How to Start a Retail Business in Battle Creek

Retail Business

The Retail Business segment equips entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools to successfully launch and manage brick-and-mortar or online retail operations.

phase: planning

Step One: Research & business plan

Conduct market research to understand your target customers, local demand, and competition. Identify your product offerings and pricing strategy. Use this information to create a business plan that includes your retail concept, operational strategy, supplier relationships, marketing plan, and financial projections.

Tasks

Develop a good business idea
So you want to start a business? The first step is to determine if you have a good business idea. A good business idea is one you are passionate about, can earn revenue, and produces a repeat customer. A good idea is the foundation of your business and must hold validity. Without a sound idea to build from, startups quickly loose traction or fail completely.
Conduct market research
You’ve established your idea—great! Now, it’s time to understand your market. Market research helps you gather insights about your target customers and industry. Through customer analysis, you’ll identify your audience, conduct research on their needs, and understand their pain points. Meanwhile, industry analysis helps you assess external factors like competitors, suppliers, and distributors.
What is Market Research?
SizeUp Your Business
Seek professional advice
Now that you have a solid business idea and research, seek advice from experienced professionals. A mentor or advisor can provide valuable insights on financing, legal structure, branding, and operations while helping you navigate market trends and build industry connections.
Meet with SBDO
Meet with SBDC
Create a business plan
A business plan is a roadmap for your venture, helping you adapt to market changes and refine your strategy. It also showcases your commitment and due diligence to potential funders, partners, and investors.
Business Plan Template

Helpful Resources

SizeUp Michigan
SizeUp Michigan is a business intelligence tool that helps you learn things abut your business that you may not have known, and potentially discover new opportunities. Brought to you by Consumers Energy.
Website
City of Battle Creek Small Business Development Office (SBDO)
The Small Business Development Office at the City of Battle Creek works with the community to attract, launch, and grow small businesses across Battle Creek.
Website
Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Michigan Small Business Development Center Southwest Region (SBDC) develops and maintains a comprehensive small business assistance program that provides counseling, training and secondary research services to promote business start-up, growth, innovation and product diversification to the seven counties it serves in Michigan.
Website
SCORE Kalamazoo/SW Michigan
SCORE Kalamazoo/Southwest Michigan SCORE is dedicated to helping you succeed. We provide FREE mentoring to new and established small businesses in Southwest Michigan. Find your mentor today.
Website
Northern Initiatives
Northern Initiatives provides loans and business services to Michigan entrepreneurs and small business owners who add jobs and help their communities thrive.
Website
Willard Library Resource Desk
Willard Library sparks discovery, growth and connection.
Website

Lessons Learned: Step One

Learn from the owners of Café Rica, La Loma Supermercado and The Link as they discuss why it’s crucial to develop a good business plan and conduct market research as you begin your business journey.

phase: planning

Step Two: form your entity

Choose the legal structure for your retail business, such as a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation. Register your business name with the appropriate local and state authorities, obtain a tax ID number (EIN), and apply for any necessary retail-specific licenses, such as resale permits or sales tax licenses. Set up a commercial bank account. Properly insure the entity, property, and equipment.

Tasks

Choose a legal structure
Your business’s legal structure determines taxes, liability, ownership, and funding options. Common structures include Sole Proprietorships, LLCs, Partnerships and S Corporations. Each offer different levels of protection. Choose one that aligns with your goals and register with your state. For guidance, consult the SBA or a business legal expert.
SBA Legal Structures
Determine state & local licensing requirements
Your business may need a specific license or permit to operate legally. Requirements vary by industry, location and governing body. Some must be renewed annually.
City of Battle Creek Business Licenses
Calhoun County Business Licenses
State Business License Search
Federal Licenses & Permits
Register business name
Your business name is a key part of your brand. Once you have a unique name, register it with your state and check availability through the Michigan Corporations Name Availability Search and register your DBA through Calhoun County if necessary.
LARA Business Name Availability Search
DBA Calhoun County
Obtain an EIN
An EIN is like a social security number for your business. It is used for federal and state tax purposes. Be mindful of websites that charge you to apply for an EIN. You never have to pay a fee to obtain one. You can apply for an EIN directly with the IRS.
Apply for EIN
Register federal, state & local taxes
Your business must pay federal, state, and sometimes local taxes, depending on its structure and location. Sole proprietors file taxes with personal returns, while businesses with employees must withhold payroll taxes. Any associated retail operations must collect Michigan’s sales tax.
Federal Tax Information
State Tax Information
City Income Tax
Seek business insurance
Business insurance protect businesses from financial losses related to lawsuits, property damage, and employee risks. The type of coverage varies depending on your business needs and industry standards. Contact an insurance agent to determine the best coverage for your organization.

