Hey there,
Running a quilt shop is a beautiful mix of creativity, community, and… crunching numbers. 📊💸 While we can’t balance your books (we’re too busy making sure your appliqué kits are 🔥), we do know a thing or two about keeping things running smoothly. So let’s talk cash flow & purchase orders—because no one likes a surprise fabric drought or a pile of unpaid invoices. 🙃
1. Quilt Shops Have Seasons—Plan for ‘Em!
Winter? Cozy quilt boom. ❄️ Summer? Maybe a little slower. Look at past trends so you can stock up when it counts and avoid shelves full of “why did I order so much of this?
2. Pre-Orders = Your New Best Friend
Got a new fabric line or an exclusive laser-cut appliqué kit coming? 🎉 Offer pre-orders or deposits so you’re not fronting all the cash before customers even get a peek. Less risk, more reward. 💪 Did you know that we loan our samples out for trunk shows? That way your customers can see the finished product (let's face it, samples help sell!)
3. Don’t Let Inventory Own You
Too much stock = tied-up cash. Too little stock = sad customers. 😭 Find that sweet spot by prioritizing bestsellers and running clearance promos for slow-moving items. (Pro tip: Bundles and themed kits fly off the shelves!)
4. Play It Smart with Payment Terms
Negotiate with your vendors like the boss you are. 👏 Longer payment windows? Yes, please. Flexible order minimums? Even better. Also, make it easy for your customers to pay—online invoicing, installment plans, or even a loyalty program can keep the cash flowing.
5. Have a Rainy-Day Fund ☔ Unexpected expenses will always pop up (hello, last-minute trade show or that one must-have collection). Keeping a little cushion set aside can make all the difference when opportunity knocks!
If Your Quilt Shop Isn’t Doing This, You’re Losing Money 💰✂️