Pop-up shops are a great opportunity to grow your business and find potential customers.
As a business owner, you should participate in pop-ups as much as you can because you learn something new. 6:23 Detroit Shop has participated in over 25 pop-ups since 2020, and each time has been quite different. We’re happy to share our success tips! Let’s get to it.
Here is all you need to know:
Know what you’re trying to accomplish
Having goals for each pop-up shop helps with success by creating your own expectations for each event.
Examples of goals:
- We make 50 sales
- Sell out on products
- Meet two new customers
- Have one returning customer
- Try out a new product
- Get 10 customers to sign up for our newsletter
This makes participating in pop-up shops an opportunity to always learn or gain something new for your business.
Research the host
The host of the pop-up shop is the biggest indicator of whether an event flops or succeeds. Research the host, know what they do, and who their target audience is!
Not every host has the same target audience you are looking for; be mindful!
The worst pop-up is one that is over $75, and the host has not advertised, given a rundown of the event, or provided enough information and effort for the event to succeed.
Things to consider when picking a host:
- Are their events known for success?
- Have I worked with them before? How was the experience?
- Do they have a supportive community?
- How’s the host’s communication?
- Who is their target audience? (Go on their social media page and see who is interacting with them)
Pack your essentials
While your products, set up, and decorations are important, don’t forget to have your essential items as well, aka the items you probably forget but wish you brought along with you.
6:23 Detroit Shop Essential Items:
- Bags
- Thank you cards
- Business card (Physical or digital)
- Napkins (We sell baked goods)
- Samples
- Freebies
- Office Supply Kit – notebook, pens, scissors, glue, tape, screw driver, lint roller, wipes)
- Lights
- Snacks for your tummy
- Mini trash bin
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Things to always consider
Each pop-up shop has a different mission and style. Be sure to consider a few attributions with each event.
Location:
- Is there an area where my customer and I can connect?
- Does my customer hang out here?
Cost:
- Are people paying to attend this event?
- How will I make up for my expenses?
Foot Traffic:
- Is this an opportunity for a lot of foot traffic, or is it a location that prohibits foot traffic?
- How many individuals are attending? How big is the venue to hold those individuals?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Rather, it’s a free or paid event – ask questions that not only will help your business succeed, but also questions that will let you know if the event is worth your efforts.
Questions to ask:
- What is my vendor fee covering?
- What’s included in my vendor fee?
- How many guests are you expecting to show up?
- How many vendors are showing up? What are they selling?
- How is this event being promoted?
- Are tables and chairs provided?
- What is the protocol for weather?
- Can I bring guests?
Don’t be afraid to step outside the box
While most pop-up shops suggest a 6-foot table and two chairs, step out of that concept and get creative!
Instead of a table, bring a shelf; instead of two chairs, a stool. It can definitely help to stand at your table.
Always make sure you have enough room, but don’t feel shy about moving away from the typical vendor look, especially if you have permission to do so!
Remember, this is your business, and everything you do affects it! Always be mindful.
Let’s Talk About It
Are you excited for the pop-up season for 2026?