Helpful Resources

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) continues to help small business owners and entrepreneurs pursue the American dream. SBA is the only cabinet-level federal agency fully dedicated to small business and provides counseling, capital, and contracting expertise as the nation’s only go-to resource and voice for small businesses.
Website
City Clerk
The City Clerk’s Office is responsible for business licenses such as amusement places and devices, pawnbroker, peddlers/vendors, secondhand goods, tree trimmers, and used car lots.
Website
Calhoun County Clerk and Register of Deeds
The Calhoun County Clerk and Register of Deeds records and maintains legal documents related to real and personal property.
Website
Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)
Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) protects people and promotes business in Michigan through transparent and accessible regulatory solutions.
Website
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
The IRS mission is to provide America’s taxpayers top quality service by helping them understand and meet their tax responsibilities and to enforce the law with integrity and fairness to all.
Website
City Income Tax Department
City ordinance requires the Income Tax Administrator to collect city income taxes from individuals and businesses. The city began levying this tax in 1967. Voters approved the tax to help fund the growing demand for city services.
Website

Lessons Learned: Step Two

Learn from the owners of Café Rica, Plumeria Botanical Boutique, and The Link about how to choose your legal structure and best practices when determining state and local licensing.

phase: location

Step Three: choose your location

Select a location for your retail store that aligns with your target audience and product offerings. Consider factors like foot traffic, parking availability, and proximity to complementary businesses. For e-commerce retailers, focus on establishing an online storefront and warehousing options.

Tasks

Explore location needs, ideals and opportunity
Choosing the right location is key to visibility and competitiveness. Consider your target market, costs, zoning laws, and business needs. Some locations offer financial incentives, so check with your local Small Business Development and Planning office for opportunities. Depending on your business type, an online-only model may be the best option, eliminating the need for a physical location while reducing overhead costs.
Determine zoning classifications and requirements
Before signing a lease, check with your local city planning department to ensure your business complies with zoning and land use regulations. Failure to comply with zoning regulations could delay opening. Consult the Planning & Zoning and Inspections departments for guidance on compliance requirements.
City Planning & Zoning
City Inspections

Helpful Resources

City of Battle Creek Small Business Development Office (SBDO)
The Small Business Development Office at the City of Battle Creek works with the community to attract, launch, and grow small businesses across Battle Creek.
Website
SizeUp Michigan
SizeUp Michigan is a business intelligence tool that helps you learn things abut your business that you may not have known, and potentially discover new opportunities. Brought to you by Consumers Energy.
Website
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) continues to help small business owners and entrepreneurs pursue the American dream. SBA is the only cabinet-level federal agency fully dedicated to small business and provides counseling, capital, and contracting expertise as the nation’s only go-to resource and voice for small businesses.
Website
City Planning & Zoning
The Planning and Zoning Division is responsible for long-range planning pertaining to growth and development in the city, particularly around land use, neighborhoods, commerce, industry, infrastructure, natural resources, transportation, and recreation.
Website
City Inspections
The City of Battle Creek Inspections Division is responsible for enforcement of the State of Michigan Building, Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing codes for new construction and building renovations.
Website
Fire Marshal
A fire marshal is responsible for fire safety in buildings and structures. They enforce fire codes, investigate fires, and educate the public.
Fire Department Website

Lessons Learned: Step Three

Learn from the owners of La Loma Supermercado, Suipi’s East End Eatery, Chris Edwards Salon, and The Link on how to choose the right location for your business and seeking help when determining zoning classifications and requirements.

phase: location

Step Four: Site selection & approval

Once you’ve chosen a location, ensure it complies with local zoning regulations for retail businesses. Work with property owners or city officials to obtain approval for your specific business activities, such as signage, outdoor displays, or product categories.

