As you prepare to open a new business, there are so many things you need to do. Each one seems like a small decision, but together they combine to take days and weeks of time and concerted effort. Some tasks, such as selecting the color of the paint on the walls, can take a few hours or even less to complete. Others, such as designing the final layout of a building, may require considerable time and even the help of experts. One of the decisions that must be made during this time is whether or not to include an area as a break room for employees. In this article I present: do you really need a break room when opening a dollar store?
If you’re opening a dollar store, be sure to consider all the options available to your employees as part of your decision-making process. Are you opening your business in a large shopping center or other situation where employees have access to a public cafeteria? Is there access to any other shared designated area for employees? The fundamental question is whether the facility offers facilities for its employees to use during their breaks and lunches.
Part of the decision also revolves around how many employees you want on your payroll. Be sure to consider increasing staffing levels as sales increase and especially your staffing needs around the holidays. As a general rule of thumb, consider that the larger the number of employees, the more likely it is that you will need to offer them a break area.
For some opening a dollar store, the total square footage leased or rented may be the determining factor. A small space may require you to consider other options outside of your store. Don’t forget to consider if there might be any areas in your shop and back room that could be safely shared for planned use and rest area.
Do not neglect possible theft and employee safety in your consideration. Make sure there is good access to an emergency exit. In most localities there are specific compliance requirements, so be sure to follow them. On the other hand, regulation or not, don’t trap your employees in an unsafe area while trying to get into a break area at the last minute. Be sure to also consider the possibility of theft. Locating a break room right next to an open, non-alarmed exit from your store is asking for trouble.
If you’re considering opening a dollar store, be sure to invest the time to make the right decision regarding a break room area for your employees. For those planning a larger staff, break rooms of some kind are almost a requirement. However, if there are ways to provide storage lockers for employees and then provide them with a shared break area, you may have your solution.
Here’s to the success of your dollar store business!