What You Need For a DIY Marketplace Stall
If you’ve ever wanted to start selling your handmade crafts or products at a local fair or community market, running a DIY marketplace stall can be a great way to get started.
However, if you have not done it before, setting up a stall to sell your products can be a daunting task that requires lots of planning and preparation.
It goes within saying that having the right tools and equipment can make all the difference to the success of your stall. So, in this article we will go over everything you need to know to set yours up effectively.
From essential items like tables and displays, to more advanced equipment like power generators and portable Eftpos machines, we’ll cover the basics of setting up a profitable DIY marketplace stall.
Rest assured, if you follow these guidelines, you’ll soon have a profitable venture on your hands.
DIY marketplace stall
Choose Your Products
The first step in setting up a DIY marketplace stall is to choose the products or services you want to sell.
It is worth taking the time to think about your target market and what types of products or services they might be interested in. You should also have a good look around other current marketplaces to see what is sold at them.
This will give you a good idea of the kind of products shoppers might be interested in. Once you have decided what you want to sell, be sure to offer a range of products to appeal to different tastes and preferences.
Get a Tent or Canopy
Having decided what you want to sell and where you want to sell it, the next stage is to set your stall up.
When doing this, a tent or canopy is essential for protecting you, your customers and products from the sun, wind, and rain.
It is worth choosing a bright coloured tent or canopy that fits in with your brand and will get you noticed. Try and ensure that the size is big enough to cover your entire stall. Also look for one that is lightweight, easy to set up, and comes with a carrying case.
Set up a Table or Display Stand
As well as the tent or canopy, you will also need a table or display stand to showcase your products.
You should choose a table or stand that is sturdy, easy to transport, and matches the style of your products. Additionally, try and find one that has or can incorporate multiple levels or shelves to maximize your display space.
Get a power generator
Having a power generator at your DIY marketplace stall can be incredibly useful for a number of reasons.
Firstly, it allows you to power any electrical equipment you may need, such as lighting, fans, a refrigeration system or a laptop. It also enables you to run an electronic payment system like an Eftpos machine.
Secondly, having a power generator can give you greater flexibility in terms of where you set up your stall.
The beauty of a generator is that you are not limited to locations with access to electrical outlets. Therefore, you can choose a spot that is more visible or convenient for customers.
Finally, a power generator can give you peace of mind in case of emergencies. If there is a power outage or other unforeseen event, you can rely on your generator to keep your stall operational and customers happy.
Add Signage
Signage is important for attracting customers and letting them know what you’re selling.
It is worth creating a sign or multiple signs for your stall which are eye-catching, easy to read, and match the style of your products.
Be sure to include your business name, logo, and a brief description of what you’re selling as well.
Often signs are the first thing a customer notices about a marketplace stall, so it is a good idea to have some attention-grabbing ones to increase your chances of being seen.
Payment Terminal
Whereas in the past, cash was king at marketplaces, in today’s world, cashless payment options are now the norm.
For this reason, Smartpay portable eft machines are a must-have for any marketplace stall.
Not only do they provide a convenient and safe way for customers to make payments, but they are also lightweight, easy to use and can connect to your phone or tablet.
Have a QR code
Having a QR code at your DIY marketplace stall can also be very useful.
Doing so can provide a quick and easy way for customers to access more information about your products or services.
Just by scanning the QR code with their smartphone, customers can be directed to your website or social media pages, where they can learn more about your business and offerings.
It could include ingredient information, where you source your materials or suggested ways of how best to operate and use your products.
Bring Business Cards
Business cards and sales and marketing literature are terrific ways to promote your business and connect with potential customers.
It is a good idea to have these on your stall to hand out to anyone who shows interest in your products or asks for more information.
Be sure to have your business name, logo, contact information, and a brief description of your products or services on your cards and literature.
You may even want to include some discount coupons that offer an incentive for customers to purchase your products later.
Bring Free Samples
Customers love free samples, so it is a good idea to showcase a few on your stall.
It will give customers a better idea of what you are selling and help them make a better purchasing decision.
In addition to the free samples, you may also want to run demonstrations of how your services work.
Bring Packaging and Bags
Packaging and bags are essential items for your customers as they not only influence a purchasing decision but also help them take what they bought back home.
Well-designed packaging that includes your business name and logo can also help to set customer expectations and strengthen your brand.
They also act as a form of advertising for your business, as other shoppers will notice your customers walking around with them.
Bring a First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is always a good idea for any marketplace stall because accidents can happen. So, it is important to be prepared for the worst.
Make sure your kit includes basic first aid items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers and is easy to get to when you need it.
Bring snacks
Running a marketplace stall usually involves working for quite a few hours.
For this reason, it is important to bring plenty of snacks and drinks with you to keep you going throughout the day.
Conclusion
Setting up a DIY marketplace stall requires a bit of planning and preparation, but with the right tools and equipment, it can be a great way to grow your business, connect with customers or simply make some extra cash.
If you are planning on running a stall together, it is important to choose products that appeal to your target market.
You should also protect yourself from the elements with a tent or canopy, display your products in a visually attractive way on a table or stand that includes signage and business cards, and offer samples and demonstrations.
Most importantly, be sure to bring a portable Eftpos machine with you to accept cashless payments. Doing this will ensure your customers have a convenient and secure way to buy your products.
While this might sound like quite an undertaking, don’t stress. If you follow the tips outlined above, you’ll be ready to set up a successful marketplace stall and make some money in no time!