Important steps to Become a Tropical Sno Dealer.

Below is a check list of items you will need to address prior to opening for business. This listing is provided for your convenience and our company makes no claims to it's completeness or accuracy. Every area is different and you may encounter situations not listed. However, you should find the check list helpful because it was developed from Tropical Sno dealers experiences in opening retail outlets. More information on starting a small business can be found through the United States Small Business Administration.  or through your local Department of Commerce.

Request Information From Tropical Sno - This can be done by clicking on Become a Dealer and providing us with some information about yourself and your interests. After we have received your inquiry we will send you all of the information that relates to your specific interests. We will also be able to determine if there is a Distributor of Tropical Sno products in your area that can assist you in becoming a Tropical Sno Dealer.

Create a Business Plan - "Failure to plan is a plan for failure." A good business plan will help you determine what you want to accomplish and how you will accomplish it. Done correctly your business plan should be the foundation of your business. For more information see Ten Secrets to Building a Successful Business Plan .

Determine Your Business Structure - One of the first decisions that you will have to make as a business owner is how the company should be structured (Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Corporation). In making this decision, you will want to take into account such things as; your vision regarding the size and nature of your business, the level of control you wish to have, the level of "structure" you are willing to deal with, tax implications, and profit distribution. This decision will have long-term implications, so we suggest you consult with an accountant and/or an attorney to help you select the form of ownership that is right for you.

Determine Your Business Name - As a Dealer you cannot utilize the Tropical Sno name and/or trademark in any manner that implies you are an employee, agent, partner, associate or owner of the Tropical Sno trademark. As a Dealer you can only use the Tropical Sno trademark in your business name when you have your own distinguishing business name and the word Dealer or Dealership. For more information see Guidelines for Choosing Your Company Name .

Sign a Dealer Agreement - Before ordering product, promotional materials or any items displaying the Tropical Sno trademark you must sign a Dealer Agreement  with Pioneer Family Brands, Inc. or an authorized Distributor of Tropical Sno products. By signing the Dealer Agreement our company agrees to let you use our trademark on your business and in return you agree to purchase the Tropical Sno flavors exclusively.

Selecting a Location - It has been said that the three most important rules in Marketing are Location, Location, Location. Choosing your location will be a key part of your success. There are three steps that need to be taken when selecting a location. They are determining the location type, location design, and the actual location. For more information see Location Guidelines .

Research Local Requirements and Regulations - The rules and regulations for operating a Tropical Sno business are different in every area. We encourage you to check with you local city to see if there are any building requirements or restrictions that will affect your business. You will also want to check with the local health department and find out the health requirements for your area. For more information see Location Guidelines .

Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits - Most states and many cities and/or counties impose licenses and permits that you will need to obtain prior to opening. For example the city you will operate in will probably require you get a business license and the local health department will require you get a health permit.

Make Arrangements for the Necessary Utilities - The need for utilities varies depending the location type and local requirements in your area. The most common utility needed is power. In order to minimize costs make sure you locate your business in close proximity to the utilities you will need for your business.

Understand The Tax Requirements - Understanding tax requirements is a necessary aspect of all businesses. As a business owner you will need to become familiar with and learn about payroll taxes, employer identification numbers (EIN), federal income tax, state taxes, local taxes, and sales and use tax. Because the tax laws can be extremely complex, we strongly encourage you to seek professional assistance. A good accountant or CPA (Certified Public Accountant) will help you navigate through local, state and federal laws. They can also explain how to minimize future tax obligations.

Recruit Employees - Your employees will be your most important asset. Choose your employees carefully. Decide before hand what you want them to do. Be specific. Interview and screen applicants with care. Remember, good questions lead to good answers - the more you learn about each applicant's experience and skills, the better prepared you are to make a decision. One of the oldest and most reliable recruitment tools is a simple sign in your window. The most obvious advantage to this recruitment method is that it is free.

Insure Your Business - You will want to get a policy that covers your location and contents but the most important item is liability, including product liability. You should be able to obtain a million dollar policy for a minimum premium. We suggest you meet with your local insurance agent to determine the necessary insurance requirements for your business.

Locate an Ice Supplier - Ice can be purchased from a local ice company or you can purchase the necessary equipment and make ice yourself. Solid block ice works best. If possible try to find a supplier who can cut the blocks to the appropriate size for the Swan machines. In addition, you will need to make arrangements for a freezer to store ice at your location. You can make arrangements with your ice supplier to provide you with an ice merchandiser or you can purchase a freezer yourself. For more information on freezing you own ice see Helpful Hints to Freezing Block Ice.

Order Your Equipment and Inventory - Once your location has been selected and you are familiar with the local requirements and regulations you can order the necessary equipment and inventory to open your business. Our turnkey packages include most everything you will need to get started. If you have special needs we can create a custom turnkey package for you.

Create a Marketing Plan - To succeed, you must attract and retain a growing base of satisfied customers. We have created a number of marketing materials that are aimed at convincing people to try and keep consuming Tropical Sno. We encourage you to incorporate the Tropical Sno marketing materials into your marketing plan. Your marketing plan should begin prior to opening and should include a grand opening celebration.