details this way. By putting all these together you get a comprehensive understanding of the market. You should ensure that you have a hardware business plan before you venture into this business.

Location And Premises for a Hardware Store

A significant percentage of the demand for hardware products and services stems from the construction industry. So you can identify a location at or near a steadily growing residential area where people are at various stages of constructing their houses. It isn’t enough to only look at the steady growth of such areas alone. These must be people who generally have substantial income levels such that they can afford to buy your products. So that shouldn’t be overlooked because you might regret it later if you don’t find out about it prior.

Your location must be spacious enough to have parking space that adequately accommodates any type of vehicle i.e. for customers and suppliers. The interior of the hardware complex will also have to be spacious with products well arranged in a way that optimizes customers’ buying experience. The road network surrounding or leading to the complex must be well networked and in good shape to promote ease of access for both vehicles and those walking in on foot. Your hardware store business plan should take into account the cost of purchasing or renting premises.

Permits/Licenses, Insurance & Business Bank Account

It depends on where you will be operating from but a hardware store business has to be licensed. In most cases it starts from the basic business or company registration that is mandatory. Then you will usually need a hardware store license. You will also have to be registered with the applicable revenue authority for tax purposes. Other types of permits or licenses might be needed depending on the nature of the hardware products or services you deal with. There are countless risk factors associated with running a hardware store. Your hardware store would need insurance cover for at least general liability, property, crime, and workers. You can get more comprehensive details from reputable insurance providers. In addition to all this you must open a business bank account for your hardware store. Desist from using your personal bank account for your hardware store operations. Having a dedicated business bank account streamlines taxation and bookkeeping. It also presents an authentic brand image. It shields you from business debt liability thus protecting your personal assets. In cases where you need to apply for funding it increases your chances of being considered. Costs of insurance and licenses should be included in your hardware store business plan.

Products for a Hardware Store Business

There’s a very broad range of hardware products that you can sell in your hardware store. Some of the broad categories are agricultural implements, tool sets, protective clothing, building materials, electrical items, plumbing supplies, ironwork materials. So the range of products you can sell is quite diverse e.g. cement, bricks, paint, steel rods (or bars), pipes, adhesives, timber products, door frames, window frames ceramics, various kinds of associated accessories, water reservoirs, glassware, safety shoes, nuts, bolts, nails, screws, work suits, various assortments of hand tools and so on.

Your product range can start relatively small and grow as you add more products informed by recurring customer needs. Earlier we discussed about doing market research because it greatly helps you in knowing what to put in stock. Obviously your hardware store business plan should include money for purchasing the hardware products. Usually as a business person you might be having financial challenges to startup the business so it would be important to know what’s in demand and start off with that.

Inventory Management

Inventory management (or inventory control) refers to the recording and tracking of hardware stock in your store.  Proper inventory management is key to having a profitable hardware store business. The goal is to maintain an optimum number or amount of all inventory items. You should be able to have in stock what a customer seeks. You should be able to detect in good time hardware items that need to be replenished. If this is not properly done it leads to disruptions in sales thus negatively affecting the profitability of your hardware store business. In this day and age you are better off using inventory management software than using manual approaches. The ideal setup is to have an electronic point of sale system or software (EPOS) for your hardware store business. An EPOS with an integrated inventory management function is the best.

Business Model

The business model is the fundamental framework that outlines how a hardware store operates, generates revenue, and creates value for its customers. In the hardware store industry, the most common business model involves the sale of a wide range of tools, building materials, hardware, and related products to both individual consumers and contractors. This model often relies on maintaining an extensive inventory of products to meet the diverse needs of customers. Revenue is primarily generated through the sale of these products, with profit margins varying based on the type of items sold.

To enhance profitability, hardware stores often adopt a mix of strategies. They may offer additional services such as tool rental, key cutting, paint mixing, or even repair services for certain tools and equipment. These supplementary services not only generate additional income but also create a more comprehensive customer experience, making the store a one-stop destination for various hardware-related needs.

In recent years, hardware stores have also embraced digital transformation by establishing an online presence. This allows customers to browse products, check inventory, and place orders online, which can significantly expand the store’s reach and customer base. Some hardware stores may also explore e-commerce as a complementary revenue stream, allowing them to tap into a broader market beyond their physical location. Overall, the hardware store business model continues to evolve to meet the changing needs and preferences of customers while remaining grounded in providing essential products and services for home improvement and construction projects.

Competitive Analysis

Competitive analysis is the assessment of the differences between your hardware store’s performance and that of its competitors. The goal is to detect and examine the factors that cause those differences. In essence you are studying your competition in order to outsmart them. What you unearth from competitive analysis informs your business strategy. Identify who your competitors are and segment them e.g. primary (major focus), secondary, and tertiary. Assess their place or stake in the market. Then do a comparison of what they offer and what you intend to offer. When doing competitive analysis for your hardware store business, you are not just assimilating information. The thrust is to identify market gaps which will be the openings you need. Lacking in skillsets and experience on the current players can be a market gap. You will also get to notice some outstanding pain points consumers still struggle with. Maybe there could be a hardware niche or niches that are underserved – those are market gaps. Regulatory and legislative aspects can also provide insights into market gaps. The marks of a well done competitive analysis will be you identifying market gaps.

Staff And Management

The effective running of a hardware business requires a significant workforce. As a rule of thumb staffing needs are always informed by your intended scale of operations. Some of the key areas in this business are operations management, supply chain management, financial management and inventory management. You’ll need cashiers/till operators, general hands, supervisors, shop attendants and customer attendants as some of the vital components of your operations management team.

The operations team will be central to overseeing the supply chain and inventory management aspects. You must understand that smooth flow of a hardware store business entails consistent monitoring and evaluation of stocks. There’s also a need for a seamless framework for timeous sourcing and receipt of stock from suppliers. Financial accounting is critically important for a hardware business so as to empirically keep track of all transactions.

A hardware shop business also draws more customers when it offers delivery services. Having marketing agents is also strategic because marketing needs serious attention in light of the existence of competitors. As you can see, synching and optimizing all these components together requires a strong and dedicated team. The top management will, depending on scale of operations, constitute of either qualified hired personnel or family members. The hardware business plan should include provisions of salaries for all your workforce.

The major causes of failure of hardware stores include poor financial management resulting in losses. No wonder financial accounting must be thoroughly done when running this business. It’s also encouraged that you conduct stock takes regularly, an exercise that’ll feed into your financial management efforts.

Marketing Plan

Digital marketing must be your biggest focus. Get a website developed for the business to have brand visibility online. Buttress this by setting up active social media accounts on Facebook, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, Instagram and Twitter. Leverage on those platforms’ features such as stories, reels, and status updates to daily send out brand awareness content. Take advantage of print (e.g. fliers, posters, banners) and digital (e.g. e-fliers) media for brand awareness. Aim at exhibiting or being at strategic events such as trade fairs, expos, and the like. Explore options to get featured in strategic publications such as blogs, newspapers, podcasts, radio shows, and so on. Come up with promotionals e.g. discounts. Institute a customer loyalty programme which will be instrumental in boosting word of mouth marketing. Engage social media influencers to tap into large pools of potential customers. Overall, strive to devote at least 5 percent of your revenue towards marketing initiatives. The hardware store business plan should include a proper marketing plan for your business.

