1. Research the Market – Make sure there is enough demand in your local area to support your business. Analyze competition, pricing, and potential customer base.
2. Develop a Business Plan – Establish goals, identify resources and develop strategies for achieving them.
3. Determine Your Business Structure – Decide whether you will be a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC) or corporation.
4. Choose a Location – Secure the most appropriate workplace for your upholstery business that is cost-effective and accessible to customers.
5. Obtain Licenses and Permits – Consult local authorities to determine the necessary licenses, permits and zoning laws for running an upholstery business.
6. Acquire Equipment – Purchase or lease the necessary equipment such as sewing machines, cutting tools, furniture frames and other tools needed for upholstering furniture.
7. Market Your Business – Advertise your upholstery business through email marketing, local newspapers, radio and television. Develop a website for online promotion.
8. Hire Employees – Depending on the size of your business, you may need to hire additional staff such as assistant designers, upholsterers, delivery personnel and office workers.
9. Set Prices – Develop a pricing strategy that reflects the quality and cost of materials, labor and overhead costs.
10. Keep Records – Setting up an accounting system is important to keep track of expenses, inventory and sales. Also document customer orders, payments and other business-related documentation.