Pop Up Shop Business Plan [Sample Template]

A pop-up shop is a temporary retail space that is established for a short period of time, typically ranging from a few days to several months. It “pops up” in a location and then disappears after the predetermined period. Pop-up shops have gained popularity in recent years as a creative and flexible approach to retail.

Pop-up shops are often used by businesses to create a unique and engaging shopping experience, generate buzz and excitement around a brand or product, test new markets or locations, or take advantage of a specific event or season. They can be set up in various locations, such as vacant storefronts, shopping malls, markets, or even mobile setups like trucks or tents.

Pop-up shops can sell a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, electronics, cosmetics, art, food and beverages, and more. They often incorporate unique and eye-catching visual merchandising, interactive displays, and immersive experiences to attract customers and make a lasting impression.

Steps on How to Write a Pop-Up Shop Business Plan

1. Executive Summary

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. is an innovative retail business that specializes in creating unique and captivating shopping experiences through temporary pop-up shops. Our company aims to establish a strong presence in the vibrant city of Miami, Florida, where there is a thriving market for creative retail concepts.

We are set to offer customers an immersive and exciting shopping experience that goes beyond the traditional brick-and-mortar store. By leveraging the power of pop-up shops, we aim to generate buzz, build brand awareness, and foster a strong connection with our target audience.

Our strategic location in Miami will enable us to tap into the city’s diverse and fashion-forward population, as well as attract tourists and visitors looking for distinctive retail offerings.

Through our commitment to innovation, adaptability, and a customer-centric approach, we aim to create a lasting legacy in the pop-up industry, inspiring both our customers and industry peers. We envision a future where Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. is synonymous with unforgettable retail experiences and serves as a launchpad for emerging brands and concepts.

2. Company Profile

a. Our Products and Services

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. will feature a carefully curated selection of fashion apparel, accessories, and lifestyle products from emerging designers, local artisans, and popular brands. Our product offerings will cater to diverse tastes and provide a blend of quality, style, and exclusivity.

b. Nature of the Business

The nature of a pop-up business is temporary and transient. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar stores, pop-up businesses are designed to exist for a short period of time in a specific location and then close or move on to a different location.

c. The Industry

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. will operate in the retail industry.

d. Mission Statement

At Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc., our mission is to revolutionize the pop-up retail experience by offering a captivating fusion of creativity, innovation, and exceptional customer service. We strive to curate unique and immersive pop-up shops that leave a lasting impression on our customers while showcasing a diverse range of products that inspire and delight.

e. Vision Statement

Our vision at Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. is to become a trailblazer in the pop-up retail industry, known for our cutting-edge concepts, unparalleled customer experiences, and the ability to transform any space into a vibrant retail destination.

We envision ourselves as a catalyst for brand collaborations, creative partnerships, and market expansion, setting new standards and redefining the boundaries of temporary retail experiences.

f. Our Tagline (Slogan)

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. – “Fostering a culture of exploration, excitement, and inspiration that captivates our customers and empowers our partners”

g. Legal Structure of the Business (LLC, C Corp, S Corp, LLP)

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. will be formed as a Limited Liability Company (LLC).

h. Our Organizational Structure

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner)
• Shop Manager
• Cashier (Accountant)
• Sales Assistant
• Cleaners

i. Ownership/Shareholder Structure and Board Members

• Shelly Hulk (Owner and Chairman/Chief Executive Officer) 52 Percent Shares
• Edison Hadaway (Board Member) 18 Percent Shares
• Bob Jefferson (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
• Raph McMillian (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
• Sharon George (Board Member and Sectary) 10 Percent Shares.

