Becoming a Vendor — FAQ

  1. How much does it cost? Prices vary depending on the size and location of booths. The range is approximately $200 to $350 per month. Cases are $58 per month.
  2. Do you charge commission for sales? No. The Shops does not charge commission for any sales. Our founder, Homer Marple said over 30 years ago to nev- er charge commission and that has not changed.
  3. What forms and certificates do I need? You need a NYS Certificate of Authority to Collect State Sales Tax. To apply, go online to www.businessexpress.ny.gov/. It takes about 3 weeks to obtain. It is free!
  4. Do I have to work any days? Yes. You are required to work 2 days per shop and 1 day per case monthly. Work days owed increase during our busy months of November and December.
  5. How and when do I get paid? Pay days occur monthly. Rent is deducted from your sales at the end of each month. All sales go through our central cashier stations. We calculate the sales tax we collected for you and it is included in your pay. We deduct 4% for credit card sales. A check or invoice and a 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 allow anything except the following items: items with profanity, firearms (or anything resembling a firearm), used clothing (true vintage is allowed), marijuana pipes, or por- nographic material. Management may remove any items they deem as inappropriate to sell.
  8. How long have you been in business? We have been in business in upstate New York for over 30 years. We originally opened as the Craft Antique Co-Op. We changed our name and upgraded our image in 2010 and have been in this location over 20 years.
  9. Who runs The Shops? The Shops is operated by the Marple family. It is 3rd gener- ation owned, started by Homer Marple in Hilton. The Shops is now run by Homer’s 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, an apron, and price tags costs $50.
  11. Please feel free to 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.