Market for Hardware Products

There are several customer sources for a hardware shop. These include building and construction (both new constructing projects and renovations), Do It Yourself (DIY) projects, agriculture industry, electrical and plumbing projects, and maintenance work. Property owners carry out renovations, upgrades, repairs on their properties, and to do that they need hardware products.  Other potential customers for a hardware store business include construction companies, organisations, housing cooperatives, schools, private companies, individuals, farmers and the government.

Keys To Profitability

Starting a hardware store business can be a lucrative venture, but like any other business, success depends on various factors. To ensure profitability in your hardware store, it’s crucial to focus on a few key strategies. First and foremost, effective inventory management is essential. Maintaining the right balance of products, avoiding overstocking or understocking, and regularly reviewing your inventory can help reduce carrying costs and increase your bottom line. Additionally, understanding your target market and offering products that cater to their specific needs and preferences can set you apart from the competition and boost sales. Diversifying your product range is essential. Offering a diverse selection of products, including traditional hardware items, seasonal products, tools, gardening supplies, and home improvement materials, can attract a broader customer base and increase sales opportunities throughout the year. Cost control is another crucial aspect of profitability. Carefully monitor expenses and overhead costs, and regularly review your financial statements to identify areas where you can cut unnecessary spending. Negotiating favorable terms with suppliers, considering bulk purchasing for commonly sold items, can help you secure better pricing on products, increasing your profit margins.

An efficient store layout and visual merchandising are critical. Creating an organized and visually appealing store layout that makes it easy for customers to find what they need can encourage impulse purchases and boost overall sales. Proper signage and strategic product placement can further enhance the shopping experience. Provide exceptional customer service. Customers often return to stores where they receive personalized assistance, expert advice, and a pleasant shopping experience. Well-trained and knowledgeable staff can make a significant difference in customer satisfaction and loyalty. Embracing technology and modernizing your hardware store operations can contribute to profitability. Implementing point-of-sale systems, inventory management software, and an online presence can streamline processes, improve efficiency, and attract a wider customer base. Marketing and promotion are indispensable for drawing customers to your hardware store. Utilize a combination of traditional advertising methods, such as local newspapers and flyers, along with digital marketing techniques like social media, email campaigns, and a user-friendly website. Offering promotions, discounts, and loyalty programs can incentivize repeat business and increase revenue.

Advantages Of A Hardware Store Business

Starting a hardware store business offers several compelling advantages that make it a promising venture in the retail industry. First and foremost, hardware stores benefit from a steady and consistent demand for their products. Whether it’s for routine home maintenance, DIY projects, renovations, or construction work, people rely on hardware stores year-round, providing a reliable customer base that can help stabilize your store’s revenue over time. Providing excellent customer service and a well-stocked inventory can lead to repeat business. Many customers return to hardware stores for ongoing projects, maintenance, or additional supplies. Building a loyal customer base can contribute significantly to long-term success.

Another significant advantage is the diverse product range that hardware stores typically offer. From basic tools and fasteners to power equipment and building materials, these establishments cater to a broad spectrum of customers, including homeowners, contractors, do-it-yourself enthusiasts, and hobbyists. This diversity not only broadens your customer base but also increases sales opportunities, as customers often find a wide array of products under one roof, making their shopping experience more convenient. The business is also very profitable. While individual items may have lower profit margins, hardware stores often make up for it through the volume of sales. High inventory turnover and a consistent flow of customers results in healthy overall profit margins.

Additionally, hardware stores tend to be recession-resistant businesses. During economic downturns, people often prioritize home maintenance and smaller-scale improvement projects, rather than undertaking major renovations or new construction. This inclination toward more modest projects can lead to increased sales for hardware stores, making them relatively resilient in challenging economic times. This stability is a compelling advantage for entrepreneurs looking to invest in a business with long-term sustainability.

Why You Need A Hardware Store Business Plan

A business plan is instrumental in helping you comprehend the profitability of your hardware store business by providing a detailed financial analysis. It outlines the expected revenue streams, including sales projections, pricing strategies, and market demand analysis. Moreover, it delves into the various factors that impact profitability, such as operational costs, volumes sold and markup margins. By quantifying these variables and examining their interplay within the plan, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the financial landscape, enabling you to make informed decisions, identify potential areas for cost optimization, and ultimately enhance the profitability of your hardware store.

A business plan is also an essential tool for securing funding for your hardware store business. It serves as a detailed blueprint that demonstrates your business’s viability, growth potential, and financial projections to potential investors, lenders, or partners. A well-structured business plan showcases your understanding of the market, competition, and target audience, instilling confidence in financiers about the soundness of your venture. It provides a clear roadmap for how you intend to utilize the funding and achieve your business objectives, giving investors assurance that their investment will be wisely used. In essence, a business plan is your persuasive document that not only attracts financial support but also establishes a sense of trust and credibility, making it a vital tool in securing the funding needed to launch or expand your hardware store.

A comprehensive hardware store business plan is an indispensable asset for those embarking on or expanding their hardware store ventures. It provides clarity of vision, enabling you to define your store’s mission, vision, and objectives clearly. Articulating your business’s purpose and outlining your goals ensures that you and your team are on the same page, working towards a common vision. It also serves as a strategic roadmap, delineating the strategies and tactics essential for your hardware store’s growth and development. This roadmap helps in making informed decisions and acts as a reference point for measuring progress and making necessary adjustments in a dynamic market landscape.

Pre-Written Hardware Store Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel): Comprehensive Version, Short Funding/Bank Loan Version and Automated Financial Statements

For an in-depth analysis of the hardware store business, we encourage you to purchase our well-researched and comprehensive hardware business plan. We introduced the business plans after discovering that many were venturing into the hardware business without enough knowledge and understanding of how to run the business, lack of understanding of the financial side of the business, lack of understanding of : the industry, the risks involved , costs and profitability of the business; which often leads to disastrous losses.

The StartupBiz Global hardware shop business plan will make it easier for you to launch and run your hardware store business successfully, fully knowing what you are going into, and what’s needed to succeed in the business. It will be easier to plan and budget as you will be aware of all the costs involved in setting up and running the hardware business.

Uses of the Hardware Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel)

The hardware shop business plan can be used for many purposes including:

• Raising capital from investors/friends/relatives
• Applying for a bank loan
• Start-up guide to launch your hardware retail business
• As a hardware store business proposal
• Assessing profitability of the hardware business
• Finding a business partner
• Assessing the initial start-up costs so that you know how much to save
• Manual for current business owners to help in business and strategy formulation

Contents of the Hardware Store Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel)

The hardware business plan include, but not limited to:

• Industry Analysis
• Marketing Strategy
• Market Analysis
• Financial Statements (monthly cash flow projections, income statements, cash flow statements, balance sheets, break even analysis, payback period analysis, start-up costs, financial graphs, revenue and expenses, Bank Loan Amortization)
• Risk Analysis
• SWOT & PEST Analysis
• Operational Requirements
• Operational Strategy
• Why some people in the hardware business fail, so that you can avoid their mistakes
• Ways to raise capital to start your hardware store business

The hardware business plan package consists of 4 files

• Hardware Store Business Plan – PDF file (Comprehensive Version – 70 Pages)
• Hardware Shop Business Plan – Editable Word File (Comprehensive Version – 70 Pages)
• Hardware Store Business Plan Funding/Bank Loan Version- Editable Word File (Short version for applying for a loan/funding – 44 pages)
• Hardware Store Business Plan Automated Financial Statements – (Editable Excel File)

The business plan can be used in any country and can be easily edited. The financial statements are automated. This implies that you can change eg the percentage markup, salaries etc, and all the other financial statements will automatically adjust to reflect the change. 

