What Makes The Perfect Record Store?

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This video is twofold: one, an update about our hunt for the record store location; and two, asking for your feedback about what makes a great record store, space wise. What kind of layouts, design, visual planning, locations, etc. As we continue looking for our space, we want to know what you like about other stores so we can try to find somewhere perfect
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[@TooManyRecords]

Please leave a comment with the things we should keep an eye out for when scouting the perfect location/space!

[@CrazyLazyDave]

An old Church

[@bassicly4250]

You don't need a stage. It's a waste of space. You need to have a space you can clear out like the junk records bins on wheels you can cart out of the way.

[@semperfi-1918]

Location with high traffick.

[@recordlounge]

I've been in business for 13 years now and am the only female sole owned record shop in Michigan. When I opened i found a space in East Lansing across from Michigan State University. I thought it was a no brainer but that ended up being the hardest area to start a small biz. Students are the majority of the traffic but summers were dead , anytime they had breaks that affected business. I ended up moving to a up and coming neighborhood a few miles away and was the best thing ever. Ive now expanded a bunch and business is booming and rent is so much cheaper. I wish you guys good luck

[@TooManyRecords]

That's a great anecdote and worth thinking about, for sure. Congrats on all the success.

[@recordlounge]

You guys are doing this the right way no need to hurry the space you guys want and need are key location is what its all about , well also having great stock is also major .

[@King15Queen17gmail]

Whats it called and where

[@Justinmeatybonds]

A few of my initial thoughts. Good luck! - Multiple listening stations - Crates not overly stuffed so you can flip with ease - Stools for digging down low - Clean and as dust free as possible - Good smells (incense, candles, essential oils) - If no public RR, a recommendation for somewhere to go nearby - Seating for our loved ones that we drag to record stores with us 😅

[@andyfischer2981]

I'm sure you guys will find the perfect location - my biggest thing is the vibe of the store, which I know you'll CRUSH. Friendly, knowledgable employees are KEY.

[@TooManyRecords]

That's our ethos!

[@rockabillyproject8266]

My must haves for a music store include a Grail/Rare wall, listening stations, vinyl accessories (sleeves, cleaners, store swag, etc), wide aisles with bins separated by genre to include a Audiophile MFSL section, warm white light lighting, and a bathroom of course.

[@BrianCoonley]

I love a record store where when I enter I'm greeted by a friendly face who offers to help, and also a store I'm not overwhelmed by records the minute I step in the store. I really like the opportunity to be able to just glance around the store and see what they have. Even if the new releases are near the front door, for example, I prefer them not to be right in front of me when I walk in. It gets me a bit overwhelmed and sometimes prevents me from digging as much as I normally would. Keep hustling in your dream of a store will be here before you know it.

[@laurarwhittaker]

Just about jumped when I saw my local in the thumbnail!! Tommy Gun Records is one of our very few record store gems in Tasmania (Australia). Not a huge shop but it goes back a long way. Having new releases + artists spread out at the front, with secondhand in a separate room at the back, means you can gravitate where you want without feeling cramped. Handwritten signage and a designated wall/space for merch are nice personal touches too. It’s an awesome communal feeling when you take your Tommy Gun tote bag back to fill up, or see a stranger on the street wearing one of their shirts! With tons of passion and knowledge between you guys, your future store will no doubt be a pillar of the Portland music community. Can’t wait to hear more and best wishes in the hunt for your new space! 🤞

[@TooManyRecords]

I was looking for random record stores on google images and this one struck me, that's wild that it's your store!! Thank you so much for the thoughtful comment, and we're doing totes and shirts in the crowdfund that we'll have available in store too.

[@mikepotter3802]

I'd say one thing many stores are missing these days are preorders for new limited releases. I'm not sure what can be done about it without jacking up the cost to insert the store as a middle man, but when people want a special release or a particular variant, most cases they have to go directly to the band. I prefer to give my business to the local shop, but when the release I want is only available online, that's what I do.

[@tylerchisman9434]

I'd say neighborhood is big. Been to shops where the shop is great but the area is sketchy. Not preferred but in that case the store is worth the weirdos I might see or have to walk past. In terms of store layout using most of the wall space is always cool to see. I really like the idea you have about rare walls for each section. Some stores I've been to have done cool murals to make a statement wall. Some I've seen do some nice interior string lights to give a nice ambience. I also notice the quality of a stores bins. Always really nice to see quality bins to flip through. A small stool/ library seat is always appreciated to for those low digging moments. That's all that comes to my mind right now. Hope you find a killer space!

