Thinking about starting a business, but not sure if you’ll need to invest in a warehouse to get it off the ground? Understandably, you’re researching your options. Investing in a warehouse is a hefty expense.
In many cases, though, you won’t need your own warehouse. You can find a third-party building, often referred to as a 3PL warehouse, to use instead.
Warehouses take up a lot of space and initial startup funds, but if you can use them to expand your business, you could be successful. What will you fill it with if you’re thinking about building or buying a warehouse?
Here are ten business ideas that use warehouses to boost profitability. Is one of them your next venture?
1. Flea Markets
Does your area have enough of a target audience that a flea market would be popular? If so, consider redesigning your warehouse with stalls, ventilation, bathrooms, and lighting. Then, rent each stall out to vendors and advertise your flea market.
2. Storage
A great way to make a passive income is to have a storage warehouse. Split your building into secure areas, then rent them out to other businesses or individuals who need extra room for their goods.
3. Event Venue
Keep your warehouse simple, clean, and well-lit, and you can rent it out to people hosting events. As long as it meets the city’s zoning and safety codes, this is a simple way to utilize your open space. You provide the bare bones for the event, and the host brings furniture and decor.
4. Co-Working Space
The work-from-home requirement isn’t popular with everyone, but COVID has made it necessary in many businesses. Some people don’t have quiet places to work, and they’d appreciate renting a cubicle in your warehouse. Provide the technology and lighting, and they’ll gladly show up daily to work.
5. Recording Studio
Similar to an event venue, renting your warehouse as a recording studio doesn’t take much on your part. Turn the warehouse into a soundproof, insulated area with great acoustics. Those who need space will rent the room and bring their own equipment.
6. Parking Garage
You only need one level to turn your warehouse into a parking garage. However, if it’s cost-effective to invest in renovations that safely provide customers with multiple parking levels, you can fit more cars and earn more money. Include lighting and security, and you have a great investment.
7. Child Care Center
Renting out your warehouse as a child care center, or running the center yourself, is an excellent use of the space. Make sure you have the right credentials and a safe building, as you’ll have to jump through a lot of hoops for this business idea.
8. Exhibition Center
As long as the decor and lighting are top-notch, you can showcase art and other various exhibits in your warehouse. Targeting most industries helps ensure you have exhibits year-round.
9. Beauty Salon
Turn your warehouse into an open area with booths, storage, sinks, and chairs, and rent it out to freelance cosmetologists.
10. Doggy Daycare
Are animals your passion? Start a doggy daycare center, and spend all your time with the furry friends who make you happy. There isn’t too much that could be better for an animal lover than running a daycare center.
