Becoming a Vendor — FAQ

  1. How much does it cost? Prices vary depending on the size and location of the available shop. The range is approximately $200 to $350 per month. Cases are $64 per month.
  2. Do you charge commission for sales? No. The Shops does not charge commission for any sales.
  3. What forms and certificates do I need? You need a NYS Certificate of Authority, which is required before joining The Shops' vendor community. The Shops on West Ridge is a NYS Marketplace Provider and will collect and remit sales tax payments on your behalf. However, you are still required to report your owns sales tax as a Marketplace Seller in New York State.
  4. Do I have to work any days? Yes. You are required to work a certain number of days depending on your space/case/wall obligation. Shops are 2 days per month, cases and wall spaces are 1 day per month. Shifts are 8 hours, but can be split into 4 hour shifts. Work day obligations increase during our busy months of November and December. You are required to wear a Shops' vest when working.
  5. How and when do I get paid? You get paid monthly. All sales go through our central cashier stations. At the end of each month, your owed rent is deducted from your sales. You receive either a check or an invoice for the difference. 4% is deducted for credit card sales. A check and full report of your sales activity is placed in a mailbox designated for you here at The Shops.
  6. Do I have to sign a contract? No. We operate on a handshake. You are not forced into a long term commitment. We only want you to stay with us if you are happy and successful. The average vendor stay time is 8 years. You also have the option of moving throughout the building as spaces become available.
  7. What can I sell? We do not allow the following items: firearms (or anything resembling a firearm), used clothing (new and true vintage is allowed), or pornographic material. Items with profanity need to be covered. All items are subject to management approval.
  8. How long have you been in business? We have been in business in upstate New York since 1990. We originally opened as the Craft Antique Co Op in Hilton. We changed our name and upgraded our image in 2010.
  9. Who runs The Shops? The Shops is operated by the Marple family. Started by Homer and Ellen Marple. The Shops is now run by their grandson, Nile Marple.
  10. How much money do I need to get started? The costs to get your shop open are modest. A start-up package, which includes a sign, a Shops vest, and price tags costs $50, due at the time of your sign up meeting.
    11. Please contact The Shops at (585) 368-0670 and ask for Ali if you have additional questions or would like to be added to the vendor waitlist.