3. SWOT Analysis

a. Strength

• Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. offers a unique and immersive pop-up retail experience, setting itself apart from traditional retail establishments.
• The company excels in creating visually appealing displays and engaging environments that capture the attention of customers and leave a lasting impression.
• Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. has established strong collaborations with local artists, designers, and influencers, enhancing the brand’s appeal and expanding its network.
• The company prioritizes exceptional customer service, aiming to create a personalized and memorable shopping experience for each customer.

b. Weakness

• The temporary nature of pop-up shops can limit the time available to generate sales and build a loyal customer base.
• The success of pop-up shops relies heavily on the choice of location. Finding prime and high-traffic locations for each pop-up can be a challenge.
• As a relatively new company, Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. may face challenges in building brand awareness and establishing itself as a go-to destination for pop-up retail experiences.

c. Opportunities

• The pop-up retail industry is growing, providing opportunities to expand into new markets and attract a broader customer base.
• Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. can leverage seasonal events, festivals, or cultural celebrations to create themed pop-up shops and capitalize on increased foot traffic.
• Developing an online presence and incorporating e-commerce capabilities can enable the company to reach customers beyond the physical pop-up shops and extend the brand’s reach.

i. How Big is the Industry?

The pop-up shop industry is a small segment of the retail industry, but it is important to note that pop-up shops can be found in various countries and regions across the globe. From bustling urban centers to smaller towns and even online platforms, the industry has expanded its reach and attracted businesses from different sectors.

ii. Is the Industry Growing or Declining?

Yes, the pop-up shop business line of business is a growing business. Major cities worldwide, including New York, London, Paris, and Tokyo, have witnessed a surge in the number of pop-up shops, indicating a growing demand for unique retail experiences.

iii. What are the Future Trends in the Industry?

The pop-up shop industry continues to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics. Several future trends are shaping the direction of the industry

Pop-up shops are likely to integrate digital and physical elements to create hybrid experiences. This could involve incorporating augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) technologies, interactive displays, or digital platforms to enhance customer engagement and extend the reach of pop-up experiences beyond physical locations.

With increased consumer awareness and demand for sustainable and ethically sourced products, the pop-up shop industry is expected to align with these values. Pop-ups may focus on showcasing eco-friendly brands, promoting upcycling or recycling initiatives, and incorporating sustainable materials and practices into their setups.

Mobile pop-up shops, such as food trucks or mobile boutiques, are gaining popularity. Additionally, collaboration between multiple pop-up shops or between pop-ups and established businesses (such as hotels, galleries, or event venues) can create unique partnerships and shared spaces, maximizing the potential of both parties.

iv. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry?

Yes, there are various existing niches for a pop-up shop business. Pop-up shops thrive in unique and specialized market segments. Here are some examples of niche pop-up shop ideas:

• Art and design
• Fashion and accessories
• Health and wellness
• Beauty and cosmetics
• Food and beverages
• Technology and gadgets
• Books and Literature
• Pop culture and fandom
• Sustainable and eco-friendly
• Local and artisanal products.

v. Can You Sell a Franchise of Your Business in the Future?

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. has plans to sell franchises in the nearest future and we will target major cities with thriving markets in the United States of America.

d. Threats

• The pop-up retail industry is becoming more popular, and competition from other pop-up shops and traditional retail stores can pose a challenge.
• Economic downturns or fluctuations can impact consumer spending habits, potentially affecting the success and profitability of pop-up shops.
• Compliance with local regulations, obtaining necessary permits, and navigating legal requirements can present obstacles for pop-up shop operations.

i. Who are the Major Competitors?

The major competitors for a pop-up shop business can vary depending on the industry, location, and target market. Here are some potential competitors you may encounter:

• Other pop-up shops
• Traditional brick-and-mortar stores
• Online retailers
• Established brands
• Events and festivals
• Local markets and fairs
• Online marketplaces and flash sale websites.

ii. Is There a Franchise for Pop up Shop Businesses? If YES, List at least 20 of them and their cost

No, there are no franchise opportunities for pop-up shop businesses.

iii. Are There Policies, Regulations, or Zoning Laws Affecting Pop up Shops?

Yes, there are county and state regulations as well as zoning laws that may apply to pop-up shop businesses in the United States. The specific regulations and laws can vary depending on the location and jurisdiction.

If your pop-up shop is set up as part of a temporary event or fair, additional permits or agreements may be necessary. These may include agreements with event organizers, health and safety inspections, insurance requirements, and compliance with event-specific regulations.

