What should I ask about a glass shop’s showroom and walk-in counter customers?

A showroom and counter bring a different kind of customer from commercial installation work. Ask the seller to describe the typical walk-in, the most common requests and the busiest hours. Request sales records that separate counter sales from scheduled installs, so you can see how much each part contributes.

Next, ask how enquiries become work. Does the counter staff take measurements, give quotes on the spot or book a site visit? What happens to the quotes that do not convert? A simple log of follow-ups tells you whether the counter is organized or relies on memory.

Then focus on the people. If customers return because they trust one counter employee, ask about that person’s plans. Ask what the showroom displays cost to keep current and whether suppliers help with them. After the sale, spend time at the counter before you change anything, since habits that look odd may have a reason behind them. Ask how the showroom ties to the rest of the business. Some walk-ins become larger installation jobs, while others never come back. Knowing which way it runs helps you decide how much attention the counter deserves once you take over. Keep a list of what you learn at the counter, and bring it to your next conversation with the seller.

Key takeaways

• Ask for sales records that separate counter sales from installations.
• Find out how quotes are followed up and how many convert.
• Learn which counter staff customers rely on, and whether they will stay.