Click below to download the Contents Page of the Hardware Store Business Plan (PDF)

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Get the Hardware Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel)

Click Buy Now  below to purchase using Paypal, Credit Card, or Debit Card. After you have purchased, you will immediately see the download link for the business plan package on the screen. You will also immediately get an email with the business plan download link. The Pre-written business plan package (PDF, Word, and Excel) costs $30 only!

If you want to purchase multiple business plans at once then click here: Business Plans Store.

The business plan package is a zipped compressed file containing the PDF, Word and Excel documents. To open the package after downloading it, just right click, and select Extract All. If you have any problems in downloading and opening the files, email us on [email protected] and we will assist you.

We wish you the best in your hardware store business! Check out our collection of business plans  , and more business ideas .

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Hardware Shop Business Plan

Planning to start a hardware store? The extensive marketplace and consistently rising demands make starting a hardware store a lucrative business venture.

Anyone can start a hardware shop, however, a business plan can help you raise funds and map out its scalability for prolific growth.

Need help writing a business plan for your hardware shop? You’re at the right place. Our hardware shop business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free hardware shop business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write A Hardware Shop Business Plan?

Writing a hardware shop business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

• Introduce your Business: Start your executive summary by briefly introducing your business to your readers.This section may include the name of your hardware shop, its location, when it was founded, the type of hardware shop (E.g., general hardware, electrical hardware, plumbing hardware, specialty hardware), etc.
• Market Opportunity: Summarize your market research, including market size, growth potential, and marketing trends. Highlight the opportunities in the market and how your business will fit in to fill the gap.
• Products & services: Highlight the products you offer your clients. The USPs and differentiators you offer are always a plus.For instance, you may include hardware tools, fittings, repair and maintenance as products and services and mention extensive collection, personal guidance, and tool rentals as some of your USPs.
• Marketing & Sales Strategies: Outline your sales and marketing strategies—what marketing platforms you use, how you plan on acquiring customers, etc.
• Financial Highlights: Briefly summarize your financial projections for the initial years of business operations. Include any capital or investment requirements, associated startup costs, projected revenues, and profit forecasts.
• Call to Action: Summarize your executive summary section with a clear CTA, for example, inviting angel investors to discuss the potential business investment.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your company. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

• Business Description: Describe your business in this section by providing all the basic information:
• General hardware store
• Specialty hardware store (automotive supplies, construction hardware, etc)
• Online hardware store
• Industrial hardware store
• Plumbing hardware store
• Electrical hardware store
• Describe the legal structure of your hardware store, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.
• Explain where your business is located and why you selected the place.
• Owners: List the names of your hardware store’s founders or owners. Describe what shares they own and their responsibilities for efficiently managing the business.
• Mission Statement: Summarize your business’ objective, core principles, and values in your mission statement. This statement needs to be memorable, clear, and brief.
• Business History: If you’re an established hardware store, briefly describe your business history, like—when it was founded, how it evolved over time, etc.Additionally, If you have received any awards or recognition for excellent work, describe them.
• Future Goals: It’s crucial to convey your aspirations and vision. Mention your short-term and long-term goals; they can be specific targets for revenue, market share, or expanding your services.

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

• Target market: Start this section by describing your target market. Define your ideal customer and explain what types of services they prefer. Creating a buyer persona will help you easily define your target market to your readers.For instance, homeowners, contractors, plumbers, and facility maintenance companies would be an ideal target audience for a plumbing hardware store.
• Market size and growth potential: Describe your market size and growth potential and whether you will target a niche or a much broader market.For instance, the US hardware stores industry was 34.2 billion dollars in 2022. It is very crucial for you to determine the segment of your target market and its growth potential.
• Competitive Analysis: Identify and analyze your direct and indirect competitors. Identify their strengths and weaknesses, and describe what differentiates your hardware store from them. Point out how you have a competitive edge in the market.
• Market Trends: Analyze emerging trends in the industry, such as technology disruptions, changes in customer behavior or preferences, etc. Explain how your business will cope with all the trends.For instance, smart plumbing fixtures have a booming market; explain how you plan on dealing with this potential growth opportunity.
• Regulatory Environment: List regulations and licensing requirements that may affect your hardware, such as business registration, license and permits, CPSA compliance, insurance, environmental regulations, state and federal regulations, etc.

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your hardware shop business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

• Building materials
• Plumbing materials
• Electrical material
• Safety and protective equipment
• Hardware and fasteners
• Services: Mention if your hardware store offers any niche-specific services to the customers.For instance, a plumbing hardware store would offer services like pipe cutting, pipe threading, fitting and assembly, maintenance and repair, etc.
• Quality measures: This section should explain how you maintain quality standards and consistently provide the highest quality service.This may include ensuring high-quality hardware tools, product testing, evaluation, and training and education of staff.
• Additional Services: Mention if your hardware store offers any additional services. You may include services like fittings, maintenance, customization, etc.

In short, this section of your hardware plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

• Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Define your business’s USPs depending on the market you serve, the equipment you use, and the unique services you provide. Identifying USPs will help you plan your marketing strategies.For example, extensive product selection, custom fittings, and repair and maintenance services could be some of the great USPs for plumbing hardware stores.
• Pricing Strategy: Describe your pricing strategy—how you plan to price your products in hardware stores and stay competitive in the local market. You can mention any introductory offers you plan on offering to attract new customers to your hardware store.
• Marketing Strategies: Discuss your marketing strategies to market your services. You may include some of these marketing strategies in your business plan—social media marketing, Google ads, brochures, email marketing, content marketing, and print marketing.
• Sales Strategies: Outline the strategies you’ll implement to maximize your sales. Your sales strategies may include direct sales calls, partnering with local plumbers, contractors, and trade professionals, offering referral programs, etc.
• Customer Retention: Describe your customer retention strategies and how you plan to execute them. For instance, introducing loyalty programs, service offers, discounts on annual membership, personalized service, etc.