There may be regulations governing signage size, placement, and content. Restrictions on outdoor banners, sandwich boards, or temporary signs may exist, and adherence to these regulations is important for maintaining compliance.

Pop-up shop businesses are generally required to register for sales tax purposes and collect and remit sales tax on applicable sales. This requirement varies by state, so it’s important to understand the specific obligations in your jurisdiction.

To ensure compliance with regulations and zoning laws, it is advisable to consult with local government authorities, such as city planning departments or licensing offices, or seek legal advice to understand the specific requirements and processes for operating a pop-up shop in your desired location.

4. Marketing Plan

a. Who is your Target Audience?

i. Age Range

Our target audience primarily falls within the age range of 18 to 40. This demographic represents individuals who are fashion-conscious, open to new experiences, and actively engage in retail trends.

ii. Level of Education

Our target audience consists of individuals with diverse educational backgrounds. We cater to customers who value creativity, innovation, and unique retail experiences, regardless of their educational level.

iii. Income Level

Our target audience includes individuals with varying income levels. While we aim to offer products that cater to different budget ranges, our focus is on attracting customers who prioritize quality, style, and the overall experience rather than solely price-conscious consumers.

iv. Ethnicity

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. embraces diversity and aims to appeal to customers of various ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. Our offerings are designed to be inclusive and appealing to a wide range of individuals.

v. Language

We cater to customers who primarily communicate in English, as it is the primary language of communication in our pop-up shop locations. However, we welcome customers of various language backgrounds and strive to provide a welcoming and accommodating environment.

vi. Geographical Location

Our initial focus is on targeting customers in urban areas, particularly in fashion-forward cities and regions. While our pop-up shops can be located in different geographic locations, we aim to capture the attention of customers in areas known for their vibrant and diverse retail scenes.

vii. Lifestyle

Our target audience consists of individuals who appreciate creativity, style, and unique retail experiences. They value the exploration of new trends, seek personal expression through fashion and lifestyle choices, and are open to discovering emerging brands and concepts.

b. Advertising and Promotion Strategies

• Deliberately Brand All Our Vans and Trucks.
• Tap Into Text Marketing.
• Make Use of Bill Boards.
• Share Your Events in Local Groups and Pages.
• Turn Your Social Media Channels into a Resource
• Develop Your Business Directory Profiles
• Build Relationships with players in different industries.

i. Traditional Marketing Strategies

• Marketing through Direct Mail.
• Print Media Marketing – Newspapers & Magazines.
• Broadcast Marketing -Television & Radio Channels.
• OOH Marketing – Public Transit like Buses and Trains, Billboards, Street shows, and Cabs.
• Leverage direct sales, direct mail (postcards, brochures, letters, fliers), tradeshows, print advertising (magazines, newspapers, coupon books, billboards), referral (also known as word-of-mouth marketing), radio, and television.

ii. Digital Marketing Strategies

• Social Media Marketing Platforms.
• Influencer Marketing.
• Email Marketing.
• Content Marketing.
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Marketing.
• Affiliate Marketing
• Mobile Marketing.

iii. Social Media Marketing Plan

• Start using chatbots.
• Create a personalized experience for our customers.
• Create an efficient content marketing strategy.
• Create a community for our target market and potential target market.
• Gear up our profiles with a diverse content strategy.
• Use brand advocates.
• Create profiles on relevant social media channels.
• Run cross-channel campaigns.

c. Pricing Strategy

When working out our pricing strategy, Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. will make sure it covers profits, insurance, premium, license, and economy or value and full package. In all our pricing strategy will reflect:

• Penetration Pricing
• Cost-Based Pricing
• Value-Based Pricing
• Competition-Based Pricing.

5. Sales and Distribution Plan

a. Sales Channels

Our channel sales strategy will involve using partners and third parties—such as referral partners, affiliate partners, strategic alliances in the entertainment industry and freelancers help refer customers to us.

