Finding & Using Business Premises
Introduction
This article is aimed at the small and home business. In keeping with our usual article concept, the following is a guide (not an exhaustive report) to some of the issues that you need to consider prior to starting your business, or when upgrading your current location.
Almost all businesses need specific requirements that will enable them to trade successfully from their premises, and the following covers most of those specifics.
Whatever business we start the need for ‘operating’ space is a key issue. Space to work in ranges from a purpose built, fully functioning and well located premises, to the front seat of our car: I confidently add that it’s nearer the front seat, than purpose built, for most of us.
The rise of the Internet, and it’s lack of infrastructure requirement, has encouraged a new generation to become business owners. I know of one e-business that operates from the corner of a front room and use a garage as a warehouse.
They have, almost, daily deliveries bringing stock, and have over generous neighbours in my view. The issue with home based businesses that move stock is an environmental one and can lead to a court injunction from your neighbours or local council. A further example of environmental contention is street car sales from the drive of the family home. The other extreme is the new enterprise that moves into a business centre with laid on, and costly, administration services or/and a minimum term rent/lease agreement that favours the l andlord and not you. Or, the business owner that moves into a larger building than they can use immediately, but has planned for growth to come quickly in their business plan: a d angerous strategy if cash flow is anything less than fluid. One further point before moving to the article. What determines where you operate from… accessibility, location, production, future capacity, cost ? I believe it’s the ‘production’. Whatever problems you have with where you operate from, you must be able to perform your work to the required standard. This may seem obvious, but is overlooked by many. This also goes for those working from home… it’s a false economy and a major distraction if at the end of the day you cannot produce the required numbers and standard of goods or services: whatever the benefits!
Where to Look
Finding reasonable premises is quite easy if you have a good budget and an ability to haggle. At the other end, someone has to end up in the less attractive offices and factories that have little maintenance, but are low cost: this is at least the foothold that many businesses need. Looking in the local free and paid newspapers is the easiest option to see current offerings, with Business Links and regional enterprises able to offer guidance and contacts. Your local commercial estate agent will have locations and your council may have some information.
Driving through your preferred location will also give you a number of opportunities that should be easily recognized by ‘To Let/Rent’ boards.
Article Index
- Finding And Using Business Premises
- Types of Business Premises
- Key Issues When Finding Business Premises
- Related Articles
