Listing Details:

• Business Category:    Retail
• Price:                                     $325,000
• Gross Revenue:                  $468,456- 3yr Avg
• SDE:                                           $8,565 - 3yr Avg
• Seller Financing:                $292,500
• Employees:                            12 All Part time
• FF&E:                                          $14,159
• Location:                     Greater Des Moines Area
• Reason for Selling:     Retirement
• Support & Training:     8 weeks
• Non Compete:             100 miles for 2 years
• Years Owned:                   7 years

Business Description

Established in 2001 and has grown to become a cornerstone of the quilting community in Central Iowa. Originally founded to serve local quilting enthusiasts with quality fabrics and supplies, the business expanded significantly under current ownership, relocating to a high-visibility retail space. Over the years, They have built a loyal following through its expert customer service, large selection of over 5,000 bolts of fabric, and a welcoming environment that encourages creativity and connection. The business has also embraced digital growth, offering an online store to serve customers nationwide. Today, they are known not only for its extensive product range but also for its quilting classes, events, and deep ties to the regional quilting community.

Competitive Analysis

Size & Selection: With over 5,000 bolts of fabric, Creekside positions itself as one of the most comprehensive quilting supply shops in the Des Moines metro. This scale provides a one-stop-shop experience.

Community Engagement: Hosting classes, events, and maintaining a loyal customer base creates stickiness and high customer retention.

Online Sales Capability: Their e-commerce platform extends reach beyond local shoppers and offers potential for growth in digital sales.

Experienced Staff: Knowledgeable team members enhance the customer experience and reduce reliance on ownership.

Reputation & Longevity: Operating for over two decades provides credibility, brand recognition, and generational loyalty.

Growth Potential

Digital & E-Commerce Expansion:

• Broader Online Sales: While there is an online store, there's room to significantly scale through SEO optimization, paid search, email marketing, and partnerships with quilt-related marketplaces (e.g., Etsy, Shopify, or Amazon Handmade).
• Virtual Classes & Subscriptions: Offering paid online workshops, skill-building video content, or a monthly “Quilter’s Box” subscription (patterns, fabrics, tools) can generate recurring revenue and reach a national audience.
• Social Media & YouTube Presence: Increased content creation (e.g., tutorials, product demos, project showcases) can attract younger hobbyists and build brand influence far beyond Iowa.

Customer Base Diversification

• Reach Younger Demographics: Through TikTok/Instagram Reels, DIY trends, and modern fabric collections, Creekside can appeal to millennial and Gen Z hobbyists.
• Inclusive Events: Hosting beginner classes, mother-daughter events, or quilting clubs can create new customer pipelines and boost loyalty.

Product Line Expansion

• Adjacent Crafts: Adding embroidery, needlepoint, knitting/crochet, or sewing machine sales/service can increase average transaction size and cross-sell opportunities.
• Private Label Products: Offering branded quilt kits, thread collections, or exclusive fabric bundles can boost margins and build a distinct identity.

Geographic & Physical Growth

• Pop-up Shops / Mobile Unit: Attending fairs, festivals, or offering mobile quilting classes could expand awareness  to rural/quilt-centric communities nearby.
• Regional Market Domination: Targeting underserved towns in Iowa with robust quilting interest through delivery, events, or satellite locations could grow revenue without heavy fixed costs.

Institutional & B2B Sales

• Wholesale Opportunities: Selling bulk or curated kits to retirement communities, vocational schools, or recreation centers could offer recurring volume sales.
• Corporate Gifting / Fundraising Packs: Offering ready-to-go kits for team-building or fundraising efforts in schools or nonprofits may open niche revenue streams.

Operational Improvements

• Loyalty Programs: A well-structured rewards program could boost repeat visits and customer retention.

Inventory Turnover Optimization: Better data analysis of product movement could free up capital and improve profitability.

Facilities

• 3,611 sq/ft
• Lease ends 8/26