How to Open a Casket Store

Retail Sales Center Decor

Retail casket sales customers are usually turned off by the traditional funeral home. In particular, most baby boomers feel intimidated by the environment. With this in mind, we want to set a tone for out retail centers that has a brighter and more relaxed atmosphere than the typical stodgy funeral home.

  1. Once again, windows are important, creating a sunny atmosphere and giving people the opportunity to look in.
  2. It is recommended that wall treatment color choices be light, but not overpowering. Consider a sandstone shade. It is neutral enough to blend with many other colors of carpeting and/or drapes.
  3. Furniture should be traditional. Somehow, high tech modern doesn't seem to mesh with caskets.
    At all costs, avoid buying new furniture. Find a good reputable second hand furniture store… you'll save thousands, and nobody will know the difference.

    Necessary Furniture
    • One or two desks
    • Computer table
    • Desk chairs
    • Round conference table with six chairs (four around the table and two against the wall)
    • Love seat or couch, coffee table or end tables for a reception area.
    • Some form of artwork on the walls… floral prints, angels etc. three or four 18" x 24" or 24" x 36".
    • Framed pictures to break up the walls… think about a gold-framed mirror
  4. Lighting creates the mood of a room. Avoid fluorescent lighting. It is the worst possible lighting for displays! Track units can be purchased for under $15.00 per section. If the space has a drop ceiling with recessed fluorescent lights, the track units can be affixed to the metal grids that hold the ceiling tiles in place, and rewire from existing fixtures.
    You might consider using 60 watt pink tinted bulbs; Sylvania puts out the best. The bulbs tend to soften the appearance of the setting, while casting a warm rosy glow.
  5. Office equipment will be needed, but don't go overboard.

    Necessary Office Equipment
    • Stationery, envelopes, sales receipts, and acknowledgment forms with the company's name, logo address, phone number, website address and e-mail if applicable.
    • Pens, stapler, message pads, paper clips, calculator, filing cabinets.
    • Coffee maker and small refrigerator might be considered. It's nice to offer client families some form of refreshment.
    • Fax machine; an inexpensive Brother can also be used to make copies.
    • Computers tend to be invaluable in correspondence, accounting and data storage.
    • Phone system with two lines and call forward.
    • Cell phone for constant contact.
    • Cleaning and maintenance supplies are a must! You can have a wonderful location that's beautifully appointed, but it has to be cleaned and maintained properly. Remember, you don't get a second chance to make a first impression!
    Cleaning Checklist
    • Wash windows regularly
    • Dust and polish furniture and caskets.
    • Vacuum as needed.
    • Bathrooms should be gone over every other day, or more if necessary
    • Empty waste baskets daily
    • Use plug in floral air fresheners to mask any stale odors.
    • Avoid cluttered desks.
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