We got a call earlier this week from a Ventnor shop keeper, who had decided to sell her business and wondered if VentnorBlog could help her let potential purchasers know.
With our viewing figures telling us that we’re got over 85,000 readers coming to VentnorBlog monthly, we suggested that a sponsored feature should bring some more attention.
We popped along to have a chat to her as to why she was looking to sell her long-established business.
Long established
Rita’s Boutique has been an asset to Ventnor for over twelve years. Originally starting on Ventnor’s seafront, she moved her stylish ladies clothes shop up to the main town for the next season, settling on a prime spot in Pier Street in Ventnor town.
Over the years Rita has built a loyal group of customers, many of whom come to see her on a weekly basis.
‘Wow factor’ clothes
There’s obviously a reason why this devoted group keeps returning, “We specialise in clothes with a ‘wow factor’,” Rita told us, “They’re bright clothes that really stand out. They’re classic – but with a point of interest.”
It’s day and occasional wear that Rita’s Boutique specialise in and, although she doesn’t sell evening wear, she thinks this is an area that could be expanded into.
Rather glamorously, the shop has been featured in high fashion and society magazines Vogue and Tatler.
Rita has managed to secure a number of exclusive ranges from her suppliers.
She told us, “Our clothes are known for good quality, which means that people come from all over the Island to pick up garments.”
Items of clothes hover around the £100 mark.
Loyal customers
It’s not just Islanders who shop there, “A number of my Mainland customers tell me that their holidays aren’t complete unless they’ve been in to look at our latest stock,” Rita told us.
Rita has an extensive mailing list of customers that she uses to keep up to date with the latest stock and special offers.
Pauline Brandon, a popular local ceramic artist and resident of the area has been buying from Rita’s the whole time she’s been open and gave this glowing testimonial.
I have been buying clothes from you ever since you started up in 1996 on Ventnor seafront.
You always have something innovative for both every day, special occasions and you accommodate all sizes.
I always come out with something I know no-one else will have and it gives me a big lift.
Ventnor resident Penny Allison, who has been a customer of the shop for three years, was also happy to put pen to paper writing a letter of support, part of which we’ve reproduced below.
“The Boutique has always held items of clothing of interest in its unique range of clothing for all ages.”
“My satisfaction is with stock range, the presentation of products and helpful and the friendly sales technique of the staff.”
“If following its sale to the potential purchaser its character and allure can be maintained, of if it’s even possible, improved upon, it can be assured of my continuing custom and that of the town people and visitors.”
You could own this
Rita isn’t selling the business because isn’t successful – she describes the shop’s turnover as healthy – she wants to sell because she’s been bitten by the travel bug, following some major changes in her life.
Because she’s keen to make the change, she is only asking £5,000 for the business.
This includes everything to allow you to walk in and take the business over including three months shop rent; the shop’s stock worth £2,000; goodwill; fixtures and fittings.
If you’re not completely au fait with the fashion world, Rita is willing to pass on the benefit of her years worth of experience – how the business works; where to source clothes; her trade contacts; etc – to the new owners.
If you’re Internet savvy there’s an opportunity to take this business online, through a Web site, letting people see the latest garments that are available.
Get in touch
If you’re interested in getting into the fashion business and want to find out more, you can contact Rita either on (01983) 855 515 or on her email [email protected]. Don’t forget to mention where you heard about it.
