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7 Replies Last post: Aug 16, 2008 3:56 AM by RockD_Phones

Starting a new cell phone business...

Aug 13, 2008 9:34 AM

Click to view RockD_Phones's profile Professional RockD_Phones 4 posts since
Aug 13, 2008
We are a new cell phone start-up business, with an emphasis on imported GSM phones in conjuction with (hopefully) providing gsm service (as sub-dealer). Initial plan is to sell imported GSM phones online on web store and/or e-bay. Very early stages of starting (started 4 days ago). 2 owners, myself [hispanic male] and friend [hispanic female, single mother]. Have below average credit, little/no immediate funds to contribute to business. are working on ideas and brain storming layout. Looking to cater to individuals with taste for the unique and new, with phones rarely seen on these shores along with the trendiest accessories. Also having phones available for video share launch (overseas phones already compatible) in upcoming months, having an upper hand on the amount of phones available and compatible with service versus traditional corporate/direct dealer stores. Have not created business plan yet. And yes, I've heard of SCORE and am planning to consult with them once we have all of or ideas fleshed out. Will be looking for loans, grants, investors to help get started. I've worked and managed a retail electronics store with an emphasis on cell-phones for 6 years for three of the four major carriers in the US. As far as questions, I've been reading a lot of this forum recently and I still don't really know where to start as far as setting up the business. How to set-up the business (partnership, llc, etc.), how/where to look for funds, and everything else that goes into starting a business. What do you guys think? Thanks in advance for your input.
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Click to view she1072002's profile Professional she1072002 7 posts since
Aug 13, 2008
1. Re: Starting a new cell phone business... Aug 13, 2008 10:15 AM
Hello,

I read your interested in opening up a cell phone business. I dont have much experience in owning a business but I have been a business manager for some time and have a degree in business administration. Are you planning on selling online only, or are you also planning on opening a store. If you are then location is a key factor. Definately have your business plan before you see the guys from SCORE and every time you come up with an idea for your business write it down inmediately.
Click to view DCDirect's profile Authority DCDirect 13 posts since
Aug 13, 2008
2. Re: Starting a new cell phone business... Aug 13, 2008 11:14 AM
From a business perspective I recommend you to sell only new phones with guantees. Try to negotiate deals with partners from overseas to get the best price / conditions.

In my professional career I have seldom see people make good $ out of used electronic equipment.

Good Luck and all the best.
Click to view russellj's profile Mogul russellj 23 posts since
Aug 11, 2008
3. Re: Starting a new cell phone business... Aug 13, 2008 3:33 PM
you need to call me i will show you some thing that will blow your mind

Russ 775-343-6524
Click to view russellj's profile Mogul russellj 23 posts since
Aug 11, 2008
4. Re: Starting a new cell phone business... Aug 13, 2008 3:36 PM
in response to: DCDirect
you sound like you know what your talking about with advise that you gave that gentlemen i would like to talk to you briefly about a remarkable business opportunity..
call me
Russ
775-343-6524
Click to view RockD_Phones's profile Professional RockD_Phones 4 posts since
Aug 13, 2008
5. Re: Starting a new cell phone business... Aug 13, 2008 4:57 PM
in response to: she1072002
As far as online or a live store, our plan is to first have our online presence with our own e-store as well as an e-bay store. once we can secure enough funds we do plan on moving into an actual store. we feel it's much easier securing an overseas supplier for phones to sell online to generate immediate revenue, rather than getting a sub-dealer gm contract here locally without an actual location, merchant services, etc.. if you are familiar with san diego, we have a few areas in mind that we've scouted so far: coronado, downtown, la jolla, and eastlake.
Click to view RockD_Phones's profile Professional RockD_Phones 4 posts since
Aug 13, 2008
6. Re: Starting a new cell phone business... Aug 13, 2008 4:59 PM
in response to: DCDirect
you're completely right. i have no intention of buying used equipment from overseas. we've been able to find a few dealers online, and we will be attending a few trade shows in the upcoming months. now if i could only find some money...
Click to view RockD_Phones's profile Professional RockD_Phones 4 posts since
Aug 13, 2008
7. Re: Starting a new cell phone business... Aug 18, 2008 9:37 AM

Any suggestions on how to go about getting a loan, or maybe finding investors?