Overall, this section of your hardware store business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your hardware shop, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

• Staffing & Training: Mention your hardware store’s staffing requirements, including the number of plumbing experts, sales associates, cashiers, and technicians. Include their qualifications, the training required, and the duties they will perform.
• Operational Process: Outline the processes and procedures you will use to run your hardware shop. Your operational processes may include inviting walk-ins, assisting customers, making sales, collection and payment, scheduling fittings, store maintenance, and order restocking.
• Equipment & Machinery: Include the list of equipment and machinery required for hardware, such as pipe cutters, pipe threaders, showroom displays, and fixtures, pressure testing equipment, cutting and measuring tools, office equipment, etc.Explain how these technologies help you maintain quality standards and improve the efficiency of your business operations.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your hardware shop’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

• Founders/CEO: Mention the founders and CEO of your hardware, and describe their roles and responsibilities in successfully running the business.
• Key managers: Introduce your management and key members of your team, and explain their roles and responsibilities.It should include, key executives(e.g. COO, CMO.), senior management, and other department managers (e.g. store manager, inventory manager.) involved in the hardware shop operations, including their education, professional background, and any relevant experience in the hardware industry.
• Organizational structure: Explain the organizational structure of your management team. Include the reporting line and decision-making hierarchy.
• Compensation Plan: Describe your compensation plan for the management and staff. Include their salaries, incentives, and other benefits.
• Advisors/Consultants: Mentioning advisors or consultants in your business plans adds credibility to your business idea.So, if you have any advisors or consultants, include them with their names and brief information consisting of roles and years of experience.

This section should describe the key personnel for your hardware store, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

• Profit & loss statement: Describe details such as projected revenue, operational costs, and service costs in your projected profit and loss statement . Make sure to include your business’s expected net profit or loss.
• Cash flow statement: The cash flow for the first few years of your operation should be estimated and described in this section. This may include billing invoices, payment receipts, loan payments, and any other cash flow statements.
• Balance Sheet: Create a projected balance sheet documenting your hardware shop’s assets, liabilities, and equity.
• Break-even point: Determine and mention your business’s break-even point—the point at which your business costs and revenue will be equal.This exercise will help you understand how much revenue you need to generate to sustain or be profitable.
• Financing Needs: Calculate costs associated with starting a hardware shop, and estimate your financing needs and how much capital you need to raise to operate your business. Be specific about your short-term and long-term financing requirements, such as investment capital or loans.

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the hardware industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your retail hardware store business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

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

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

This sample hardware shop business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful hardware plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our hardware shop business plan pdf .

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do you need a hardware shop business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful hardware shop. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your hardware store.

How to get funding for your hardware shop?

There are several ways to get funding for your hardware shop, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

• Bank loan – You may apply for a loan in government or private banks.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) loan – SBA loans and schemes are available at affordable interest rates, so check the eligibility criteria before applying for it.
• Crowdfunding – The process of supporting a project or business by getting a lot of people to invest in your business, usually online.
• Angel investors – Getting funds from angel investors is one of the most sought startup options.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

How do I write a good market analysis in a hardware shop business plan?

Market analysis is one of the key components of your business plan that requires deep research and a thorough understanding of your industry. We can categorize the process of writing a good market analysis section into the following steps:

• Stating the objective of your market analysis—e.g., investor funding.
• Industry study—market size, growth potential, market trends, etc.
• Identifying target market—based on user behavior and demographics
• Analyzing direct and indirect competitors.
• Calculating market share—understanding TAM, SAM, and SOM.
• Knowing regulations and restrictions
• Organizing data and writing the first draft.

Writing a marketing analysis section can be overwhelming, but using ChatGPT for market research can make things easier.

How detailed should the financial projections be in my hardware shop business plan?

The level of detail of the financial projections of your hardware shop may vary considering various business aspects like direct and indirect competition, pricing, and operational efficiency. However, your financial projections must be comprehensive enough to demonstrate a complete view of your financial performance.

Generally, the statements included in a business plan offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.

What key components should a hardware shop business plan include?

The following are the key components your hardware shop business plan must include:

• Executive summary
• Business Overview
• Market Analysis
• Products and services
• Sales and marketing strategies
• Operations plan
• Management team
• Financial plan

What's the importance of a marketing strategy in a hardware shop business plan?

Marketing strategy is a key component of your hardware shop business plan. Whether it is about achieving certain business goals or helping your investors understand your plan to maximize their return on investment—an impactful marketing strategy is the way to do it!

Here are a few pointers to help you understand the importance of having an impactful marketing strategy:

• It provides your business an edge over your competitors.
• It helps investors better understand your business and growth potential.
• It helps you develop products with the best profit potential.
• It helps you set accurate pricing for your products or services.

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

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Hardware Store Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business Plans » Wholesale & Retail

Are you about starting a hardware store? If YES, here is a complete sample hardware store business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE .

So we have considered all the requirements for starting a hardware store. We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample hardware store business marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for hardware stores. So let’s proceed to the business planning section .

If you are looking for a business to start as an entrepreneur and you know you have an interest in running a store, then you should consider starting your own hardware store business. Although you don’t need a college degree to establish your own hardware store, but you would need some form of informal training.

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It would help you to learn how to manage your own store. It is important to point out that hardware store business is one the businesses that can’t go out of fashion because of the role it plays in our society.  The startup capital for this type of business can be considered to be moderate.

As a matter of fact, you can start your own hardware store and then grow it big within a short period of time by reinvesting your profits back to the business. Below is a sample hardware store business plan template that will help you successfully write yours without much stress

A Sample Hardware Store Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

Stores in the Hardware Stores industry primarily retail a broad range of home renovation equipment and related supplies. Products such as hardware, plumbing, electrical and paint-related tools et al are the most commonly stocked goods you will likely find in a hardware store.

If you are a follower of happenings in the industry, you would have noticed that the industry has steadily improved over the five years to 2017. As the housing market has strengthened and consumer confidence has revived, individuals have started home improvement projects that had been put on hold during the recession.

Low mortgage rates during the period have also encouraged individuals to purchase and renovate new and existing homes. This flurry of construction activity has boosted demand for industry products from both contractors and do-it-yourself consumers. Going forward, revenue generated by the Hardware Stores industry is projected to grow at a slower rate.

The Hardware Stores Industry is indeed a large industry and pretty much active in all the countries of the world. Statistics have it that in the united states of America alone, there are about 19,935 registered and licensed hardware stores scattered all across the United States responsible for directly employing about 148,516 people and the industry rakes in a whooping sum of $24 billion annually.

The industry is projected to grow at 1.3 percent within 2011 and 2016. It is important to state that Ace Hardware, Do It Best and True Value Company have the largest chunk of the available market share in the industry. A recent report published by IBISWorld shows that the Hardware Stores industry has moderate barriers to entry.

The report further stated that high startup costs and the saturated nature of the market may deter new companies from entering the industry. Operators that plan to enter this industry need to consider the capital investment required to establish or purchase a store.

For example, to be eligible to join True Value Company, prospective operators must have a minimum of $150,000 unencumbered cash available for investment, while the total investment to open an Ace store ranges from $823,495 to $1,563,495, depending on store size and other variable factors. Of the total investment, $150,000 to $250,000 cash is needed.

The tough part as it relates to start-up costs most likely are the need to establish a supply of hardware and other related goods from wholesalers or directly from manufacturing companies. This is so because a hardware store business cannot be started without sourcing products for sale.

Regardless of moderate barriers to entry, the competitive nature of the industry makes it very difficult for new operators to break even within a short period of time in the industry.

Lastly, the Hardware Stores industry is pretty much open for aspiring entrepreneurs to launch their business. One good thing about hardware stores business is that the business can be opened in any part of the United States and if proper market survey and feasibility studies are conducted, then you can be rest assured of the profitability of the business.

