Tack shop? Input here please!

[magiemix]

I'm toying with the idea of a tack shop..nothing serious right now just doing my research!
If anyone has the time to answer these questions or put across any other constructive points, it would be much appreciated!

I'm mainly looking at Hertfordshire but all input is helpful to gauge the market.

What is it people are looking for within a tack shop, e.g brands and items

What discipline do you take part in- do you specifically want competition items within a shop or your basics for happy hacking

How many tack shops are in your local area that you are aware of, and what is it that makes you use a particular one of those?

Is there anything you wish was stocked that isn't and any services you wish were offered that simply aren't?

Thanks in advance people!

 

[Archangel]

I am Surrey but I'll answer anyway! We have a number of feed merchants that have a tack shop as an add on. I tend to go to these as I can get all my feed, dog food etc in one go and they are competitively priced. I have noticed over the last few years that the tack shop side in most of them is looking a bit empty, particularly if they have an online side as well.

What I really like about one of the tack shops is that the girl who does the hat fitting is really good, they also stock a wide range of boots, jods and rugs and they have a loyalty card scheme which is handy too. I use the rug drop off for cleaning and repairs as well.

These are two that I use regularly - just realised that I don't actually go to 'tack shops' any more just all in ones how sad
https://rokers.uk/ and http://www.lillicoattlee.co.uk/

Edited as didn't answer all the questions!
Compete in riding club stuff, dressage and a bit of endurance.

 

[alainax]

A plus sized line would be nice Have to usually buy it online. Brands like Equitech have a good range of sizes. The good thing with that sort of stock is if larger riders know you stock some larger sizes, they would come to you for a lot of other things too. Wouldn't have to be a massive range, and it wouldnt go out of date/fashion.

There are 4 or 5 around here. I nip into then occasionally for varios items. I spend ages searching through all the clothes, but rarely buy anything as the sizes are usually 4-14. If I knew of a shop that had a small plus sized range, I would be there a lot!

 

[View]

A good range of quality basics, together with trained and knowledgeable staff is what would entice me in. I'm not into the latest fashions but want well cut clothes that do the job and will last. The only local to me place is fantastic as the owner knows her stuff, is a trained hat and body protector fitter, and will order items in for me. Her prices are on a par with most online places, but I don't have to pay a delivery charge.

Good layout is essential: there is another establishment slightly further away from me that I have visited once and will not be going back. Too much stock crammed in, I couldn't walk forwards between the shelves, and OH couldn't stand upright because of all the items strung across between shelves. I had to leave because I was feeling claustrophobic in there - first and only time the environment has ever caused me to feel that way.

 

[Equi]

One thing i have never ever been able to find is larger tweeds/jackets or wider calf things or even just general items like polos and jods. I have to get everything online, so i can't tell if i will like them or they will fit until i try them. It costs me a lot of money in returns!

Also bras. Why do NO tack shops sell sports bras?