Retail Expansion Checklist
Start using this Workflow
Market Analysis
Profile the trade-area demographics
Map local competition within the trade area
Score the location's economic and growth indicators
Decide whether to advance this market
Financial Planning
Build the new-store capex and opex budget
Forecast year-one sales and four-wall contribution
Secure financing for the build-out
Site Selection
Tour shortlisted sites with the broker
Pull traffic, co-tenancy, and visibility data
Submit the LOI on the chosen site
Negotiate and execute the lease
Legal and Compliance
File for the local business license and seller's permit
Confirm zoning, signage, and CO requirements
Confirm whether the store sells age-restricted product
Apply for state ABC, tobacco, or lottery permits
Post required labor-law and OSHA notices
Store Design and Merchandising
Adapt the prototype floor plan to the space
Confirm fixture package and order long-lead items
Build the opening planogram and allocation
Walk the visual set against the planogram
Hiring and Training
Post requisitions for store manager and key holders
Complete I-9 and E-Verify on every new hire
Run the new-store training program
Confirm openers are trained on alarm and safe
Marketing and Grand Opening
Build the local launch marketing plan
Launch geo-targeted ads and loyalty enrollment
Run the grand-opening event
Operations, IT, and Loss Prevention
Set up the POS, networking, and PCI scope
Stand up replenishment and OMS routing
Install CCTV, EAS, and alarm systems
Run a soft-open day to shake out the store
Sign off the new-store readiness review
