A number
of QVM traders are finding the reduction in offsite box storage space a real
problem and it may be time they considered their options.
Most
traders store their storage boxes on their stalls and have immediate access to
their contents during the trading day. However, a considerable number of
traders choose to take advantage of off-site storage facilities thus giving
them more space on their stalls to display stock. Many of these traders have
been able to locate their boxes near their stalls so they still have ready
access to the stock left in the boxes. A case of having your cake and eating it
too.
There has
been a steady progression in cleaning up box storage. For years boxes were
stored in public areas near toilet blocks for instance but now they can only be
left in designated areas like M shed. The problem is that space previously used
to store boxes is now required for retail use. The market is becoming more
professional about maximising the retail offer with prime corners being
converted to retail space and new precincts like String Bean Alley.
Finding off-site storage has become a bit of a lottery and certainly an
inconvenience. Many traders will have to make new arrangements. Here are some
tips.
1. Store your boxes on your
stall. Yes, this is an obvious solution. You may have to adjust your racking but that is a one-off and if
you keep stock in your boxes it may prove convenient for immediate access to
replacement stock.
2. Use your boxes for display. A
number of traders use their boxes as a convenient display option. Shelved boxes
are great for displaying shoes for instance.
3. Use under table space. It is
difficult to claim you don't have space for storage if the area under your
display tables is left empty. Box hire operators are now able to supply table
size boxes that double as storage and display tops. Again, a number of traders
use this arrangement and save on table hire.
Trader
need to look seriously at locating their storage boxes on their stalls,
particularly if they operate in the deeper stalls and have vacant under table
space. For the rest, the lottery continues.