Laura Salzman
Simi Valley, CA (USA)
Role(s):
Founder/Owner/Principal
Dr. Conkey's Candy & Coffee
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Location:
Simi Valley
Industry:
Retail/Clothing
Year Founded:
2004
Number Employees:
10-50 people
Description:
Dr. Conkey’s Candy & Coffee (URL removed) located in Simi Valley, California and is a successful old fashioned candy / coffee / gift store that has been in business at its current location for over 25 years and with the current ownership for the past 5 years. Dr. Conkey’s has been voted Ventura County’s favorite “coffee shop” and “gift store” for the past 5 years. And while it is a unique and phenomenal store, that is not enough in today’s marketplace during these tough economic times. Strong retailers will survive, the weak will fade away and this is a fantastic opportunity to introduce new concepts and fresh ideas to the retail world.
The Company intends to rebrand under the name of “Conkey’s Corral” and expand stores nationally but to add an entirely new concept to the realm of retail. This new concept will forever change the way that people shop and will incorporate several key factors including affordable items (candy and coffee) that are part of our daily consumption as a society; a fun, family focused environment that appeals to youths and adults of all ages and genders; and diversification which is essential for future retail success.
This new concept that “Conkey’s Corral” will be introducing, is the market of a “supervised, drop-in children’s play center” located directly within the retail store. This new shopping model not only provides a new revenue stream and serves the needs of consumers; it also creates additional diversity, attracts customers and promotes the core value of quality family time. The play center (“the Jailhouse”) will be customized utilizing 3-D dimensional western theming and will include feature activities such as a rock climbing wall, slides, tube crawls and cargo climbs. Additionally, the Jailhouse will have secured fencing and continuous monitoring of the entrance / exit to ensure the safety of all guests.
Imagine an old fashioned store with taffy barrels, penny candy jars, an old fashioned bar ("Saloon") for coffee drinks and uniquely displayed gift items on old styled hutches with a Western town play center that will be supervised. The play center will allow for parents to stay in the store and relax and socialize or leave and visit neighboring shops in peace. Supervised, drop in child care is currently not available at any major shopping mall in the United States and this is a great business opportunity to be the innovator of the new shopping trend of the next decade and beyond.