[@jacemclain4062]

Probably a no-brainer, but enough shelf space for all the records while being able to comfortably flip through them. There's record stores I won't go to just because everything is crammed into the shelves so hard that the browsing experience isn't pleasant.

[@sailornamaste997]

I appreciate a record store with a parking lot. Here in Milwaukee, a lot of parking is on the street. I also appreciate a location that’s close to other things. So if I’m already out and about, I can swing into the shop.

[@brokenSceneVids]

Amoeba is king but they have an emporium sized space that wows ppl. Theming could be a good idea for a smaller space. Outer space/ufo or jungle theme would be interesting . Living room theme with couches everywhere. The skies the limit

[@deaneverest]

Space, nothing worse than going into a record store and feel like you're fighting for browsing space with someone else, especially in the current climate. A seated area is also good, as others have mentioned when you're with a partner or children it's good to have a small area for them to chill for an hour or two, ha ha. Again, as others have mentioned, being close to other shops that may be of similar interest to either record shoppers or their partners, a coffee place is always a good one, plus bookshops etc I've never visisted, as im in the UK, but Noble Records seems to have covered at least the frst two points from looking at his videos/website. Anyway Matt, hope you find a space soon, and I wish you all the luck, not that you'll need it. Cheers Dean

[@TooManyRecords]

oh I'll always need it.

[@randytoth4350]

Parking is a plus. Store with character, music playing, great knowledgeable staff. Definitely new used arrivals sections, and well laid out with artist or genre tabs. These are what my favorite stores have! Good luck on your journey!!!

[@SaintMartins]

*1. Diversify:* not only sell Vinyl, but also CDs, DVD's, BluRays, books, posters, t-shirts, toys. As much as you can fit inside. *2. Also as many music categories as possible:* Don't ignore classical, blues, soul, jazz. Older people 35+ still buy physical media more than younger cats. *3. Location & transportation:* Lots of parking or close to bus stops & subway stations. Popular/ hip parts of the city. Also close to popular business' like fast food or coffee shops 'cause if there's no room to drink there they'll head to your store, a place to hang out while sippin' their coffee. *4. The environment:* don't play music too loud in the store. Not everyone has the same taste in music, people can easily get annoyed & leave. If you play weird experimental music like side B of Lou Reed's "metal machine music", Jazz or Black Metal people will exit quickly.

[@TheSharkAnt]

1. I think record stores should also sell cassette tapes and audio equipment. 2. I feel like reggae, electronic, hip-hop, and country records are also essential records for record stores to be selling.

[@levionyoutube9290]

I like a store that is in town, if I'm coming to the store with someone I want to be able to walk to grab lunch after. And for your sake, i think you guys really want window shoppers as well.

[@TooManyRecords]

What would you want in the windows?

[@tomdecola5988]

Hopefully better luck comes your way on the hunt! Couple things I like in a store are not having to crate dig on full size wall bookshelves. As much as you can get the top load bins. Digging for stuff high up or even really low to the ground by looking at the record spine is a nightmare. Make it a comfortable dig especially for the $1 bin type stuff that you are likely going to have tons of and want to move. Make the aisles wide enough that you dont have to move out of the way to let people thru or suck in your gut, etc. Lots of lighting especially in the store recesses. Maybe some extra shelving above bins that folks that are buying a lot can put their other purchases on as they dig. As for location, folks will travel for a good place. I go regularly to a place 40 mins away because they have a great selection and its a comfortable dig. I get you want Lots of foot traffic but you'll get traffic because it will be a good experience for folks.

[@TooManyRecords]

All very wise words, and thank you for your contribution that I just saw!

[@rdrgtreer]

I love any store with a water dispenser!

[@grapefruitplussoda]

Wonderful bathrooms!

[@TooManyRecords]

Classic Roland

[@triplelindys]

Make sure you have a big enough back room. Between processing shipments and sending out records from online sales, you need the space in the back to do that. You don't want to be doing that stuff on the floor.

