Qualifications to Become a Hallmark Retailer

FINANCIAL CRITERIA

Whether buying a new store or purchasing an existing store, Hallmark's initial financial criteria are the same.

Minimum net worth of $500,000

Minimum unencumbered liquid assets of $120,000*

Average cash requirement in the range of $117,000 - $220,000*

  • Includes an initial cash investment of one-third the total cost
  • Includes working capital of $50,000 - $80,000
  • Must be confirmed in personal unencumbered liquid funds
  • Borrowed funds are not considered unencumbered

Access to financing in the range of $133,000 - $280,000*

  • Financing cannot exceed two-thirds the total cost to open or purchase your store.
  • Confirmation of loan, repayment terms and collateral is required.

*May vary beyond ranges, depending on store size, store type (mall or strip), geographic location, etc.

Click on "Initial financial investment" at the top of this page to see a sample range of initial investment costs for a new store.

Outside Income - You must be able to maintain an outside income equal to 80% of your present household income for a period of two to three years while you get your business started. This can be accomplished through the income of a spouse or business partner or through other means.

Liquid Assets - You must confirm your personal liquid assets are available for investment and working capital.

Existing Businesses - Capital in an existing business is not recognized as available funds for a new store. Any existing business must be in sound financial condition to purchase a new Hallmark store.

 

MARKETING CRITERIA

  • Five to ten years recent retail sales management experience preferred
  • Experience managing five or more people preferred
  • College degree preferred

PERSONAL INTERVIEW

  • In-depth interview conducted by a Hallmark field sales representative to include discussion of retailer responsibilities, qualifications and locations available
  • Possible interviews by the field management team

BUSINESS PLAN

  • Submission of a 3-year business plan for approval by the Hallmark Sales Manager

HOW TO APPLY

There are limited opportunities for Hallmark card shop ownership and the application process is simple. Click on "How to apply" in the upper right-hand corner of this page, complete the Retailer Candidate Questionnaire and Personal Financial Statement then send them to Hallmark via fax or mail. We will review your information and will get back to you to discuss the possibilities.

Please send completed applications to:

Mary Daniels
New Business Inquiry Department
Hallmark Retail, Inc.
P. O. Box 419580, MD 163
Kansas City, MO 64141
Fax: (816) 274-3708
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