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Have you ever imagined yourself surrounded by sweet treats in your very own shop? If you want to know how to open a candy store, you’ve come to the right place. From envisioning your sugary haven to filling it with the latest trendy treats, here’s a fun and flavorful guide to help you get started.
The essential steps to start a candy store
Your sweet dream can come true with the right mix of planning and passion—and following the steps below. For more in-depth guides for opening a retail store, check out Faire Academy.
Step one: Determine your concept and target market
Your first task is to decide what kind of candy shop most inspires you. A Swedish pick-and-mix spot? A boutique chocolatier? A retro candy paradise? Define your niche and do your homework to home in on your market and potential customers.
Step two: Make a business plan
Crunch the numbers to determine how much it costs to open a candy store in your area. Write a business plan that includes market analysis, an executive summary, and the capital you’ll need to raise—especially if you are looking into types of funding opportunities.
Step three: Make your way through administrative tasks
Selling confections is serious business. Be sure to register your business name and get a resale certificate—alongside other licenses and tax IDs. Also, make sure you have health and safety permits specific to handling and selling food items.
Step four: Find a location (even if it’s online)
Before you sign a commercial lease (or buy a space), make sure you can answer a key question: Are candy stores profitable in your area? Conduct thorough market research to identify demand, competition, and potential profitability. If you are not ready for a brick-and-mortar space, you can also set up an attractive e-commerce website.
Step five: Plan your layout and merchandising
Design your candy shop layout to be inviting and fun, guiding customers through a delightful candy experience. Consider eye-catching displays and colorful decorations.
Step five: Buy inventory and follow a budget
Research and budget for your candy inventory. Brush up on the sweetest trends with this candy report and use wholesale platforms like Faire to discover a wide range of candy suppliers.
Step six: Plan out your operations, POS system, and staff
Set up efficient store operations with a reliable POS system to manage sales, inventory, and customer relationships. Hire friendly staff to provide excellent customer service.
Step seven: Hold your grand opening
Plan a grand-opening event to attract customers and create buzz. Offer samples, discounts, and fun activities to draw in the crowd.
Step eight: Promote your store
Use social media, local advertising, and partnerships with influencers to spread the word about your new candy shop. Instagram, for example, has become an excellent platform not just for digital creators, but for boutiques and storeowners to match their products with compatible audiences.
Types of candy to stock in your store
Curating your candy selection can be a big (but fun!) project. There are so many new types of candy that you might start out wondering how to open a chocolate shop but end up an expert on freeze-dried gummy worms.
Here are some of the trendiest candies, complete with a standout example from each category. This will help you curate a collection of caramels, gummy candies, and chocolate bars that will make your store a destination for sweet-seeking customers.
Swedish candy
Sweetish’s Scandinavian Wholesale’s Raspberry Hibiscus Candy is dusted with raspberry powder and delivers a delightful chewy texture.
Swedish candy, or “godis,” is known for its vibrant colors and unique flavors. These days, it has never been more popular.
Some examples of Swedish candy:
These treats offer a delightful variety that captivates candy lovers everywhere.
“Better for you” candy
HEY YUM’s Triassic Garden Organic Fruit Marshmallows are shaped like dinosaurs (which your kids will love) and sweetened with honey (which will make you happy).
It might seem counter-intuitive, but health-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking out “better for you” candy options, which often avoid allergens or other ingredients that can be problematic.
Customers might be looking for:
These sweets offer indulgence without guilt, meeting the growing demand for healthier alternatives in the candy aisle.
Freeze-dried candy
Freeze Dried Fruity Crunchies from Candy Closet Inc. takes a classic candy and makes it burst with intense flavors and an unexpected crunch.
Freeze-drying, originally developed in the early 1900s for food preservation without refrigeration, is now being used to give nostalgic candy classics a modern twist. Some of the most popular ones include:
This innovative process enhances the texture and flavor of traditional treats, making them a new favorite among candy enthusiasts.
Peanut butter–flavored candy
MUMGRY’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Spread is made with freshly roasted peanuts, vegan dark chocolate, and just a hint of salt.
Peanut butter is a perennial favorite, and candies featuring this flavor are always in demand.
Popular products right now:
- Peanut butter chocolate cups
- Peanut butter spreads
- Peanut butter chocolate truffles
- Peanut butter fudge
Gummies and chewy candies
Important Exports Distribution’s Chilli Bomba Watermelon Slices have an unexpected coating of chilies and other seasonings.
Gummies and chewy candies are popular with candy lovers of all ages, and they come in a wide range of shapes and flavors—from classic favorites to unexpected twists.
Some options to check out:
Their irresistible textures and playful designs make them a must-have in any candy store.
Hard candies
Big Sky Brand’s Citrus Delight Mixed candies offer attractive retro packaging at an accessible price point for impulse purchases.
With artisanal twists and nostalgic flavors, hard candy is making a comeback. This resurgence is transforming traditional treats into modern-day favorites, appealing to both new and long-time fans.
Consider stocking:
With the right mix of delectable treats and a welcoming atmosphere, your candy store can bring joy to your community and also become a successful and profitable business.
Are you a new retailer? Explore Open with Faire and apply for up to $20,000 in funding with 60-day payment terms. The perfect way to stock your shop and bring your candy-store dreams to life!