[@TooManyRecords]

Valid point. I could always process those from home though, worst case scenario.

[@strappingonthatjammypac5933]

Record stores with small compact layouts are my favorite, it feels more personal that way

[@TooManyRecords]

Interesting perspective, can you elaborate? I don't like stores where you feel like you're squished between the bins, or on top of other people digging. It's gonna be tough to do a really small space because of the stage too..

[@strappingonthatjammypac5933]

@@TooManyRecords One of my favorite stores is stinkweeds (In Arizona). It’s not squished or absurdly small but in that sweet spot of being as big as it needs to be. When a record store is really huge and spaced out it’s personally harder to navigate and a lot of the time I’ll leave without even picking anything up.

[@TooManyRecords]

@@strappingonthatjammypac5933 Very interesting perspective. That might affect how we set up the actual bins, keep it tight, and then have the stage to the side.

[@joshd2597]

@@TooManyRecords need to make sure you’re profitable before you take the plunge.. make sure your overhead is as little as possible in the beginning. Limited to One is tiny but have excellent concerts.

[@TooManyRecords]

@@joshd2597 I've sadly never been to their shows, how do they do it? I can't imagine more than 15 people in there... plus the band?

[@natalie_rose2861]

I consider a record stores comfort level being super important, the lighting being mellow, not extremely bright but not dreary, a good amount of parking (not just parallel), spacious enough to flip through records w/o being back to back with someone flipping through the next row(that's the worst to me). Oh & the buildings where all the spaces kinda blend together & make it hard for them to stand apart from one another is probably something to consider too. I hate when I'm looking for a place & I pass it multiple times because it blends in so much with the stores around it.

[@TooManyRecords]

Taking notes :)

[@anthonys4159]

Go check out the St. Johns area. There are lots of empty spaces over there and the neighborhood is very walkable.

[@TooManyRecords]

And one of my favorite shops, Final Form, is there too. Synergy!!

[@janoskis2725]

My three favourite record stores in Budapest are all in basements, but they all have windows facing the street, so they do not feel like caves. Also it's nice having an arched ceiling, it gives the space a certain ambiance. I can echo what Nick Doheny said about the performance area. Don't make it a priority, at least not in the beginning. It can just be in a corner. Maybe a few of the bins can be on wheels to make space for the "stage" when there is a band performing, but arranging them back afterwards. I'd also not be afraid of the lack of a lot of natural light. A few well placed lamps or unique light fixtures can lend a ton of character to a shop, and if the space is a little darker by default, it relieves your worry about the sun warping your records. I was never deterred from a record store if it had too little natural light (as long as it wasn't actually dark). I'm sorry your last space fell through. I hope you'll find a good one soon. Maybe after all the comments here you'll make a few adjustments (compromisies?) to your search and it'll be sooner than you expect :)

[@TooManyRecords]

Thank you my friend.

[@rwink211]

Have a connection for outdoor speakers and monitor for events. If people are waiting on line, or the store is at capacity and there is overflow, people outside can hear and see what’s going on. After the event, disconnect the gear and bring into the back room

[@mikealexander8542]

Are you getting advice from existing record-store owners as far as your business model goes? Also, is a performance space really that important? Doesn’t that limit your rental options?

[@TooManyRecords]

Yes, I am. And yes, it is -- I want to provide local artists a place to perform and if they're amazing, I want to sign 'em to the TMR label and press them to vinyl.

[@steinjansen]

Good luck with the record store:)

[@MegaCologne2011]

1. Coffee @ a in store coffee table 2. New arrivals 3. dollar bins 4. chats to other customers

[@BlacqueJacqueShellacque_]

I like used and new records kept seperate. Makes it easier when I'm looking for a new release or if I want to dig around for something off my list in the used section. Good luck.

[@TooManyRecords]

Noted. This will be something we go into in a future video about organization of bins.