2. Executive Summary

Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. is a standard hardware store that will be located in High Street, Short North Arts District, Columbus – Ohio.

We have been able to lease a facility that is big enough (a 4 thousand square foot facility) to fit into the design of the kind of standard hardware store that we intend launching and the facility is located in a corner piece along a major road close to one of the largest residential estates in Columbus – Ohio.

Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. will retail products such as hardware, tools, plumbing and electrical supplies, lawn, garden and farm supplies, paint and lumber and other building materials from different manufacturers in the United States and abroad. We are set to service a wide range of clientele in and around Columbus – Ohio.

We are aware that there are several large and small chains of hardware store outlets all around Columbus – Ohio, which is why we spent time and resources to conduct a thorough feasibility studies and market survey so as to be well positioned to favorably compete with all our competitors.

We have an online – service option for our customers, and our outlet is well secured with various payments of options. Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. will ensure that all our customers are given first class treatment whenever they visit our store.

We have a CRM software that will enable us manage a one on one relationship with our customers no matter how large our customer base may grow to. We will ensure that we get our customers involved in the selection of brands that will be in our store and also when making some business decisions that directly affects them.

Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. will at all times demonstrate her commitment to sustainability, both individually and as a firm by actively participating in our communities and integrating sustainable business practices wherever possible.

We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our customers’ needs precisely and completely whenever they patronize our products. Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. is a family business that is owned by Mike Mendez and his immediate family members.

Mike Mendez has a Diploma in Business Administration with over 5 years of experience in the retailing stores industry, working for some of the leading brands in the United States. Although the business is launching out with just one outlet in Columbus – Ohio, but there is a plan to open other outlets in major cities in the United States and Canada.

3. Our Products and Services

Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. is in the hardware stores industry to service a wide range of clients and of course to make profits, which is why we will go all the way to make available a wide range of hardware and other related products from top manufacturing brands in the United States and other countries of the world.

Our product offerings are listed below;

• Retailing hardware
• Retailing tools and equipment
• Retailing plumbing fixtures and fittings
• Retailing electrical supplies
• Retailing paint and supplies
• Retailing garden products and equipment

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to become one of the leading brands in the hardware stores industry in Columbus – Ohio and in other key cities in the United States of America and Canada.
• Our mission is to establish a world – class hardware store business that will make available a wide range of hardware and other related products from top manufacturing brands at affordable prices to the residents of Columbus – Ohio and other key cities in the United States of America and Canada where we intend opening chains of hardware retail stores.

Our Business Structure

Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. do not intend to start a hardware retail store business like the usual mom and pop business around the street corner; our intention of starting a hardware retail store business is to build a standard retail store outlet in Columbus – Ohio.

Although our hardware retail store business might not be as big as Ace Hardware, Do It Best and True Value Company et al, but will ensure that we put the right structures in place that will support the kind of growth that we have in mind while setting up the business.

We will ensure that we hire people that are qualified, honest, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stakeholders.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our senior management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of ten years or more. In view of that, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner)
• Store Manager
• Human Resources and Admin Manager

Merchandize Manager

Sales and Marketing Manager

Information Technologist

• Accountants / Cashiers
• Sales Agents / Customer Services Executive

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Grows management’s effectiveness by employing, selecting, orientating, preparation, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
• Accountable for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Accountable for providing direction for the business
• Builds, interconnects, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Accountable for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization

Admin and HR Manager

• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process.
• Carries out staff induction for new team members.
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees.
• Accountable for arranging travel, meetings and appointments.
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily office cum business activities.

Store Manager:

• Responsible for managing the daily activities in the store.
• Ensures that proper records of hardware and other related products are kept and the warehouse does not run out of products.
• Ensures that the store facility is in tip top shape and goods are properly arranged and easy to locate.
• Interfaces with third – party suppliers.
• Controls hardware distribution and supply chain inventory.
• Oversees the workforce in the hardware sales floor.
• Manages vendor relations, market visits, and the ongoing education and development of the organizations’ buying teams
• Helps to ensure consistent quality of hardware, tools, plumbing and electrical supplies, lawn, garden and farm supplies, paint and sundries and lumber and other building materials et al from different manufacturers are purchased and retailed in good price that will ensure we make good profit
• Accountable for planning sales, monitoring inventory, selecting the merchandise, and writing and pricing orders to vendors
• Manages external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Model demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer purchases
• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects.
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding sales
• Document all customer contact and information
• Represents the company in strategic meetings
• Helps to increase sales and growth for the company
• Manages the organization’s website
• Handles ecommerce aspect of the business
• Responsible for installing and maintenance of computer software and hardware for the organization
• Manages logistics and supply chain software, Web servers, e-commerce software and POS (point of sale) systems
• Manages the organization’s CCTV
• Handles any other technological and IT related duties.

Accountant/Cashier:

• Accountable for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• In control of financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the organization
• Serves as internal auditor for the organization

Client Service Executive

• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with customers on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to customers when they make enquiries
• Finds out the customer’s needs, recommend, select and help locate the right merchandise, describe a product’s features and benefits.
• make suggestions and encourage purchase of products
• Provides information about warranties, manufacturing specifications, care and maintenance of merchandise and delivery options
• Bags or packages purchases
• Responsible for cleaning all the products and the store facility at all times.
• Ensures that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock.
• Handles any other duty as assigned by the store manager.

6. SWOT Analysis

Our intention of starting just one outlet of our hardware retail store in Columbus – Ohio is to test run the business for a period of 3 to 5 years to know if we will invest more money, expand the business and then open other outlets all over major towns in Ohio and key cities in the United States.

We are quite aware that there are several hardware retail stores all over Charleston and even in the same location where we intend locating ours, which is why we are following the due process of establishing a business.

We know that if a proper SWOT analysis is conducted for our business, we will be able to position our business to maximize our strength, leverage on the opportunities that will be available to us, mitigate our risks and be equipped to confront our threats.

Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. employed the services of a Business Analyst with bias in retailing to help us conduct a thorough SWOT analysis and to help us create a Business model that will help us achieve our business goals and objectives. This is the summary of the SWOT analysis that was conducted for Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc.;

Ability to control stock on hand, experienced work force and having a loyal customer base are some of our core strength. So also, our location, the business model we will be operating, varieties of payment options, wide range of hardware and other related products from different manufacturing brand and our excellent customer service culture will definitely count as a plus for Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc.

A major weakness that may count against us is the fact that we are a new hardware retail store outlet in Columbus – Ohio and we don’t have the financial capacity to compete with multi – million dollars’ hardware retail store outlets like Ace Hardware, Do It Best and True Value Company and co when it comes to retailing at rock bottom prices.

• Opportunities:

The fact that we are going to be operating our hardware retail store in a corner piece property along a major road close to one of the largest residential estates in Columbus – Ohio provides us with unlimited opportunities to sell our hardware and other related products to a large number of individuals.

We have been able to conduct thorough feasibility studies and market survey and we know what our potential clients will be looking for when they visit our hardware store outlets.

Just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a new hardware store in same location where ours is located. So also, unfavorable government policies may also pose a threat to businesses such as ours.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

Recent trends in the hardware industry show that external competition has slightly dampened both industry revenue and profit growth.

