Choosing the perfect name for your retail store is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when starting a business. The right store name can help attract customers, reinforce your brand identity, and set you apart from competitors. Here are some tips to help you choose a memorable, meaningful, and effective retail store name.
Brainstorm keywords and themes
Start by brainstorming words and phrases related to your products, services, and brand identity. Are there specific product categories, benefits, or features you want to emphasize? For example, an outdoor gear shop could use words like “adventure,” “outdoors,” “explore,” etc. If you’re opening a baby store, brainstorm terms related to infants, children, parenting, etc. List out all words and phrases that capture the essence of your business.
Describe what you do
An easy starting point is to simply describe what your business does. For example, “Betty’s Bakery” instantly conveys that this is a bakery owned by someone named Betty. Other examples are “Mountain Bike Depot,” “The Garden Supply Shop,” or “Bob’s Pizza Place.” A descriptive name clearly communicates your offerings.
Evoke imagery and emotion
An effective retail store name can spark feelings or conjure up vivid imagery related to your products or brand. For example, “The Magical Toy Store,” “Happy Pets,” and “Handcrafted with Love” all spark emotion and visualization of the shopping experience customers can expect. Choose words that connect at an emotional level.
Use creative alliteration and rhymes
A bit of wordplay can make your store name more intriguing and memorable. Alliteration (using the same first consonant sound) like “Purely Puzzles” or “Babies and Blankets” rolls off the tongue. Rhyming names like “Marmalade Skies” or “The Cookie Nook” are also easy to remember. Have fun with alliteration, rhymes, and other creative language devices.
Incorporate your location
Including your location in the store name can help customers know exactly where you are. This works especially well for places with famous landmarks or well-known areas. For example: “Central Park Pets,” “Willamette River Outdoor Adventures,” or “Ocean Avenue Fashions.” Local customers will appreciate the connection to the community.
Use your own name
Incorporating your name into the store name lends an approachable, friendly feel—and also builds brand recognition. Examples like “Jan’s Quilt Shop,” “Simpson’s Hardware,” or “Marcy’s Cupcakery” identify the owner. This creates a welcoming, personalized shopping experience. Just be sure your name sounds appropriate for your particular business.
Research your competition
Once you have a list of possible names, do some research to see what other local businesses are using. Search online business directories and do a preliminary check for URL availability. You’ll want to avoid names that are identical or very similar to competitors in your area or industry. Brainstorm other options if needed.
Pick something memorable and simple
Opt for a store name that is relatively short and easy to remember, spell, and pronounce. Stay away from convoluted names with odd spellings or complicated language. And remember that the name that you find catchy and creative may be confusing for shoppers. Pick something memorable and simple for best results.
Get feedback from others
Run your top name contenders by friends, family members, and business contacts. Get their take on what each name conveys and see if they find some options confusing or unappealing. Feedback from others can help you identify issues or choose between finalists.
Check domain name availability
Once you’ve narrowed down your list, see if the matching .com domain name is available for each prospective store name. The ideal would be to secure a domain name that matches your brick-and-mortar shop name. If not, you may need to tweak a name or get creative with domain options like adding your location.
Do a trademark search
To avoid future legal issues, do a preliminary trademark search to ensure another business is not already using your preferred store name. Search the USPTO database for exact matches or similar existing trademarks. Refine your name further if needed to ensure it’s unique.
Visualize your brand image
Picture how your store name will look in your branding, signage, website, packaging, and promotional materials. It should fit with your logo and reinforce the broader brand image. If a name feels disconnected from your brand identity, it may not be the right choice.
Consider your expansion plans
If you think you may expand or franchise in the future, choose a name that allows flexibility and growth. Geographic-specific names like “Mile High Bakery” are less adaptable. A name like “Mountain Peak Bakery” is versatile enough to work in multiple regions.
Finalize and protect your name
Once you’ve selected your retail store name, take steps to protect it:
- Register your business name and domain
- Trademark your business name and logo
- Secure social media handles
- Create professional email addresses
- Design your signage and branding
Finalizing these details solidifies your store name and allows you to promote your new business!
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect retail store name requires creativity, research, and vision. Brainstorm descriptive, emotive words that capture your products and brand identity. Opt for something simple, memorable, and different than competitors. Check availability of domains, trademarks, and social handles. And make sure your name aligns with your broader branding and growth plans. With the right store name, you’ll intrigue customers and give your business an instant boost.