[@tacobor]

My favorite record store so far is Guestroom in Norman, OK. Yes it is kind of tight but the ambience of the store makes it. It's lit well over the bins so you can inspect unsealed records well. The light is not overpowering. Yo me that helps make the store more home like. It's located right in the middle of downtown. The perfect location . A lot of the more popular restaurants in town as well as a couple artsy stores occupy the nearby buildings so there are reasons for people to be in the area rather than just the record store. Other aspects of the store itself that are nice is that in the front window area of the store is a lounge area for people to take time to relax. On the fist part of the far wall are all of the accessories (crates, cleaning supplies, stylii, head shells and cartridges and things) further down that wall is a section for refurbished equipment. I got my Technics turntable there for less than an LP-60. The rest of that wall is dedicated to cassettes and CDs in the bins. The front center bis are dedicated to new stuff they bought from people as well as local artists. By local I mean all of Oklahoma. The new stuff starts on the left front wall past the checkout area and works left to right with used records mixed in. The artwork/Posters on the walls add so much to the vibe in the store. As does the music they choose to play in store. I saved the best for last. The staff really takes the time to get to know the regular customers. That way they can bond with them over music and make recommendations. After a while I could barter/trade for some things because they knew me.

[@TooManyRecords]

An area for people to relax/listen to music is something we'd really like to have.

[@TheAgeOfAnalog]

Greetings Tim. I own Oil Capital Vinyl in Tulsa. Check me out on the socials and stop by the store if you're ever in town.

[@vibeology9432]

I live in paris and the best record shops are near other record shops. It creates a great experience. So even if your store is the best and I’m sure it will be, being close to others will help. IMHO Don’t forget to have a divas section! I noticed USA record shops are very “bro” heavy, rock- rap - country But Europe has way more diva sections or even devoted stores. Gays are buying vinyl in record amounts.

[@griffinslack741]

Good luck on this man, I know you’ll do Portland a great service by making an amazing record store-looking forward to visiting it when it opens!

[@TooManyRecords]

I appreciate that, Griffin

[@TheAgeOfAnalog]

"medical" marijuana passed here in Oklahoma shortly before I started to look for a space for my store, back in early 2019, so most of the affordable 1000SqFt (ish) were suddenly taken. I found a good space very close to my home, but I'm thinking about moving, even if it's closer to the other record stores in town.

[@riverman4987]

You mention the C word a few times, but the harsh truth is that you will need to compromise on something. If you hold out for the perfect space it could take years. Maybe you need to make a list of the 10 main things you want, in order of preference, and think about compromising on the ones lowest on the list. Don't get too hung up about layout, that will be dictated by the space itself. 100%+++ on the idea of a relaxing area for folks who are accompanying the browser, and just want to sit down and unwind while they browse. This will relax the person browsing, give them more time, and hopefully allow them to spend more money...this can also double as a performance space if carefully laid out. Don't underestimate the storage space you will need, you will run out of space, and you don't want to schlepp excess stock home and store it there...after all you need that space for your own records. Good luck with the search, it will all come together, and you will love it.

[@ScottTice1971]

PDX is tough for locations… I’m thinking close the the MAX and streetcar would be a big bonus. Sellwood, Westmoreland, Woodstock… maybe lower Division, Brooklyn even downtown Milwaukie. Even crazier Broadway, Vancouver|Williams|Mississippi. The Pearl. Downtown might have some vacancy but after recent events I think I’d want to avoid it. Might be a few years before it recovers. As far as the performance area make sure that it’s a flex space. I know this feature is high on your list but you either want a music venue or a retail record store. Ask yourself if live performances are going to draw people in that will make a purchase, if not then concentrate on what is going to pay the lease. I’m guessing it’s not live performances. Now if your parking lot is large enough to throw up a stage a few times per year for an open house or sale… that might be worth considering.

[@ericremington3815]

Regardless of the size of a space, there needs to be space between the inventory. I'd prefer some reasonable space between me and other diggers. 4 feet maybe. If I am in your store, I move A to Z. I hit your new arrivals. I know what I am looking for, but open to surprises. I am going into the zone, so I just want to listen 🎶 to what you have playing, but not so loud I can't talk to someone with me. Clean space and restrooms is very important to females.

[@MichaelGilboe]

Since you are talking about live performances, might I suggest some record racks on wheels that you can move to the sides or back to accommodate more people without just needing more floor space.

[@joshua1332]

There was a record store in Wheaton Maryland named Phantasmagoria Records that did this. All the racks were wheeled out to the sides for shows at night.

[@TooManyRecords]

It's a great idea.

