seamstome,
You've got some great ideas ... and so do many others here !
I worked and taught in 2 LQS 10-15 yrs ago, and learned how a shop operated from the OTHER side of the counter /classroom. One shop was successful and popular for many years, while the other was not, and closed after only 2 years. They just didn't have much to keep customers coming back.
Things have changed a lot in the marketplace since then ... mostly due to the INTERNET, plus there are more sophisticated and demanding quilters today.
What worked for LQS 5-10-15 years ago WON'T work today. The LQS is still viable because it gives us the opportunity to connect with other quilters face to face and get our "warm fuzzies" for the day, week or month. Internet boards like this are great - and so is online shopping - but they are just NOT the same as meeting with friends, a group or class at your LQS.
IMHO, today LQS will HAVE to sell machines to stay afloat ... fabric and classes alone won't do it anymore. Unless you are in a superb location or tourist destination. You must put CUSTOMER SERVICE FIRST, have at least 1-2 days with EXPANDED HOURS (for all of us working quilters) and you must keep up to date with the latest trends, fabrics and patterns. Good shop samples, frequent change of displays are a must.
Little things like "free" pattern handouts, a $5 BOM, free sew-in afternoons for drop-ins and bees are BIG things in the busy minds of customers. Good coffee or iced tea and cookies also make a warm impression. Too many shops don't offer these things, and they are very simple ideas ...
Keep the fabric MOVING, don't let it hang around, stock good fat qtrs and kits, and have NEW notions and patterns IN STOCK ... if you don't, your customers WILL GO elsewhere !
Last edited by TexasGurl; 01-29-2013 at 08:27 AM.