Hardware stores have shifted business models to deal with heightened external competition and they will continue to be pressured by online retailers and larger home improvement stores. Experts projected that in 2017, the hardware stores industry is expected to profit from growing global economic conditions.

The hardware retail stores landscape has seen tremendous changes in the last 20 years; it has grown from the smaller outlets to a more organized and far reaching venture. The introduction of franchise and online store makes it easier for a hardware retailer to reach out to a larger market far beyond the areas where his physical store is located.

8. Our Target Market

Those who patronize hardware stores cut across all genders above 18 years with the financial means, and who own an apartment or office/business hence the target market for the hardware store business is all encompassing. In essence, your target market can’t be restricted to just a group of people but all those who reside in and around our store location.

In view of that, we have positioned our hardware retail store to service the residents of High Street, Short North Arts District, Columbus – Ohio and every other location where franchise cum outlets of our hardware retail stores will be located.

We have conducted our market research and feasibility studies and we have ideas of what our target market would be expecting from us. We are in business to retail a wide range of hardware and other related products to the following groups of people and corporate organizations;

• Construction and Real Estate Companies
• Banks, Insurance Companies and other related Financial Institutions
• Real Estate Owners, Developers, and Contractors
• The Government (Public works department)
• Schools (High Schools, Colleges and Universities)
• Sport Facilities
• Individuals and households

Our Competitive Advantage

A close study of the hardware stores industry reveals that the market has become much more intensely competitive over the last decade. As a matter of fact, you have to be highly creative, customer centric and proactive if you must survive in this industry.

We are aware of the stiff competition and we are well prepared to compete favorably with other leading stores in Columbus – Ohio and throughout the United States. Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. is launching a standard one stop hardware store that will indeed become the preferred choice of residents of Columbus – Ohio and every other location where our outlets will be opened.

One thing is certain; we will ensure that we have a wide range of hardware and other related products from leading manufacturers available in our store at all times. It will be difficult for customers to visit our store and not see the type of hardware they are looking for.

Our excellent customer service culture, online store, various payment options and highly secured facility will serve as a Competitive Advantage for us.

Lastly, our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category in the industry meaning that they will be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our aims and objectives.

We will also give good working conditions and commissions to freelance sales agents that we will recruit from time to time.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. is in business to retail a wide range of hardware and other related products to the residents of Columbus – Ohio.

We are in the hardware stores industry to maximize profit and we are going to go all the way out to ensure that we achieve or business goals and objectives. Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. will generate income by selling the following products;

10. Sales Forecast

When it comes to hardware retail stores, if your store is well stocked with various types of hardware and centrally positioned, you will always attract customers cum sales and that will sure translate to increase in revenue generation for the business.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in Columbus – Ohio and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income from the first six months of operation and grow the business and our clientele base.

We have been able to critically examine the hardware retail industry, we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projections are based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to startups in Columbus – Ohio.

Below are the sales projections for Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. it is based on the location of our business and other factors as it relates to hardware retail startups in the United States;

• First Fiscal Year: $250,000
• Second Fiscal Year: $450,000
• Third Fiscal Year: $750,000

N.B : This projection was done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor within our market space. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Before choosing a location for Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. we conducted a thorough market survey and feasibility studies in order for us to penetrate the available market. We have detailed information and data that we were able to utilize to structure our business to attract the number of customers we want to attract per time.

We hired experts who have good understanding of the hardware retail industry to help us develop marketing strategies that will help us achieve our business goal of winning a larger percentage of the available market in Columbus – Ohio.

In other to continue to be in business and grow, we must continue to sell the hardware and other related products that are available in our store which is why we will go all out to empower or sales and marketing team to deliver. In summary, Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. will adopt the following sales and marketing approach to win customers over;

• Open our store in a grand style with a party for all.
• Introduce our hardware store by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to residents, businesses and other key stakeholders in Columbus – Ohio.
• Ensure that we have a wide range of hardware and other related products from different brands at all times.
• Make use of attractive hand bills to create awareness and also to give direction to our store.
• Position our signage/flexi banners at strategic places around Columbus – Ohio
• Position our greeters to welcome and direct potential customers.
• Create a loyalty plan that will enable us reward our regular customers.
• Engage in roadshows within our neighborhood to create awareness for our hardware retail store.
• List our business and products on yellow pages ads (local directories).
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business.
• Engage in direct marketing and sales
• Encourage the use of Word of mouth marketing (referrals).
• Join local chambers of commerce and industries to network and market our products.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Despite the fact that our hardware retail store is well located, we will still go ahead to intensify publicity for the business. We are going to explore all available means to promote our hardware retail store.

Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. has a long-term plan of opening outlets in various locations all around Ohio and key cities in the United States and Canada which is why we will deliberately build our brand to be well accepted in Columbus – Ohio before venturing out.

As a matter of fact, our publicity and advertising strategy is not solely for winning customers over but to effectively communicate our brand. Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc.;

• Place adverts on community based newspapers, radio and TV stations.
• Encourage the use of word of mouth publicity from our loyal customers.
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Snapchat, Google+ and other platforms to promote our business.
• Ensure that we position our banners and billboards in strategic positions all around Columbus – Ohio.
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas in and around our neighborhood.
• Advertise our hardware retail store business in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site.
• Brand all our official cars and trucks and ensure that all our staff members and management staff wears our branded shirt or cap at regular intervals.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Aside from quality, pricing is one of the key factors that gives leverage to hardware retail stores, it is normal for consumers to go to places where they can get hardware and other related products at cheaper price.

In view of that, our prices will conform to what is obtainable in the industry but we will ensure that within the first 6 to 12 months, our products will be sold a little bit below the average price of various hardware stores in the United States of America.

We have put in place business strategies that will help us run on low profits for a period of 6 months; it is a way of encouraging people to buy into our brand.

• Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different customers prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will ensure that we abide by the financial rules and regulation of the United States of America.

Here are the payment options that Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. will make available to her clients;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via credit cards/Point of Sale Machines (POS Machines)
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via mobile money transfer
• Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our client make payment for our hardware and other related purchases without any stress on their part. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials to clients who may want to deposit cash or make online transfer for our products.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

From our market survey and feasibility studies, we have been able to come up with a detailed budget on achieving our aim of establishing a standard hardware shop in Columbus – Ohio and here are the key areas where we will spend our startup capital;

• The total fee for registering the business in the Unites States of America – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits as well as the accounting services (software, P.O.S machines and other software) – $3,300.
• Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. in the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $3,580.
• The cost for hiring business consultant – $2,500.
• Insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $2,400.
• The cost for payment of rent for 12 months at $1.76 per square feet in the total amount of $105,600.
• The cost for shop remodeling (construction of racks and shelves) – $20,000.
• Other start-up expenses including stationery ($500) and phone and utility deposits ( $2,500 ).
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000
• The cost for start-up inventory  – $350,000
• The cost for counter area equipment – $9,500
• The cost for store equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $13,750
• The cost of purchase and installation of CCTVs: $10,000
• The cost for the purchase of office furniture and gadgets (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound System, tables and chairs et al): $4,000.
• The cost of launching a website: $600
• The cost for our opening party: $7,000
• Miscellaneous: $10,000

We would need an estimate of $750,000 to successfully set up a standard hardware retail store in Columbus – Ohio.

