The resale industry has seen incredible growth online. Platforms like Shopify, eBay, and Poshmark have made it easier than ever for resellers to build a business from home and reach customers nationwide. But as your business grows, you may start asking yourself: Is it time to open a physical store?
A brick-and-mortar location can be a big step forward—offering opportunities that online-only reselling can’t always provide. Let’s explore when it might make sense to take your resale business offline and into a storefront.
If your home or storage unit is overflowing with inventory, it may be a sign you’ve reached a new stage in your business. A store can provide dedicated space to showcase your items, store inventory, and create a more professional shopping experience. Plus, a storefront can help you separate your work from your home life—a big win for many entrepreneurs.
While online shopping is convenient, many resale customers still value the in-person experience. They want to try on clothing, feel the quality of furniture, or hunt for hidden gems in real time. If you’re noticing repeat customers asking if you have a location, or if local buyers keep wanting to pick up items, opening a store could strengthen your relationship with your audience.
Brick-and-mortar stores naturally bring people together. A store can become a hub for your local community—whether it’s shoppers browsing for unique finds, consignors bringing in items, or vendors showcasing their products. Hosting events, pop-ups, or workshops can set you apart and drive traffic beyond what’s possible online.
A storefront creates legitimacy. It gives customers confidence that you’re a trusted business, and it makes your brand visible to passersby who may never have found you online. With the right location, your store becomes a marketing tool in itself—your sign, displays, and storefront presence all work to attract new shoppers.
Many resellers find that adding a physical store opens new revenue streams. You can offer consignments, rent vendor booths, or upsell items that are harder to move online. Some store owners even use their space to host markets, trunk shows, or community events, which not only bring in extra income but also deepen customer loyalty.
Opening a brick-and-mortar store is a big decision. Before you commit, ask yourself:
The good news? You don’t have to choose between online and brick-and-mortar. Many successful resellers use a hybrid model—leveraging e-commerce to reach a broad audience while running a storefront that builds local loyalty. With the right tools, like SimpleConsign, you can manage both seamlessly in one platform.
If your resale business is thriving online, opening a physical store could be your next big opportunity. The key is knowing when you’re ready and setting yourself up with the right systems to support your growth. A brick-and-mortar store can turn your side hustle into a community destination—and open the door to even bigger possibilities. Learn how SimpleConsign can help you today.