Tasks

Conduct site visits
Before committing to a lease or purchase, visit the site to ensure it meets your business needs. Assess foot traffic, visibility, parking, surrounding building conditions, blight and accessibility while checking for structural issues. Make a list of must-haves beforehand and take photos or videos during the visit for later review.
Property due diligence (title, environmental, property survey)
Property due diligence ensures a site meets expectations before signing a contract. It includes verifying ownership, assessing risks, obtaining a property condition report and reviewing the terms of the lease/purchase agreement. A design professional can help and be sure to consult Building Inspections to make an informed decision.
City Inspections
Seek financing
Before you can open your doors in hopes of generating revenue, there are hard (physical materials) and soft (labor) costs during the launching process. Consider methods to help cover early expenses. Common methods include self-financing, institutional business loans, investors (angel or venture capital), and grants.
Negotiate lease or purchase terms
Information from the property condition report and/or seller’s disclosure document obtained during your due diligence process can help you negotiate terms of lease or purchase. Work with your real estate professional or attorney to help you negotiate rates and repairs with the property manager or owner.
Obtain necessary approvals
After securing a site, occupancy permits are required before opening. Any rehabilitation of a building requires permits. A general contractor handles permits, but if you manage construction yourself, you’ll need permits for fire, mechanical, plumbing and electrical work. The permit holder is legally responsible for the building. There are also certain businesses that require a permit through the City, like a pawn shop. Check to see if your business needs a business license:
City of Battle Creek Business Licenses

Helpful Resources

City Planning & Zoning
The Planning and Zoning Division is responsible for long-range planning pertaining to growth and development in the city, particularly around land use, neighborhoods, commerce, industry, infrastructure, natural resources, transportation, and recreation.
Website
City Assessing
The City of Battle Creek Assessing Office annually values all taxable property at 50% of market value. Taxable properties include farms, homes, factories, commercial properties and vacant land. It also includes personal property for commercial and industrial businesses.
Website
City Code Compliance
The City of Battle Creek Code Compliance office work in neighborhoods to ensure compliance with the city’s housing code. The primary concern of these officials is helping property owners bring their property into compliance with the City Housing Code.
Website
City Inspections
The City of Battle Creek Inspections Division is responsible for enforcement of the State of Michigan Building, Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing codes for new construction and building renovations.
Website
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) continues to help small business owners and entrepreneurs pursue the American dream. SBA is the only cabinet-level federal agency fully dedicated to small business and provides counseling, capital, and contracting expertise as the nation’s only go-to resource and voice for small businesses.
Website

Lessons Learned: Step Four

Learn from the owners of Suipi’s East End Eatery, Chris Edwards Salon, Café Rica and La Loma Supermercado as they reflect back on moving into step four and working through the site selection and approval process, learned about property due diligence, secured financing, and negotiated their businesses’ lease terms.

phase: construction

Step Five: Design & Construction Estimates

If your retail space requires renovations or a custom buildout, hire licensed design professionals to create a layout that enhances the shopping experience and complies with all safety and accessibility requirements, such as ADA standards and fire codes. Work with contractors and architects to thoroughly develop detailed specifications and cost estimates. Cost estimates will help determine the scope of the project and help identify financial needs.

Tasks

Hire design professionals
A design professional (architect or engineer) creates plans that turn concepts into functional, code-compliant plan sets. Plan sets are utilized for submission to Planning & Zoning, Building Inspections, help determine budget and plan for future needs.
AIA Architects List
Seek plan approval
Submit your plan sets for review with your local planning office. The office will ensure your plans align with regulations. Once your plan has been reviewed and approved by the planning department, they will share them with the inspections department for review and approvals. If your project requires an authorization from the Department of Public Works, the planning department will ensure they have access.
Obtain construction estimates
Decide how you’ll manage your construction project—by doing it yourself, working with a design professional, or hiring a commercial general contractor. Once you’ve chosen a path, create a detailed Request for Proposal (RFP) outlining your project scope, materials, and methods, and solicit bids. Ask contractors for documentation of licensing, insurance, OSHA records, EMR, and portfolios with past work and resumes. Share your RFP through job boards, builder associations, and local construction groups.
Hire contractors
Narrow your bids to the top prospects and evaluate their experience, reputation, and knowledge of local codes using the materials from the RFP process. Verify licenses, insurance, past work, and safety history, using resources like the Better Business Bureau. Once you’ve made your choice, work with an attorney to draft a detailed contract outlining payment terms and insurance details.