Generating Funds/Startup Capital for Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc.

Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. is a private registered business that is solely owned and financed by Mike Mendez and his immediate family members. They do not intend to welcome any external business partner which is why he has decided to restrict the sourcing of the startup capital to 3 major sources.

These are the areas we intend generating our startup capital;

• Generate part of the startup capital from personal savings
• Source for soft loans from family members and friends
• Apply for loan from my Bank

N.B: We have been able to generate about $250,000 (Personal savings $200,000 and soft loan from family members $50,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $500,000 from our bank. All the papers and documents have been signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited with the amount.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the number of loyal customers that they have, the capacity and competence of their employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business, then it won’t be too long before the business closes shop.

One of our major goals of starting Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to retail our wide range of products such as hardware, tools, plumbing and electrical supplies, lawn, garden and farm supplies, paint and sundries and lumber and other building materials et al from different manufacturers (brands) a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are well prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

Mike Mendez® Hardware Stores, Inc. will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and retraining of our workforce is at the top burner.

We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List/Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Leasing of facility and remodeling the shop: In Progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Design and Printing of Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the needed furniture, racks, shelves, computers, electronic appliances, office appliances and CCTV: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party planning: In Progress
• Compilation of our list of products that will be available in our store: Completed
• Establishing business relationship with vendors – manufacturers and suppliers of hardware and other related products: In Progress

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Hardware Store Business Plan

Published Nov.25, 2023

Updated Sep.14, 2024

By: Jakub Babkins

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Table of Content

A hardware store is a retail business that sells tools, materials, and equipment for home improvement, construction, and maintenance projects. Hardware stores can cater to different segments of customers and can also offer services such as installation, repair, and consultation, as we explained in our Hardware Retail Franchise Business Plan .

What is the Business Plan for a Retail Hardware Store?

A business plan for a retail hardware store is a document that outlines the goals, strategies, and financial projections of a store that sells hardware products and supplies to customers. A business plan typically includes the following sections:

• Executive summary
• Company description
• Products and services
• Market analysis
• Competitive analysis
• Marketing and sales strategy 
• Management and organization
• Financial plan

Why Do You Need a Business Plan Sample for a Hardware Shop?

A hardware shop needs a business plan sample to outline its vision, goals, and strategies. It can show how the shop will operate, what products and services it will offer, and how it will reach its target market. A business plan sample, like a Computer Software Business Plan , can also demonstrate the financial viability of the shop and attract funding and support from various stakeholders. A business plan sample is a vital document for any hardware shop owner who wants to start or grow their business.

Here is an example of a retail hardware store business plan sample:

Executive Summary

Ace Hardware is a new hardware store that will be located in San Diego, California. Ace Hardware will operate as a sole proprietorship owned by Alex Hales, an experienced and certified hardware professional.

Ace Hardware will target residential and commercial customers in the San Diego area who are looking for a convenient, reliable, and friendly hardware store. Ace Hardware will focus on the following customer segments:

• DIY enthusiasts
• Contractors

Ace Hardware will require a total of $500,000 to start and operate the business. Ace Hardware is seeking a $300,000 loan from a reputable bank to finance the startup and operating costs of the business. The loan will be repaid in 5 years with an interest rate of 10%. Ace Hardware will also contribute $200,000 of the owner’s savings as equity.

Company Overview

Ace Hardware is a new hardware store that will be located on Main Street, San Diego, California. The store will occupy a 5,000-square-foot space in a busy and convenient shopping plaza, with ample parking and visibility. The store will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week.

Ace Hardware will be registered as a limited liability company (LLC) in the state of California and will comply with all the relevant federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The store will be owned and operated by Alex Hales, who will also serve as the manager and the chief executive officer (CEO) of the company. Alex Hales will own 100% of the company’s shares and will have complete control over the business decisions and operations.

Industry Analysis

The hardware store industry is a segment of the larger home improvement industry. It includes businesses that sell tools, materials, and equipment for home improvement, construction, and maintenance projects.

Here are some interesting market insights for DIY & Hardware Store in the United States:

• The global hardware market size amounts to $121.34 bn in 2023 and is expected to grow to $164.21 bn in 2027. (Source – The Business Research Company )
• The revenue generated in the DIY & Hardware Store market in 2023 amounts to $641.80 bn. (Source – Statista )
• It is projected that the hardware market will experience an annual growth rate of 2.63% from 2023 to 2028. (Source – Statista )

Customer Analysis

Ace Hardware’s target market is the home improvement market in San Diego, California. This market consists of customers who are looking for products and services for home improvement, construction, and maintenance projects. 

According to the US Census Bureau, there were 1,419,845 housing units in San Diego County in 2020, of which 56.4% were owner-occupied and 43.6% were renter-occupied. The median value of owner-occupied housing units was $632,000, and the median monthly rent was $1,647. The median household income was $85,507, and the per capita income was $38,923.

Ace Hardware’s customer segments are:

1. Residential customers

• These are homeowners or renters who are looking for products and services for their own home improvement, construction, and maintenance projects. 
• They have different levels of skills, budgets, and tastes and may seek advice, guidance, and assistance from hardware store staff. 
• They also value convenience, quality, and variety in their purchases. 

Ace Hardware will target residential customers who live or work within a 10-mile radius of the store location and who have a household income of $50,000 or more . Ace Hardware estimates that there are about 500,000 potential residential customers in this segment.

2. Commercial customers

• are contractors, builders, landscapers, decorators, and other professionals who are looking for products and services for their clients’ home improvement, construction, and maintenance projects. 
• They have specific requirements, standards, and deadlines and may seek reliability, efficiency, and flexibility from hardware store staff. 
• They also value price, quality, and availability in their purchases. 

Ace Hardware will target commercial customers who operate within a 20-mile radius of the store location and who have an annual revenue of $100,000 or more . Ace Hardware estimates that there are about 10,000 potential commercial customers in this segment.

Competitive Analysis

ABC Hardware faces competition from other hardware stores in the area, such as:

• Home Depot – Home Depot is the largest home improvement retailer in the US, with over 2,300 stores nationwide, including 20 stores in San Diego County. Home Depot offers a wide range of products and services for home improvement, construction, and maintenance projects. Home Depot’s strengths include its large scale, brand recognition, loyal customer base, and online presence. Home Depot’s weaknesses include its high operating costs, low customer service, and generic product selection.
• Lowe’s – Lowe’s is the second largest home improvement retailer in the US, with over 1,700 stores nationwide, including 15 stores in San Diego County. Lowe’s offers a similar range of products and services as Home Depot but with a focus on home decoration and design. Lowe’s strengths include its brand recognition, loyal customer base, and online presence. Lowe’s weaknesses include its high operating costs, low customer service, and generic product selection.
• Menards – Menards is the third largest home improvement retailer in the US, with over 300 stores in 15 states, including 5 stores in California. Menards offers a similar range of products and services as Home Depot and Lowe’s but with a focus on price and value. Menards’ strengths include its low prices, loyal customer base, and online presence. Menards’ weaknesses include its limited geographic coverage, low customer service, and generic product selection.

