Business Curb Appeal
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![A street with storefronts extending into the background](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2021-11/downtown-street.jpeg?itok=gRxegE7U)
Look at your store through your customers’ eyes. Pretend that you’ve never been to your business and take a tour. Give your store a curb appeal checkup.
- Start With Parking: Is your signage easy to see? Would someone that’s never been to your store be able to find it?
- Take in Your Surroundings: Is the area outside your store clean and inviting?
- Watch the Signs: Do your store name, signage and displays clearly indicate what you sell?
- Make a Display: Do your store’s window displays draw you in? Are your hours of operation easily visible?
- Put Out the Welcome Mat: When people enter your store are they greeted immediately?
- Create an Experience: When someone enters your store does it feel as inviting as it looked from outside? Are there pleasant sounds and smells?
- Sell It: In-store layout and signage are a science unto themselves. Paco Underhill is a retail expert to check out.
- Keep It Clear: Inside can customers easily find what they need; easy to read sections, prices and sale items?
- Check It Out: Is the checkout experience enjoyable? Do clerks acknowledge people waiting in line? Do you place tempting impulse buys near the register?
Go through this checklist at least once a year.
Business Facade Improvement Opportunity
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![A before and after comparison of a business facade](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2021-11/facade-improvement-2.png?itok=bq7mLM4b)
The purpose of this program is to encourage facade improvements for privately owned commercial buildings in the Community Improvement Areas within Wellington North. Grant assistance is provided in a the form of a 50/50 matching interest free loan, which is paid upon completion of the previously approved work(s).
Wellington North Facade Improvement Guidelines (PDF)
Community Improvement Plan (CIP)
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![A mural depicting people conducting a land survey](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2021-11/arthur-survey-mural.png?itok=d-62EXU2)
Financial Incentive Programs are in place to help beautify the businesses of Wellington North. They include:
Community Improvement Plan Update, 2023 (PDF)