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. will also leverage the 4 Ps of marketing which are place, price, product, and promotion. By carefully integrating all these marketing strategies into a marketing mix, we can have a visible, in-demand service that is competitively priced and promoted to our customers.

b. Inventory Strategy

As a pop-up shop, Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. requires a well-planned inventory strategy to ensure optimal product availability, customer satisfaction, and profitability during the limited duration of each pop-up.

We will curate a selection of products that align with the target audience’s preferences and reflect the brand’s unique identity. Focus on offering a range of high-quality, trendy, and desirable products that generate excitement and drive customer engagement.

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. will make sure we work with “Just-in-time (JIT) inventory” – (JIT involves holding as little stock as possible, negating the costs and risks involved with keeping a large amount of stock on hand.)

c. Payment Options for Customers

• Bank Transfers
• Credit or Debit Card
• Cash
• Checks
• Electronic Payment Systems such as PayPal or Venmo.

d. Return Policy, Incentives, and Guarantees

At Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc., will be offering a return policy, incentives, and guarantees to build trust and loyalty with your customers. We will make sure the policy is clearly communicated on our website and in-store signage, and provide instructions for customers to initiate a return.

Return Policy:

• Customers can return products within 3 days from the date of purchase, subject to certain conditions.
• Products must be returned in their original condition, unused, and with all original tags, labels, and packaging intact.
• Customers are required to provide valid proof of purchase, such as a receipt or order confirmation, for returns to be processed.
• Customers may choose to receive a refund for the returned product or exchange it for an alternative product, subject to availability.
• Certain items, such as personalized or perishable goods, may be non-returnable. We will communicate such exceptions clearly to customers.

Incentives:

• We will implement loyalty programs where customers earn points or rewards for repeat purchases.
• We will offer special discounts or promotions for customers who refer friends or family members to the deli restaurant.
• We will organize social media contests and giveaways to increase engagement and attract new customers.

Guarantees:

At Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc., we are committed to providing our customers with confidence in their purchases. Our guarantees aim to assure customers of the quality, authenticity, and satisfaction associated with our products.

e. Customer Support Strategy

To ensure customer satisfaction, we will encourage customers to provide feedback and suggestions. This will help us provide excellent customer service to all our clients and investors, it will help us to first understand their needs, experiences, and pain points. We will work with effective CRM software to be able to achieve this.

On a regular basis, we will work towards strengthening our Customer Service Team and also Leverage Multi-Channel Servicing as part of our customer support strategy

By following this strategy, we aim to exceed customer expectations, build long-lasting relationships, and ensure that customers leave Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. with a positive and satisfying shopping experience.

6. Operational Plan

Our operational plan will outline how the business will run on a day-to-day basis. It will cover areas such as staffing, inventory management, customer service, and marketing.

Overall, we plan to expand our revenue by 25 percent in the second year and the plan will include a marketing, sales, and operations component. By developing a strong plan and implementing it effectively, we will be able to run our pop-up shop business smoothly and attract and retain loyal customers.

a. What Happens During a Typical Day at a Pop-up Shop Business?

• Setup and Opening
• Customer Interactions and Sales
• Monitor inventory levels throughout the day and restock products as needed
• Utilize social media platforms or other marketing channels to promote the pop-up shop and attract customers
• Close the pop-up shop at the designated time or when customer traffic slows down.
• Process any final sales transactions and reconcile cash registers or point-of-sale systems.
• Clean and tidy the pop-up shop space, including restocking inventory, organizing displays, and ensuring that the space is ready for the next operating day.

b. Production Process

There is no production process for a pop-up shop business.

c. Service Procedure

• Upon entering our pop-up shop, customers are warmly greeted by our staff members.
• Based on customer preferences and needs, our staff offers personalized recommendations and suggestions to help customers find the products that best suit their requirements.
• Customers are encouraged to engage with the products on display.
• Our staff members are available at dedicated checkout counters to process purchases, handle payment transactions, and provide receipts.
• Our staff members are available to assist with product exchanges, returns, or warranty-related matters, adhering to our return policy.

d. The Supply Chain

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. will rely on a supply chain model that involves the process of sourcing, transporting, storing, and managing inventory of the various products and supplies needed to run our pop-up shop business.

e. Sources of Income

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. will generate revenue primarily through the sale of products (fashion apparel, accessories, and lifestyle products from emerging designers, local artisans, and popular brands).

