Gourmet to Go: A Guide to Opening and Operating a Specialty Food Store

An in-depth examination of the process that prospective specialty food entrepreneurs must follow to open and operate a successful business in today's economic climate. Provides readers with a substantial grounding in the realities of planning for success in this highly dynamic, demanding and trend-driven industry. Contains highly instructive and illuminating stories behind several of the most influential stores along with insightful quotes from retailers, large and small, who are pacesetters in the field. Describes how to write a persuasive and thorough business plan; raise capital; negotiate a lease; find, train and retain key staff; and build customer loyalty. Includes current developments in mail order, private label distribution and Internet marketing.