Helpful Resources

American Institute of Architects (AIA) Southwest Michigan
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is the voice of the architectural profession, dedicated to serving its members, advancing their value, and improving the quality of the built environment. For a listing of firms within the chapter, visit the job board page of the AIA Southwest MI website.
Website
The Blue Book Building & Construction Network
The Blue Book is an indispensable resource within the construction industry, facilitating connections between project decision-makers, subcontractors and other service providers nationwide.
Website
City Code Compliance
The City of Battle Creek Code Compliance office work in neighborhoods to ensure compliance with the city’s housing code. The primary concern of these officials is helping property owners bring their property into compliance with the City Housing Code.
Website
City Inspections
The City of Battle Creek Inspections Division is responsible for enforcement of the State of Michigan Building, Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing codes for new construction and building renovations.
Website
City Planning & Zoning
The Planning and Zoning Division is responsible for long-range planning pertaining to growth and development in the city, particularly around land use, neighborhoods, commerce, industry, infrastructure, natural resources, transportation, and recreation.
Website

Lessons Learned: Step Five

Learn from the owners of Café Rica, Plumeria Botanical Boutique, and La Loma Supermercado as they moved through Step Five of opening their businesses and had to seek plan approval, obtain construction estimates, secure financing, and hire contractors.

phase: construction

Step Six: Permits, Construction & Inspections

If your retail business involves building or renovating, secure the necessary construction permits and work with licensed contractors to complete the project. No demolition or construction can start before planned review is completed by Planning/Zoning and Building Inspections. If no renovations are required to begin operations, ensure your workspace meets all regulatory requirements by scheduling a safety inspection and seeking zoning approval.

Tasks

Zoning approval
Zoning approval requirements depend on the type of project and local ordinances. New construction must undergo a full review by planning, building inspections, and public works. Changes to existing buildings—such as use, landscaping, lighting, or parking—also require approval. Additional rules may apply based on the location, such as projects in Fort Custer Industrial Park needing Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU) approval first. Pre-development meetings are strongly recommended and offered at no cost.
Schedule Pre-development Meeting
Apply for Approvals
Building Inspections approval
Building permits are required for all construction—new or existing—to ensure code compliance. After zoning approval, new projects move to the Inspections Division for permits and inspections. For work on existing structures, contact the Inspections Department to confirm specific requirements. All permits must be submitted online through BS&A.
Permits and Contact Information
Department of Public Works (DPW) approval
DPW approvals are conditional, and most often required in new construction projects rather than rehabilitation projects. You’ll learn if these are required through the zoning and building inspections process. For existing buildings/structures, approvals may be required depending on the needs and extent of project renovations.
DPW Permits
Occupancy permit
A Certificate of Occupancy is required to legally occupy any building or structure in the City of Battle Creek. It confirms compliance with local zoning and building codes and is needed for new construction or when changes occur to a building. Apply online via the City of Battle Creek website and submit payment through BS&A, by scanning and paying in person, or by submitting everything directly at City Hall.
Certificate of Occupancy Permit Application

Helpful Resources

City Planning & Zoning
The Planning and Zoning Division is responsible for long-range planning pertaining to growth and development in the city, particularly around land use, neighborhoods, commerce, industry, infrastructure, natural resources, transportation, and recreation.
Website
City Applications & Petitions
The City Applications & Petitions page is provided by the Planning and Zoning Division. Applications are submitted online through BS&A. Payments for permits can be cash, check, money order, and credit card. Payments are accepted in-person, by mail, and electronically.
Website
City Department of Public Works (DPW)
The City of Battle Creek’s Department of Public Works oversees vital infrastructure and environmental services, including wastewater collection and treatment, street and utility system maintenance, drinking water production, and park upkeep. They also manage the city’s vehicle fleet and support environmental investigations on city-owned property.
Website
City Inspections
The City of Battle Creek Inspections Division is responsible for enforcement of the State of Michigan Building, Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing codes for new construction and building renovations.
Website

Lessons Learned: Step Six

Learn from the owners of Café Rica, Plumeria Botanical Boutique, and The Link as they look back on when they had to work through zoning approvals, building inspection approvals, and worked to obtain their occupancy permits.

phase: operation

Step Seven: operation

Once inspections are complete and permits are approved, stock your inventory, train your staff, and officially open your retail business. Focus on customer service, marketing campaigns, and maintaining your inventory levels. Continuously monitor sales performance and adjust your strategies to grow and sustain your business.