[@guiseppppe]

As a customer, I don't really care where it is. As a record store owner, it has to be somewhat in the center of town. Or a buzzing part at least. As for the space, I appreciate a good room to move, easy to understand categorizations and cleanliness. As in I don't like having to get down on the ground and go through whatever it is. And if I do, I want to be able to sit where I won't bother anybody else.

[@nathanswaffar9600]

I love a warehouse-type feel. For some reason, in my opinion, adds to the digging factor, Makes you feel like you're actually digging through something in like an old warehouse or something like that. Maybe that makes sense, but maybe it doesn't. Just in my opinion it adds to the digging factor.

[@TooManyRecords]

Definitely won't have the funds for a gigantic warehouse type store at first, ha!

[@PaulGiraldo]

Maybe a space that is conducive to great acoustics for experiencing music, windows/area to admire/lust at the art covers, welcoming surroundings and bright sunny inside (as opposed to some dark and dingy stores with the same 30 y/o inside decor and store front), and near other shopping. I listen to vinyl however I dont find record stores appealing so I seldom visit them.

[@geoffz]

Put the store in Beaverton! Plenty of parking, easy to get to (unless you live deep in Gresham), no competition, etc.

[@TooManyRecords]

I'm in north east-ish, so that commute would be rough day in and day out.

[@t3dewys]

I love new arrival sections. I go often enough that I don’t want to dig through every crate in the store to find what is new. I also love staff selections with a brief printout of why that was selected. That is the only way I buy blind, and so far I’ve found some great stuff that way.

[@TooManyRecords]

Yeah, there'll be a whole video on price tags/labeling/grading and what people prefer once we lock in the space.

[@cmvb69]

Im sure you've answered before, but what state are you in ?

[@sinfullXIII]

I love well lite stores, with decent parking in and around the area. I also love one that hase enoigh space to dog and doesnt feel too cramped. If there is multi levels that's awesome!

[@hifijunkieTX]

The best record stores I've been in have been well-organized, cozy, and ALWAYS have something playing. Having a store system that is pretty good will make a big difference, especially if you will spin a rarity for a customer on request for a bit to give them a listen. If it's cozy and relaxing, with space to actually connect with the music a bit, people will spend a lot more time there, rather than just flipping through real quick and leaving. Make it a place to hang out at, not just to shop - I think the idea of hosting concerts is a good step in that direction - but maybe could utilize the space for an audio system when there aren't performances, so it isn't just empty space. And don't neglect jazz records :P - this is a big shortcoming of 90% of all the record stores I've ever been to - including in NYC and various locations in California (including Amoeba). Tend to be very light on Jazz, especially vintage, even on their rare walls. I've had to resort to ordering all my Jazz from Japan since I can hardly find anything stateside that isn't a modern repress (which are SUPER hit and miss with quality). Best of luck on the store! I know I always had a thought in my head about how fun it would be to open one. I'd love to do a mix between a Jazz cafe in Japan and a store - really great sound system to enjoy music on, a small bar and seating, and shelves of carefully curated music. :D

[@whatupmexican]

Decommodify housing and land.

[@boscocfh]

Parking!!! Alot of the the record stores in big cites have crappy parking options.

[@TooManyRecords]

Yeah, a few of the spaces we've looked at suffered from that as well.

[@mercurialmagictrees]

It's good you didn't get ripped off by that land lord. It's better to be patient. I like record stores that are close to coffee shops and book stores.

[@mercurialmagictrees]

I think a lounge area with a table and chairs would be good for people to take a closer look at some albums and a good place to make trade ins easier.

[@christianjackson9360]

Only one question, though. WHERE IS IT AT?

[@katoduck]

I'm partial to the westside, but that maybe because I live out here, lol...

[@stevencacciaroni6415]

Hi - long time follower since the Damnit Sandy days.... The perfect record store, to me would include this criteria: 1. IMPORTS. What's missing from most great indie stores is the availability pf imports from Japan, UK, Germany, etc. / 2. Collectible used vinyl. Someone walks in and sees their grail wishlist items on that collectible wall, like at Amoeba. / 3. Used items that are in great shape vs. taking up space with tattered vinyl records. Can't sustain a business if the $1 bin takes up 1/3 of the store (example: I don't love Mono Records, Glendale). / 4. Need to do more than have a store of new re-issues you could find at Barnes and Noble, Target, etc. / 5. The biggest no-no would be to buy a Target colored exclusive and sell it at the store for 5 X the cost. 6. More records than toys (Funko Pop, etc.) Hope this helps.

