Dollar Mart

Sapna Shah does not come from a long line of entrepreneurs but she always dreamed of running her own business. In February 2004, she met with Pauline Davis of the Small Business Development Center to discuss the possibility of starting a dollar store. After the discussion, Sapna was convinced that this was the right type of business for her. With the support of her husband, she resigned from her job, started doing the necessary research, and continued to meet with Pauline Davis. They discussed the business structure, location, inventory, marketing, etc. They decided to finance the store with personal savings and a small loan.

In June 2004, the Dollar Mart opened in the Collegiate Square Plaza, 12062 Collegiate Way, Orlando, Florida 32817. The store services the University of Central Florida and East Orlando communities with a wide variety of household items, cleaning products, gift items, snacks, school supplies, telephone cards to name a few. It is an exciting business as the success of the store depends on anticipating what items will be in season, what the clients will like, and the quantity needed. The store is doing fine after only one year of operating but Sapna is always thinking of different marketing strategies to increase sales and bring new customers. The business had a slight setback last year with the onslaught of the 3 hurricanes, but they are grateful that the damage was not catastrophic.

Sapna is very optimistic about the business and said, “I am so grateful to Pauline Davis for the assistance and continued support of my business.” She knows that Pauline is only a telephone call away. The business has become a family business as her parents are now helping with the business as well.

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"I am so grateful to (the SBDC) for the assistance and continued support of my business."

Sapna Shah
Dollar Mart