Whether it’s a retail store, a restaurant, or a warehouse, opening a new location is a critical time in the expansion of a new business. Of course, before you can get things up and running, some vital tasks need to be completed.
Read on to find out what they are below.
Complete a fire safety plan.
One of the most important things you can do before opening a new business location is to make sure there’s a fire plan in place. In fact, most insurance companies will require evidence of robust fire risk assessment and a proper fire plan before they give you the go head to open your doors.
A fire plan is a step by step guide telling workers and customers what to do in case of a fire. In fact, it often shows the appropriate routes to take, and where to congregate when evacuating the building.
Additionally, your fire plan should contain the location of your fire blankets and extinguishers as well. The reason being that employees will then be able to contain the fire if it is safe for them to do so. Thus limiting the risk to anyone else in the vicinity.
Make sure that your premises are secure.
Next, you must ensure the security of your new premises is on point as well. This usually means installing an alarm system, as well as CCTV cameras at vulnerable locations such as entrances and exits.
Additionally, security basics such as robust locks for the doors and windows can make a big difference as well. Strategic lighting is also an excellent idea, as this can act as an excellent deterrent for break-ins and help keep your new investment safe.
Get a durable floor laid.
You will also need to think about the interior of your new location as well. In particular, the flooring is always a key element because without a level, robust floor, it is impossible to fit out your space with all the other items needed.
With that in mind locating an industrial flooring company specialist is the best idea. In fact, they may even offer a range of coating and finishes, so your floors are easy to clean and an instance once you do open as well.
Fit-out the indoors appropriately.
Finally, before you can open your new location, you need to fit out the inside appropriately. Of course, that is substantially easier if you are running a warehouse operation as you will only need shelving units and scales.
However, if you plan on running a restaurant or retail space, you will need to think about things a little more carefully. In fact, in this situation, you will need to consider a range of factors, including the layout of the store and the ambiance it creates. Even the colors and branding of the furniture and accessories you are using matter.
After all, when your aim is to welcome customers into your business premises you need to consider the type of experience they will have while they are there. In fact, this experience is just as crucial to the success of your new location, as any other task.
