When most potential business owners think of opening a retail store they are most likely considering an online store rather than a bricks and mortar store. The main reasons for that are cost and more people are shopping online. Everyone knows that it is a lot less risky to open an online store; you don't need to sign a long lease, deal with utilities, or employees. That cuts costs down a lot. Most e-commerce websites start as one and two man shows and grow over time. A retail store cannot start small like that.

Another thing that entices people to sell goods online rather than in a traditional retail store is the fact that they can reach a worldwide audience. With a brick and mortar store you can only sell goods locally.

Shopping on the internet is growing every year as the internet becomes more secure and more convenient. A majority of people would much rather shop online because they don't have to deal with the crowds and parking, and in most cases they can save a lot of money. If you plan to open a bricks and mortar store please keep in mind that people love to shop online, and that love is only going to grow.