Classique Gifts Etc. It is a retail shop that offers fine gifts, collectible dolls, accessories and other doll-related products. The Lexington, Kentucky store will serve middle- and high-class shoppers who are looking for something more than congested malls. The store will offer a wide range of quality, unique products and friendly, knowledgeable customer service. It is also conveniently located in a quiet area.

This business plan will be used to secure financing of $50,000 for inventory purchases and expenses during the first year. We request a $10,000 credit card to be used for low cash flow periods. Brenda and Charles Gajdik, together, will manage and own the store. They will contribute $40,000 to equity as an investment. This money can be used to finance start-up and equipment purchases as well operating capital.

This plan’s sales forecasts are extremely conservative when compared to similar businesses in Lexington. Brenda has assessed the strengths and limitations of this store, and is confident that it can be improved.

1.1 Objectives

• To develop Classique Gifts Etc. Central Kentucky’s premier gift retailer.
• To establish and maintain a gross margin of more than 40% within the first year.
• Personal customer service and marketing are key to acquiring 4,000 customers by the end of the second fiscal year.
• To realize a substantial net profit at the end of Year 3.

1.2 Mission

Classique Gifts Etc. will operate a gift store that sells high-end gifts, collectible dolls and accessories. We want to provide products from quality suppliers and provide professional customer service in a friendly environment.

1.3 Keys to Success

To be successful in this business, we need:

• Get the best products for the customer and sell them at the highest quality.
• Provide friendly customer service.
• Excellent vendor-supplier relations will help expedite the shipment of orders.
• To take advantage of Christmas shopping season, advertise and promote our store right away.
• Continuously evaluate our inventory and sales, and adjust our inventory levels using detailed records.