I am interested in finding resources on running a retail store from an
operations viewpoint, like a STORE OPERATIONS 101 class. I don't need
any information on business plans, marketing plans, customer needs,
etc. The only thing I'm interested in is the actual day-to-day
operations of a retail store. For example, what activities need to
happen each day, how to estimate daily staffing level requirements,
what policies are needed (returns, check writing, etc.), what types of
daily reports need to be run and reviewed, etc. I was hoping to find
an introductory manual or videotape from a retail trade association
but the only ones I found cost several thousand dollars. The store
will sell food products, like a grocery store or gourmet market, but
with very few perishable products. Web links to pubilcly available
data would be best, links to resources that can be ordered for less
than $100 are also ok.

check out the website of the ex GM of harbey Norman Super stores -
Tont Gattari www.retailachievers.com.au

Hello Victus,

I've spent some time searching for such resources, and what I found
was less than helpful.  As it happens, my husband is a retail store
operations manager, so I asked him where to find resources.

He tells me there are three ways to get the level of detail (which, on
the surface doesn't seem like much, but in reality translates to quite
a lot) you're looking for:

1)  Take a certification course in operations management
2)  Purchase the trade association books
3)  Learn by doing, coming up through the ranks

He explains that retail operations are complex, and the variables all
depend on the type and volume of business, company structure and
hierarchy, and suppliers, which is why the trade association manuals
are so expensive.

Perhaps another Researcher will have access to resources neither he
nor I are aware of.

Good luck!

--Missy

Hi, Victus:

If you live in Canada, or one of the border states, you may wish to
check out your nearest Canada Business Services Centre.  These are
centralised offices grouping various federal and provincial services
for small businesses and startups.  This may well include resources
similar to what you're describing; I've seen guides of that nature on
topics such as contracting companies, restaurants, etc.  I have not
specifically looked for anything on food retailing.

-Chromedome

if only you were asking about a service industry business!  I have
written operation and procedures manuals...  Anyway, I agree with
Missy, it's very complex, it's as if you are asking for a flow-chart. 
There's daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly tasks for every aspect of
an ongoing business.

May I suggest you call your local S.C.O.R.E. chapter and either get a
friendly soul on the phone, by email, or make an appointment to
discuss this with a retired retail store owner...

http://www.score.org/

Good Luck,
~~Cynthia