Why do so many entrepreneurs head to Myrtle Beach, S.C., to open the doors of their startup companies? Is it because the area is crisscrossed by a half-dozen interstate highways, is close to three international airports, or boasts a massive workforce of more than 2.5 million employment-age adults? Those are some of the reasons, but there are many more. The region is one of the nation’s most profitable tourism locations, with nearly 200 miles of gorgeous coastline, stable incomes, scores of online career opportunities, and a healthy economic growth rate.
Those who want to build their own business or startup would be remiss to overlook Myrtle Beach. While countless forms of enterprise thrive in the area, a few of the top categories in 2023 include food truck businesses, transport fleets, IT consulting firms, tax-related services, and massage practices. If you’re thinking about launching a startup in or near Myrtle Beach, consider the following information about several kinds of businesses that tend to perform well in its entrepreneur-friendly economy.
Food Truck Business
One of the great things about tourism is that it generates capital and creates jobs year after year. The annual visitors span the age demographic, which makes having a food and beverage truck an excellent part-time or full-time pursuit for entrepreneurs. There are two ways to go with the niche.
One is to get a preparation license from the state and make menu items on-site. The other, less complicated approach is to sell only ready-made items you purchase from wholesalers, like sandwiches, chips, and ice cream treats. The cost of entry is low, and most newcomers to the food truck business test the market with just one or two vehicles before finding their favorite spots. Either way be prepared to read through a small business marketing guide so that you can be sure to create visibility since you won’t have a permanent storefront for yourself where you can rely on foot traffic to drive sales.
Transport & Delivery Fleet
Businesses that use vehicle fleets to get their work done are in high demand in the thriving economy of Myrtle Beach. But transport and delivery firms of all sizes are looking for ways to keep fuel costs as low as possible considering recent at-the-pump increases. For many entrepreneurs, the wisest move is to purchase one or more electric vehicles (EVs).
It’s best to first review a helpful guide on the cost of an electric charger for commercial cars and small trucks before purchasing vehicles. It’s essential to learn the facts about how to install chargers at your permanent parking location, how charging networks work, and more. Moving people and cargo in the vicinity can be a lucrative business model for entrepreneurs who take the time to study the market and keep operating expenses down.
Massage Therapy Practice
Cities that enjoy a seasonal influx of tourists tend to make excellent locations for massage therapy practices. Solo or group operations can specialize in out-call or in-call services. Obtaining a state license and working as a massage therapist can take up to six months, but certified professionals can earn top dollar if they’re willing to go where the customers are, which means beach resort areas, hotels, and anywhere tourists gather in Myrtle Beach. Ideally, therapists have a second job for the off-season or while they’re building up their regular local customer base.