I don't go into things lightly, and when an idea strikes I am notorious for researching the death out of the topic (i.e. my recent research into low-carbing). This idea is still in its infancy, but guys, I am seriously thinking about opening a low-carb grocery store. Nothing huge, like the one convered in the upcoming conference noted on this site's homepage. But something small and carries most of the products that we seem to like and have a hard time finding. I would carry all the major books on the subject, the s/f and low carb alternatives to our favorite foods (tortillas, syrups, pastas, etc.), maybe some desserts and ice cream behind an ice cream counter, and serve organic coffees. And, since it's the South Florida area, i'd maybe set up tables outside for folks to mix and mingle.

And here's the kicker: I'd have a before and after bulletin board which would feature customers willing to say "look at what low-carbing did for me!"

So, what do you guys think? Any advice from others who've been in retail?

Cherub
304/284/160
5'9"
Started Atkins 01/04/04

I see more and more LC stores opening every month or at least larger stores carrying the products that we use. It's your money and if you want to open an LC store - go for it. But I do liek the before and after bulletin board idea. Too many low carb stores are impersonal and seem to be in it for the money.

Rob
310/232/180

Me, a skeptic? I trust you have proof.

I think it is a great idea. I don't know how it would work in your area, I guess it would just depend on the people and what they like and eat.
We have a "carb free shop" here in Austin, and I love it. the people are really nice, and when I can't find it at HEB, I go there.
If you decide to go for it, best of luck, and the bulletin board is a great idea!

Heather
181/158.4/140
atkins 8/5/03 (off Thanksgiving 2003-Jan 12, 04)

The idea is great, but only if you move it a little further north...say...Lake Worth maybe!

227.5/213 helloooooo 150!
Gertie

Cherub,

I am acquainted with the owners of such a store in my area. They are very keen on getting other such establishments going. If you would like to send me an email, I'll get you thier phone number and you can give them a ring!

Blessings!
Sharron
Author of "Low Carb Cooking at Sharron's Place," and "Extreme Lo-Carb Cuisine," available where ever books are sold.

www.thelowcarbcook.com

"My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart." Colossians 2:2

Thanks, Sharron! I've just sent you an email. And thanks to everyone for their encouragement. I'll keep you informed...

Cherub
304/284/160
5'9"
Started Atkins 01/04/04

I like the area to mingle and the before and after customers.

It would be great to do group demo's. Different peoples favorite recipes. Sometimes you need to try it before you do it yourself.

Good luck

travellost-51 yrs Young
1/20/03 195/145 first time
1/5/04 second time
150/147.5/135
"I am allergic to carbs they make me break out in fat"

I don't know the licensing requirements for serving food, but maybe you could have a little take-out stand, too?

I don't know if the store is a good idea or not. On the one hand it's the hot thing right now. On the other hand, these things go through cycles and right now we could be peaking. One bad story about Atkins and the gold rush could be over.

**************
"Sometimes I think you have to march right in and demand your rights, even if you don't know what your rights are, or who the person is you're talking to. Then on the way out, slam the door."

Oh how I would love to do that!!! If you can swing it, go for it!!!! You should think about holding or hosting LC support group meetings there too. What a boon that would for your customers!!!!

How exciting!!!!!

Barb - 30 lbs gone FOREVER!
www.iwsgroupinc.com - website design and development


Atkins-3/14/03
174/144/135 5'2"
"A little knowledge is a dangerous thing."
Knowledge is POWER

Maybe even LC cooking classes. Think about how baking stores have classes...then sell a bunch of their stuff.

Can you imagine how great the response would be to gourmet or even everyday LC cooking classes? People wanting to follow an LC plan but not really knowing what they can fix for dinner, especially things that would please the whole family.

These are all wonderful ideas, and I'm going to research everyone of them, in terms of space needed, $$ required for start-up and first and foremost--if my area has a large enough demographic to make this a success! Given the "South Beach" diet craze originated here, well maybe, just maybe...
I love the recipes and the support groups. Also, low carb is not just for Atkins kids, but diabetics as well, right?

Cherub
304/284/160
5'9"
Started Atkins 01/04/04

Diabetics benefit greatly from LC!!!!

This is soooo exciting!!! Oh the possibilities!!

Terra, that's an excellent idea!!!

Barb - 30 lbs gone FOREVER!
www.iwsgroupinc.com - website design and development


Atkins-3/14/03
174/144/135 5'2"
"A little knowledge is a dangerous thing."
Knowledge is POWER

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by cherub:
Also, low carb is not just for Atkins kids, but diabetics as well, right?
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

I am sure everyone on this board would agree that going low carb is one of the best possible treatments for diabetes, but just keep in mind that the american diebetes assoc. still officially recomends the food pyrimid.

Started Atkins on 9/20/03
235--&gt;190; 150 goal