[@TooManyRecords]

Can't agree more with 2, 3, and 4. The tagline we have for the store is "Cratediggers, expect the unexpected" ;)

[@stevencacciaroni6415]

@@TooManyRecords I'll shop the store for sure. I come up to Portland

[@DesertBurst92]

Easy and cheap/free parking East to spot genre signage The best record stores have a personality in the atmosphere and are fun places to hang out.

[@TooManyRecords]

Our goal is to make it a fun place to hang out. What kind of things help build personality, to you? Also what do you mean by genre signage? Within the bin sections?

[@DesertBurst92]

​@@TooManyRecords I think layout and decor help a lot. But it is also the vibe that the staff give off. All 3 Amoebas are a cool places to be because of both. I can name other stores that don't do one or both that have great selections but are a a drag to shop in. Meaning it is easy see which section is where right as I walk into the store.

[@bradleykay]

Have as many well kept listening stations as you can fit in your space. It’s a challenge to buy used unless there’s a listening station.

[@TooManyRecords]

I have a solution for this, for a future video!

[@colinsebastian1026]

Do you really need a stage? I've been to so many shows at record stores where they just play on the floor ala a basement show, and it never seems to be an issue.

[@TooManyRecords]

A stage is symbolic. At least a space for performances is what we mean.

[@bluecream444]

Is there a easier way to inspect clear vinyl records? Thanks

[@TooManyRecords]

Unfortunately not, gotta just look under a good light

[@bluecream444]

@@TooManyRecords thanks! Clear records are a pain to see anything.

[@juliakirkpatrick9429]

Setbacks happen, you guys will find the perfect space.

[@nickdoheny2787]

Sorry to hear you didn’t get your first choice. The right space will find you, I’m sure of that. My advice is don’t get too hung up on having a space with a stage for live shows. I love the idea of promoting local artists but a stage might not be necessary. My favorite local record shop I had in DC growing up was small. It had a tiny but clean space upstairs for the store and downstairs was literally a small room/large closet with no windows and no stage, but all the local legends of the scene plugged in and played to us literally inches from our faces. Fugazi, Unrest, and Jawbox all played to a room of about 15-20 people with no frills. My point is you don’t need an elaborate set up for bands to play. Look at the tiny desk concerts. Just having a corner in your store will do the trick. If over time the community and the local scene embraces your store then you can expand but in my opinion your primary focus should be the store and the records. Other than that. If you’re not downtown, make sure there’s plenty of parking and you’re close to a freeway exit and have wi-fi so people can use their phones.

[@TooManyRecords]

I think that is pure wisdom and something Roland and I will keep in mind. It's hard finding the perfect intersection of location/price/size/layout, but knowing that we can make shows work anywhere is something we need to take to heart.

[@monaural2.988]

Friendliness, first and foremost. Recognize the good customers, toss the troublemakers out. And have plenty of DOLLAR discs! One man’s junk is another’s treasure! 😛

[@jroc242]

Not knowing your exact location that you’re looking at within the Portland area. What is the amount of homeless or encampments around your region that might be prohibitive from clientele aspects?

[@TooManyRecords]

Portland's homelessness problem is certainly no secret to anyone, just like most major cities in the USA right now. We aren't planning on putting our store anywhere that has a large amount of encampments surrounding it.

[@anthonybest7193]

That’s a bummer that the space that y’all had your hearts set on didn’t work out ☹️ as for recommendations on space/layout, I really don’t have any; y’all know I’m gonna be a regular patron of the store regardless! Definitely have those rare record walls poppin cause as I’ve mentioned, that’s a niche in Portland that isn’t really sufficiently filled haha

[@TooManyRecords]

We will have the best rare record wall in the PNW!!!

[@adamkinowski2354]

Sorry to hear about the setback. Perhaps one-day popup shops in the community could be a way to bridge the gap between now and the day you have a brick and mortar store? Generate some funding while also giving you a sampling of different neighborhoods of Portland. Also a great way to publicize the upcoming store opening so those same customers come back.

