Course Description
Targeted to students interested in creating and growing their own retail business. This course is approached from a business perspective by combining the practical realities of creating and running a retail business through the operation of Couture a la Cart with the imaginative process that only successful entrepreneurs can cultivate.
Athena Title
Retail Entrepreneurship
Pre or Corequisite
TXMI 5240/7240 or TXMI 5240E/7240E or TXMI 5250
Semester Course Offered
Offered spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
1. Become prepared to open a small business and maintain financial success through smart planning, research, and creative merchandising techniques. 2. Develop and sustain a small business retail concept, Couture a la Cart, implemented in a mobile retail lab on the University's campus (NOTE: This mobile lab has been approved by UGA Auxiliary Services). 3. Gain first-hand experience developing a business plan with the following topics: location analysis, evaluating competition, consumers and loyalty, managing inventory and cash flow, merchandising buying, and planning. 4. Build confidence to create. The course will encourage students to take risks and possibly make mistakes in the search for innovative ideas. Students will problem solve and critically analyze opportunities in the market place. 5. Identify entrepreneurial opportunities from emerging trends occurring in business practices. 6. Identify regulations impacting the future of small business and become familiar with the local resources supporting entrepreneurial endeavors. 7. Compare the successes and challenges of past iterations of CALC and create a plan for future success as a business owner by setting realistic goals.
Topical Outline
1. Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Local Small Business Owners 2. Analyzing the Product 3. Researching the Industry, Regional and Local Market 4. Strategic Planning from Entry to Exit 5. Location Analysis 6. Online Retailing and Entrepreneurship 7. Strategies for Penetrating the Market 8. Merchandise Planning and Buying 9. Selecting a Business Entity 10. Understanding the Financial Plans 11. Developing and Operating Control Systems 12. Planning Growth Strategies
Syllabus