The NALB Creative Centre (NCC), is where artists come together. NALB stands as an acronym for “No artist left behind”, with our company’s by-line being: “Live Your Arts.” NCC is specialty retail store offering a wide array of materials and supplies to artists, crafters, and educators. NCC will be a welcoming facility that will support crafters, professionals, and amateurs in the Big Island’s art community. NALB will sponsor art shows and competitions, art and craft fairs, scholarships for artists to continue their formal education, and other community events. NALB will offer creative classes and workshops in many media and techniques.
The Market
NALB is leading in an exciting, growing market. Only two stores currently exist on Hawaii offering only art and craft supplies. None of these stores can offer education or hands-on experiences. They do not support the artists in any active way. They are also not able to give the high level of customer support that NALB can. NALB is unique in that it is run by artists and is the only art supply shop on the island. NALB Creative Center will tap into the growing number of professional artists in West Hawaii. We will also cater to the growing needs of retirees (100% increase in the past three years), many of which have settled in Kona thanks to the vibrant arts community. NALB will market actively for teachers and students in the rapidly growing private and public education systems.
The Organization
NALB is operated and owned by practicing artists. The company was founded on the belief that satisfied customers are essential to its success. With this in mind, NALB Creative Center will be working hard to ensure that all of their customers’ expectations are exceeded in all transactions. NCC will continue to be active in the local art scene by participating and educating. NALB staff will get training in the most recent trends and products. NALB’8217;s owners can anticipate consumer trends and make them happen in their creative work.
Products, Services and Delivery
NALB will locate in the commercial business district between Costco and Home Depot in a store of 3,000 square feet. Many of the original tenants were cabinetmakers. NALB has the space and ability to offer many types of art and craft materials. Our size will enable us to buy directly from the manufacturer, which will reduce middle man markups. Regular customers will get discounts. For orders over $300, we will offer free delivery in North Kona. NALB will provide Artist’s Oasis holidays for travelers through the arrangement of local accommodations, renting equipment and selling supplies. We also offer maps and guides.
Financials
NCC will make modest profits in the first month. The ability to buy wholesale will result in a 50% increase in margins. Sales in the first full year will be slightly over $300,000. Although existing art supply shops are reporting growth of over 30%, we are conservatively projecting a growth rate in the first year of sales of slightly more than $300,000. We budget prudently but have great vision.
1.1 Objectives
- Customer Satisfaction – To create an environment where art and crafts enthusiasts can shop by providing knowledgeable and professional support. Customer satisfaction is measured by repeat business (our goal to have 50% of our customers returning within six months to purchase additional products) and multiple sales. Our goal is for 30% of sales to be accompanied by additional purchases.
- To gain 80% market share to become the most important art and craft supplier on the Island.
- To reach a 50% profit margin in the first year.
- To be a vocal and active member of the community. To provide ongoing reinvestment through sponsorship of community festivities and activities.
- To develop, in year two and three, Artist’s Oasis of Hawaii. We would rent materials and accommodation locally for visiting artists.
1.2 Keys to Success
In order for NALB Creative Center to succeed we must:
1.3 Mission
NALB Creative Center is a non-profit organization that supports and promotes the island as an artist’s destination and oasis.
We will strive, constantly, to supply what the consumer is asking for; we will continually review what is available in the marketplace. We will provide new products and services to the areas of need. NALB will be maintained as an area for artists to gather.
Our customers will define success as their trust in us and their ability to deliver on their price, service, or selection expectations.