Continued from last Monday
- Body Decoration Services (Piercings and Tattoos):According to statistics, the tattoo industry generated $3 billion in revenue in 2014 and continues to grow rapidly:
40 per cent of American households have at least one member with a tattoo, up from 21 percent in 1999
22 per cent of young millennials have at least one tattoo
30 per cent of people aged 25-39 have tattoos and 40 percent of adults aged 30-39
Tattoos are also popular with middle-aged adults?— 30 per cent of those aged 40-49 have at least one
Most tattoo artists learn the trade via an apprenticeship alongside a professional (typically three years or more). For health and safety reasons, some jurisdictions require classroom experience.
If you have artistic and creative skills, becoming a tattoo artist can be an excellent business opportunity.
- Counseling and Therapy
The mental health field is another profession that is experiencing increased demand for services. The BLS expects the need for marriage and family therapists to grow 41 per cent by 2020.
The nature of mental health counseling makes it suitable for private practice. Many professionals in the field make the occupational choice to start their own counseling businesses. This typically requires extensive schooling, however, and often post-graduate degree.
- Financial Advisor/Planner
Financial advisers/planners are expected to be in high demand with a projected growth rate of 30 percent through 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Studies in Canada indicate that only 20 percent of Canadians have confidence in their math and money skills as they relate to planning for a secure financial future, according to a 2011 survey by Ipsos Reid for ABC Life Literacy Canada.
Becoming a financial adviser/planner normally requires a bachelor’s degree and additional training in securities management, leading to licensing/certification. But this is another business that is riding the demographic wave. A huge pool of baby boomers are headed for retirement, and they need and want help with their finances. Financial advising and planning is an ideal business opportunity.
- Gourmet Coffee
Think an independent coffee shop serving espressos, lattes and cappuccinos can’t compete with Starbucks? Think again. A new coffeehouse recently opened in my little town and it has been packed with customers from day one. The owner attributes his success to:
Being in a convenient location for vehicle, cycling and foot traffic
Offering a pleasant atmosphere, including an outdoor patio
Serving high-quality beverages made from small-batch specialty coffees, served by properly trained baristas so the product is consistent
Not attempting to compete with fast-food outlets by selling brewed coffee.
If you have a passion for specialty coffee, why not make it your next business opportunity?
To be continued