[@TooManyRecords]

It's a great idea, but give me a damn team to work with. Roland and I already juggle full time jobs, plus the store stuff LOL

[@grapefruitplussoda]

This is a very solid idea - the idea of popup shops/record fairs to bridge the gap.

[@TooManyRecords]

@@grapefruitplussoda We'll connect on this next time we get together.

[@cmvb69]

I wonder if you could add a place to play your record after you buy it, just an idea

[@TooManyRecords]

I have many thoughts about listening stations and I’ll share those in future videos

[@oldskool1979]

Start in a warehouse with parking, on a sidestreet.. forget about the high traffic main street area ! Your job is to build alot of inventory and make a name first !

[@TooManyRecords]

I'd like to think I started making a name 7 years ago when I started this channel!

[@oldskool1979]

@@TooManyRecords Sure on the WWW but making a name locally is another thing...

[@MikeKovalesky]

The stores I like here in Michigan (Detroit and throughout the state), allow for enough room to search for what your looking for even while crowded. A sitting area would be nice, as others have suggested, for the less interested family members that come with us. One store, Dearborn Music, a wall for new releases and walls for the in demand used vinyl. All the stores here are located in a business district with access to parking or on premise parking. For you, I would think the neighborhood you choose would be as important as location. What part of Portland are you looking at? I wish you the best and I hope to get out there once you’re open. I hope this helps!

[@TooManyRecords]

We're looking most areas but ideally east side.

[@SexyBabyRecords]

did you open your space yet? I can't wait till you see NNN and the standard 3% increase in commercial rent every year ... and then you'll wonder how can brick and mortar price things and how Amazon only marks up $5 per unit which doesnt even match the MSLP

[@King15Queen17gmail]

Jack whites third man records in Detroit has all that your looking to do. Maybe your having the wrong dream. Look into getting a designer, a architects, find a plot of land with the realtor. Take out a loan and build a new store. Put a down payment for the loan. Build the store your way.

[@icollectstuff-vinylcommuni7294]

Discogs is the best record store :)

[@mobilereef]

If you want the input of a guy who spends a TON of money at record shops, size does not matter. Décor does not matter. The inventory is everything, and feeling like I am getting a bit of a deal on the way out the door is always appreciated by anyone. Good luck, don't overspend and just move a ton of good inventory.

[@TooManyRecords]

Words to live by.

[@Richbroth]

A clean and interesting decor matters.

[@fsalgado39]

Maybe near a university, definitely high demographic is young peeps

[@TooManyRecords]

That'd definitely be a perk, although in Portland I feel like our demographic is in a lot of locations (very good town for music/small biz support!)

[@fsalgado39]

Also instead of a big shop maybe start out small or medium and hopefully they have a back space big enough to have that space for artists not inside but maybe outside of the shop

[@TooManyRecords]

@@fsalgado39 An outdoor space would be great but then you deal with a lot of zoning/permit issues I think..

[@jasoncastor8535]

The record store I go to, the layout of the record area is shaped like a horse shoe with the new arrivals right in the middle, this way ever section is seen and you don’t miss anything but the flow of people traffic is still smooth

[@TooManyRecords]

I dig that. The layout I imagined in the space we were going after was similar.

[@lauher21]

I will buy a van then we can have record store out of a van like home boy shopping network lol

[@TooManyRecords]

LOL that's very Portland.

[@fizzlebomber674]

i dont think people have a favorite record store. Most times I got digging, I won't even find a single record to buy. Most cities across the United States, probably just have a couple within a 30 mile radius. The ones in my area, I sure as hell wouldn't say that any of em are worthy.

[@black_umbrella_design]

It's a challenge to have a space where sunlight is not destroying everything but the store still doesn't feel like a cave. Makes me sick when I see stuff sitting in the sun. Whether it's books or music, the key to a great store is surprises. It's the occasional finds that let you know that the owner is knowledgeable and takes pride in the store. When you walk into a store and see all the usual inventory, it's boring. Even if the store is only strong in one particular area, at least they have a personality. Plus parking. Parking is everything.

[@TooManyRecords]

I, too, feel sick when records are baking in the sun. And yes, we know parking is key. The first spot we ever looked at was AMAZING on every single factor except parking. Even the landlord said it might be the worst parking situation in the entire state LOL - we had to pass.