7. Financial Plan

a. Amount Needed to Start your Pop-up Shop Business?

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. would need an estimate of $105,000 to successfully set up our pop-up shop business in the United States of America. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of all our staff for the first month of operation.

b. What are the Costs Involved?

• Business Registration Fees – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $3,300.
• Marketing, Branding, and Promotions – $3,000.
• Business Consultant Fee – $2,500.
• Insurance – $3,400.
• Rent/Lease – $35,000.
• Operational Cost (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $25,000
• Start-up Inventory – $25,000
• Website: $600
• Opening party: $5,000
• Miscellaneous: $2,000

c. Do You Need to Build a Facility? If YES, How Much Will it Cost?

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. will not build a new facility for our pop-up shop business; we intend to start with a long-term lease and after 5 years, we will start the process of acquiring our own warehouse facility.

d. What are the Ongoing Expenses for Running a Pop-up Shop Business?

• The cost of renting or leasing the pop-up shop space.
• Utility expenses, including electricity, water, heating, and cooling, are ongoing costs.
• Inventory (If your pop-up shop sells physical products, ongoing expenses will include the cost of purchasing or restocking inventory)
• Marketing and advertising
• Staffing
• Insurance
• Maintenance and repairs
• Licensing and permits
• Payment processing fees
• Miscellaneous expenses such as supplies, technology and software subscriptions, security systems, packaging materials, and any additional services or resources required to operate the pop-up shop.

e. What is the Average Salary of your Staff?

• Shop Manager – $46,000 per year
• Cashier (Accountant) – $35,000 per year
• Sales Assistant – $28,000 per year
• Cleaners – $26,000 per year

f. How Do You Get Funding to Start a Pop-up Shop Business?

• Raising money from personal savings and sale of personal stocks and properties
• Raising money from investors and business partners
• Sell shares to interested investors
• Applying for a loan from your bank/banks
• Pitching your business idea and applying for business grants and seed funding from the government, donor organizations, and angel investors
• Source for soft loans from your family members and friends.

8. Financial Projection

a. How Much Should You Charge for Your Product/Service?

The price of our products is not fixed, it will depend on the type of products.

b. Sales Forecast?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $260,000
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $380,000
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $450,000

c. Estimated Profit You Will Make a Year?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1) (Profit After Tax): $26%
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2) (Profit After Tax): $30%
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3) (Profit After Tax): $35%

d. Profit Margin of a Pop-up Shop Business 

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. will aim for a profit margin of 26 to 30 percent on sales. This means that for every dollar spent on our product by a customer, the business should aim to earn 26 to 30 cents in profit.

9. Growth Plan

a. How do you intend to grow and expand? By opening more retail outlets/offices or selling a franchise?

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. will grow our pop-up shop business by first exploring other key cities in the United States of America within the first five years of establishing the business and then will start selling franchises from the sixth year.

b. Where do you intend to expand to and why?

Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. plans to expand to

• New York City, New York
• Los Angeles, California
• Chicago, Illinois
• San Francisco, California
• Miami, Florida
• Dallas, Texas
• Seattle, Washington
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Houston, Texas.

The reason we intend to expand to these locations is the fact that available statistics show that the cities listed above have the highest and thriving market for the products we retail in our pop-up shops.

10. Exit Plan

The founder of Shelly Hulk® Pop-up Shop, Inc. plans to exit the business via family succession. The company has placed structures and processes in place that will help us achieve our plan of successfully transferring the business from one family member to another and from one generation to another.

The company has successfully developed a detailed transition plan to smoothly hand over responsibilities to the new successor. This includes transferring ownership, training key personnel, and communicating with employees, customers, and suppliers about the change.