Bobbie Roehm poses for a portrait on Tuesday inside Roam, her new store on Langdon Street in Montpelier. Josh Kuckens/Staff Photo
Roam: Why Brick-and-Mortar Retail Works in Montpelier
By Amanda Kuhnert
Bobbie Roehm has worked in fashion and retail for over 20 years. So when she decided to open a new store in Montpelier, she understood the importance of the planning process. Right away she enlisted the help of Charley Ininger, an advisor for the Vermont Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC). Together, they stepped through the process of writing a business plan and applying for financing.
“VtSBDC prompted me to thoroughly think through every aspect of my plan and helped me get ready to talk to lenders,” Roehm said. “They also connected me with other potential lenders, not just banks. For example, I didn’t know that VEDA or Vermont Community Loan Fund (VCLF) were options for me. It was comforting to know there were several other options available.”
Roam opened its doors in the spring of 2018. The retail shop, located in the former Shoe Horn store on Langdon Street in downtown Montpelier, sells outdoor-lifestyle footwear and apparel. Owner Bobbie Roehm had been a footwear and apparel buyer for the Shoe Horn, and when the store closed, she decided to take it over.
“The VtSBDC proved to be an invaluable resource when planning to open my business,” Roehm said. “Without it, I’m not sure if I would actually be open today. They helped me write my road map for success.”
Local support
In today’s online shopping world, local support is key to a successful retail operation. Roehm enjoys being in the center of the capital city’s business district. “We have a tight-knit community that is really cognizant of the importance of supporting local businesses,” she said.
She has developed strong relationships with her fellow retailers and regular customers. “Our customers tell us they enjoy the store and are so happy we are open,” Roehm said. “This inspires us to do the best job we can for them.” She and her staff help customers make informed purchasing decisions, while learning more about their buying preferences to improve product offerings.
Instead of fighting against price undercutting by large online retailers, Roehm partners with suppliers who value—and don’t compete against—their brick and mortar retailers. “There are lots of opportunities to partner with smaller companies and artisan brands, where shopping for the best price is not going to be an issue,” she said. “And if we provide a warm and inviting atmosphere, a great product selection, and impeccable customer service, we will keep our edge!”