ABC Hardware assesses and rates its competitive advantages and disadvantages based on a 1-5 scale rating. ABC Hardware’s competitive advantages and disadvantages are as follows:

Marketing Plan

ABC Hardware’s marketing objectives and goals are to:

• Increase the brand awareness and recognition of ABC Hardware in the local market and online platforms
• Attract and retain at least 1,000 loyal customers by the end of the first year
• Achieve a monthly sales revenue of $100,000 by the end of the first year
• Increase the customer engagement and loyalty by 10% by the end of the first year
• Generate at least 100 referrals and word-of-mouth per month by the end of the first year

ABC Hardware’s marketing mix is based on the following four Ps:

• Product – ABC Hardware offers high-quality tools, materials, and equipment for home improvement, construction, and maintenance projects at affordable prices. ABC Hardware also offers installation, repair, and consultation services to its customers.
• Price – ABC Hardware sets its prices based on the cost-plus pricing strategy, which adds a markup percentage to the cost of the products and services. ABC Hardware’s markup percentage is 30%, which covers its overhead and profit margin.
• Place – ABC Hardware sells its products and services through its physical store and its online store. The physical store is located in a busy and central area with high foot traffic and visibility. The online store is accessible through its website, which is user-friendly, secure, and responsive.
• Promotion – ABC Hardware uses a combination of online and offline channels to promote its brand, products, and services to its target customers.

ABC Hardware’s marketing budget and allocation are based on the following assumptions and estimates:

• ABC Hardware allocates 10% of its monthly sales revenue to its marketing budget
• ABC Hardware spends 60% of its marketing budget on online channels and 40% on offline channels
• ABC Hardware tracks and measures the return on investment (ROI) and cost per acquisition (CPA) of each marketing channel

ABC Hardware’s marketing budget and allocation for the first year are represented in the following chart:

Operations Plan

ABC Hardware’s operations plan covers the following aspects of its business:

• Location – The store location is 123 Main Street, Los Angeles, CA 90001, which is a busy and central area with high foot traffic and visibility. It is close to its target customers, has low rent and utilities costs, and has ample parking space and public transportation access.
• Size – The store has a size of 5,000 square feet, which is enough to accommodate its products, services, staff, and customers. ABC Hardware plans to expand its store size to 10,000 square feet by the end of the third year.
• Layout – The store is divided into four main sections: tools, materials, equipment, and services. ABC Hardware also has a checkout counter, a customer service desk, a storage room, and a restroom.
• Inventory management – ABC Hardware uses a barcode scanner and a point-of-sale (POS) system to record and monitor sales and inventory transactions. ABC Hardware also uses a software program and a database to analyze and forecast inventory levels and trends. Refer to our SaaS Business Plan for a better understanding.
• Procurement – ABC Hardware sources its products and services from reliable and reputable suppliers and vendors. ABC Hardware has established long-term and mutually beneficial relationships with its suppliers and vendors.
• Barcode scanner
• Security camera
• Alarm system
• Fire extinguisher

Organization and Management

Ace Hardware will have a simple and flat organizational structure, where the owner and manager will have direct and close supervision and communication with the staff. The organizational structure will consist of the following positions:

• Owner and Manager – Alex Hales, the owner, manager, and CEO of the store, will oversee all aspects of the business, from planning and budgeting to hiring and reporting. He has a business degree and 10 years of experience in the hardware store industry.
• Sales Staff – 10 sales staff will be hired to assist and serve the customers, as well as sell and provide various services on the sales floor. They will have 2 years of experience and a high school diploma and will work in shifts of 5 under the owner and manager.
• Cashier Staff – 3 cashier staff will be hired who will process and complete the transactions, as well as perform checkout and customer service tasks. They will have 1 year of experience and a high school diploma and will work in shifts of 2 or 3 under the owner and manager.

Financial Plan

Startup costs.

Ace Hardware will require a total of $500,000 to start and operate the business. The startup costs will include the purchase of inventory, equipment, fixtures, signage, and leasehold improvements, as well as the initial marketing, legal, and administrative expenses. The breakdown of the startup costs is as follows:

Operating Costs

Ace Hardware will incur monthly operating costs to run and operate the business. The operating costs will include the rent, utilities, payroll, taxes, insurance, and maintenance expenses. The breakdown of the operating costs is as follows:

Ace Hardware will generate revenue from the sale of products and services, such as paint, plumbing, electrical, gardening, hardware, lumber, cutting, installation, repair, and delivery. Ace Hardware will use the following assumptions to project its revenue:

• Average sale per customer: $50
• Average number of customers per day: 100
• Average number of days per month: 30
• Average revenue per month: $50 x 100 x 30 = $150,000
• Average revenue growth rate per year: 10%

Based on these assumptions, Ace Hardware projects to generate $1.2 million in sales revenue in the first year, $1.8 million in the second year, and $2.4 million in the third year.

Break-Even Analysis

Ace Hardware expects to achieve break-even in the first year of operation, where its total revenue will equal its total costs. Ace Hardware will use the following formula to calculate its break-even point:

Break-Even Point = Fixed Costs / (Revenue per Unit – Variable Cost per Unit)

• Fixed Costs: $32,000 per month, or $384,000 per year.
• Revenue per Unit: $50 per unit.
• Variable Cost per Unit: $25, or 50% of the revenue per unit.

Based on these figures, Ace Hardware’s break-even point will be:

• Break-Even Point = $384,000 / ($50 – $25) = 15,360 units
• Break-Even Point in Sales = 15,360 x $50 = $768,000

This means that Ace Hardware will need to sell 15,360 units or generate $768,000 in sales revenue to cover its costs and break even.

Cash Flow Statement

Income Statement

Balance Sheet

Why Choose OGSCapital for Your Hardware Store Business Plan?

At OGSCapital, we are the leading provider of business plan services for businesses of all sizes. We have a team of senior business experts with 15+ years of experience in 45 industries who can create customized and unique business plans that meet the highest standards of quality, professionalism, and effectiveness. We also offer comprehensive and in-depth market research, fast and reliable results, a proven track record of success, and access to a wide network of contacts. For reference, check our Computer Repair Business Plan .

Contact us today and get a free consultation from one of our business plan experts. We will help you achieve your business goals and become a market leader.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a hardware shop profitable.

Hardware shop business is profitable in the US, as it sells essential tools and materials for home improvement and construction projects. The profit margin in hardware stores in the US is estimated to be around 15% to 30%, depending on the type and category of products sold. Check our iPhone Repair Business Plan here.

How do I start a hardware business?

To open a hardware store business, you need to conduct market research, write a hardware business plan, choose a suitable location, obtain the necessary licenses and permits, source your products, hire and train your staff, promote your business, and provide quality products and services.

How do I write a business plan for a hardware store?

A small hardware store business plan is a document that describes the details and objectives of your business and how you plan to achieve them. It should include the sections of executive summary, market analysis, products and services, marketing plan, operational plan, financials, and appendix. Refer to our Web Hosting Business Plan to learn more.

What is the business category of a hardware store?

A hardware store is a type of retail store that sells a variety of tools, materials, and supplies for home improvement, construction, gardening, and other activities. Hardware stores are usually classified under the NAICS Code 444130, SIC Code 5251, and Business Activity Code 444000.

OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rated document, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

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