When Susan Mason McGalliard purchased her women’s fashion boutique five years ago, she crafted a detailed plan to maintain a striking retail venture until the draw of retirement from the world of business to be closer to family members “Up North,” in Michigan. Now, as she approaches that plan she is offering up a truly unique turnkey business opportunity for the next owner of her shop in the heart of the central business district of downtown St. Joseph.
Her Friends by Design is now officially on the market, awaiting the next entrepreneur or seasoned retailer in search of a remarkable opportunity. Friends by Design, located at 318 State Street in downtown St. Joseph, is a unique women’s clothing boutique featuring accessories and apparel for the discerning female. Susan says, “This shop is like a little bit of Paris in our own neighborhood,” and adds, “The décor is upscale and special which creates an atmosphere for an exceptional shopping experience.”
Best of all for a potential buyer in search of a total turnkey operation, the sale could include the registered trademark of Friends by Design, LLC, all the merchandising and display fixtures, the mannequins, gorgeous chandeliers, the new Point of Sale computer system and printer as well as all the furniture and hangers. As Susan says, “It would be so easy to continue the momentum this shop has built over the past five years.”
The shop at 318 State Street is a rented space with one door facing easy customer parking on State Street, with the ability to capture walk by traffic, an updated bathroom and lower level storage. The owner of the building is willing to work with a new buyer on lease terms for the space.
Susan says that after five successful years in building her business, she and her husband, Jeff are moving further up north to be closer to family. You can contact Susan directly at 773-633-6220 if you are interested in learning more about the business.
Susan says, “This would be a great opportunity for someone who has always wanted to own their own business! With an established and loyal clientele base, a beautiful website and an engaged Facebook following, it would be an easy transition.” She adds that she would be happy to stay engaged with the new owners if they are interested in continuing with the same kind of upscale merchandise or they just need a little time to learn the business.
Susan says, “Our downtown St. Joseph needs businesses like this to draw visitors into the area as well as servicing our locals with exceptional shopping options near home,” and concludes, “Let’s keep what makes St. Joe so special by supporting small businesses like Friends by Design!”