Tasks

Store set-up and operations
- STORE LAYOUT AND DESIGN – Create an appealing and functional store layout that optimizes traffic flow and showcases your products.
- INVENTORY MANAGEMENT – Implement a system to track stock levels, manage ordering, and prevent stock outs.
- POINT OF SALES (POS) SYSTEM – Choose and implement a POS system for processing transactions, managing inventory, and generating reports.
- CASH MANAGEMENT – Establish procedures for handling cash, managing receipts, and reconciling transactions.
- SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT – Develop relationships with suppliers, manage order fulfillment, and ensure timely delivery of goods.
- HOURS OF OPERATION – Decide when and what times would be best to reach your target audience.
Human resources and employee management
- HIRING AND TRAINING – Recruit qualified employees, provide comprehensive training, and set clear expectations.
- LEGAL AND REGULATORY COMPLIANCE – Follow State and Federal law related to wages, benefits and tax, and insurance withholding etc.
- EMPLOYEE SCHEDULING AND MANAGEMENT – Implement a scheduling system, track employee hours, and manage payroll.
- EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE MANGEMENT -Regularly evaluate employee performance, provide feedback, and address any concerns.
Marketing and customer service
- MARKETING STRATEGY – Develop a marketing plan to promote your store, attract customers, and build brand awareness.
- CUSTOMER SERVICE – Train employees to provide excellent customer service and create a positive shopping experience.
- RETURN AND EXCHANGE POLICY – Establish a clear and fair return and exchange policy to ensure customer satisfaction.
- LOYALTY PROGRAMS – Implement loyalty programs to reward repeat customers and encourage repeat business.
Technology and automation
- AUTOMATION – Utilize technology to automate tasks like inventory management, scheduling, and customer service.
- E-COMMERCE – Consider adding an e-commerce platform to expand your reach and offer online shopping options.
- DIGITAL MARKETING – Utilize social media, email marketing, and other digital channels to reach your target audience.
Annual licensing and inspections
Depending on the category your retail business falls under, it may be subjected to ongoing inspections and licensing renewals to ensure compliance with state and local regulations. Visit your municipal business license page and check with LARA to verify.

Helpful Resources

Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Michigan Small Business Development Center Southwest Region (SBDC) develops and maintains a comprehensive small business assistance program that provides counseling, training and secondary research services to promote business start-up, growth, innovation and product diversification to the seven counties it serves in Michigan.
Website
City of Battle Creek Small Business Development Office (SBDO)
The Small Business Development Office at the City of Battle Creek works with the community to attract, launch, and grow small businesses across Battle Creek.
Website
SCORE Kalamazoo/SW Michigan
SCORE Kalamazoo/Southwest Michigan SCORE is dedicated to helping you succeed. We provide FREE mentoring to new and established small businesses in Southwest Michigan. Find your mentor today.
Website
Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce
The Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce is the premier business association whose influence, solutions, and networks drive economic growth in the Battle Creek area, enabling businesses, community and people to prosper in an ever-changing economy.
Website
City Business Licenses
Battle Creek keeps it simple and only requires licenses for a small, specific list of business types operating within the city limits. Unless your business falls into one of the specific, regulated categories, you won’t need a city license just to operate. A quick glance at the official list will tell you if you need one
Website
Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)
Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) protects people and promotes business in Michigan through transparent and accessible regulatory solutions.
Website

Lessons Learned: Step Seven

Learn from the owners of Café Rica, Plumeria Botanical Boutique, Chris Edwards Salon, and La Loma Supermercado as they look back on when they finished through the steps to open their businesses and started focusing on store set-up & operations, human resources & employee management, marketing & customer service, and technology & automation.

Retail Business

phase: planning

Step One: Research & business plan

Tasks

Helpful Resources

Lessons Learned: Step One

phase: planning

Step Two: form your entity

Tasks

Helpful Resources

Lessons Learned: Step Two

phase: location

Step Three: choose your location

Tasks

Helpful Resources

Lessons Learned: Step Three

phase: location

Step Four: Site selection & approval

Tasks

Helpful Resources

Lessons Learned: Step Four

phase: construction

Step Five: Design & Construction Estimates

Tasks

Helpful Resources

Lessons Learned: Step Five

phase: construction

Step Six: Permits, Construction & Inspections

Tasks

Helpful Resources

Lessons Learned: Step Six

phase: operation

Step Seven: operation

Tasks

Helpful Resources

Lessons Learned: Step Seven

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