Hey, I’m thinking of opening a Smoke Shop within the next 3 to 5 months and I just wanted to know what’s the steps to opening an LLC for a Smoke Shop I know I need like a tobacco license a hemp license and an electronic vape license is there any other advice you guys can give me that I don’t know about so I don’t make mistakes please and thank you
I've been working at a local smoke shop and learning all of the ins and outs of the business. I have a good relationship with the owner, and he's been a great mentor who is willing to help walk me through the process of opening my own shop. You can never have enough help, though, so I thought to come here and see if there's anyone else in the business who would be willing to reach out, form a connection, and help give a 26 year old, recent college grad some advice on starting their first business.
I've got a good understanding of the start up costs, maintenance costs, marketing costs, POS and banking system, necessary licensing, insurance, regulation procedures, tips for finding a good location, what to look for in quality staff, etc. I also have access to reputable wholesalers who have quality product for a good price. I've been studying our books and have quickly learned what products make money, and what don't.
I've developed a passion for this industry and want to meet other like minded individuals who were once in my position, looking to open their own shop. I'm located in north Houston if anyone happens to be in a market with a similar demographic (i.e. no recreational or medicinal marijuana).
Further down the line, if the shop ends up being successful, I'm also interested in getting into the wholesale business and selling to smoke shops directly, so if anyone has any advice or contacts in that particular market sector, I would greatly appreciate the support.
Thanks for taking the time to read this, and even more thanks to anyone willing to reach out and give me some advice.