In support of strategic decision making: A qualitative exploration of resource requirements and usage of retail entrepreneurs

Retail entrepreneurs form the core of many rural towns. From providing a local source of needed products to employment to membership in service organizations, these individuals are the ones to take on the challenge of opening and operating a business where others do not. Small retailers also contribute to many small towns' economies by providing additional tourist activities, supporting other businesses and attractions in drawing tourism dollars. Thus it is important to understand the needs of small retail entrepreneurs as they initiate and develop their businesses, and support those who would wish to do so. The purpose of this study was to identify the kinds of information small retail entrepreneurs would require during startup, and potentially to determine sources of information these individuals consulted during the development of their businesses, a topic relatively unaddressed by previous research. Findings of this study covered several areas of interest, primarily guidance particular to operating a retail business. Industry specific information regarding retail management concerns such as pricing and point-of-sale systems and performance measures formed the primary area of interest identified by this group. Such results could lead local business support agencies and educational organizations to incorporate retail industry-specific instruction in their offerings to business startups.