By: Business in Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach, situated in southeastern Virginia, attracts residents and tourists alike with its beautiful beaches and vibrant community. With a growing population and significant residential and commercial areas, it presents an excellent opportunity to start a discount store business. This article aims to provide insight into the prospects of the discount store industry in Virginia Beach, covering the initial investment, return on investment, and suitable locations for opening a discount store.

Population Distribution:

Virginia Beach has a diverse population spread across various neighborhoods. Some of the most populated and important residential areas include:

  1. Oceanfront: This area comprises the iconic resort strip and offers a mix of residential and commercial spaces, catering to both locals and tourists.
  2. Kempsville: Situated in the eastern part of the city, Kempsville is a historic area with a significant residential population.
  3. Town Center: Known for its modern architecture and urban lifestyle, Town Center is a popular neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial spaces.

Commercial Zones:

Virginia Beach boasts several bustling commercial areas that attract a considerable number of shoppers. Some notable commercial zones include:

  1. Lynnhaven Mall: As the largest shopping mall in Virginia Beach, Lynnhaven Mall draws crowds and presents an ideal location for a discount store due to its high foot traffic.
  2. Hilltop Shopping Center: Located in the central part of the city, Hilltop Shopping Center offers a variety of retail options, making it a suitable spot for a discount store.
  3. Pembroke Mall: Situated near the vibrant Town Center area, Pembroke Mall serves as a bustling shopping destination, attracting both locals and visitors.

Prospects of the Discount Store Industry in Virginia Beach:

The discount store industry in Virginia Beach holds promising potential due to the city’s growing population and the desire for affordable shopping options. Opening a discount store can cater to the local community’s needs while also attracting budgetconscious tourists. Additionally, Virginia Beach lacks a concentrated presence of discount stores, offering an opportunity for market entry and growth. With effective marketing strategies and competitive pricing, a discount store in Virginia Beach can attract a significant customer base.

Initial Investment and Return on Investment:

The initial capital required to open a discount store in Virginia Beach may vary depending on factors such as store size, location, and inventory. On average, a rough estimate for initial investment can range from $50,000 to $150,000, covering costs like lease deposits, store setup, fixtures, inventory, and marketing expenses.

Return on investment (ROI) is influenced by various factors, including store management, pricing, and customer demand. While it is challenging to provide an exact figure, a wellmanaged discount store in Virginia Beach can achieve a considerable ROI within a few years, especially if it caters to the needs of the diverse local population and tourists.

Suitable Discount Store Locations:

When considering opening a discount store in Virginia Beach, the following locations are worth considering due to their high population density and commercial activity:

  1. Oceanfront area: With a mix of locals and tourists, this area presents an excellent opportunity for a discount store catering to both demographics.
  2. Kempsville: The significant residential population in Kempsville ensures a steady customer base for a discount store serving this area.
  3. Hilltop Shopping Center: Its central location and established reputation make Hilltop Shopping Center an attractive spot for a discount store.

The discount store industry in Virginia Beach, VA holds promising prospects due to its growing population and the demand for affordable shopping options. Opening a discount store requires an initial investment ranging from $50,000 to $150,000, with the potential for significant ROI over time. Choose a suitable location, such as the Oceanfront area, Kempsville, or Hilltop Shopping Center, to maximize the chances of success in the discount store business in Virginia Beach.