Researching the big guys!

Today was the day I really started checking out the competition. It took longer than I thought, because it occurred to me that I dont just need the information of those who are selling similar products, I also need to find out which other places arent.
Unbelievably, I had 19 stores that had the potential to offer maternity and nursing wear, 3 of which offered some sort of service for pregnant or breastfeeding mums. 1 major store, is actually getting rid of all left over maternity wear and will no longer sell them. I was slightly concerned at this, but after a little chat with the manager, she explained it wasnt a localised decision, but a national one, and now only larger stores will sell maternity stock. Another national store sells maternity wear, but not one single item of nursing wear. The 3rd national store sells no maternity wear, but has increased its nursing wear in the past year.....from one bra set, to two. Spoilt for choice arent we?!?! Also , these are logically hidden, sorry I mean stocked down a narrow rail, which doesnt fit a pushchair, and myself and another woman basically had to take turns to have a look! Common sense has not prevailed here! I have made a suggestion for them to turn the rail around so there is plenty of room, which I will check in a couple of weeks to see if it fell on deaf ears.
I did find two stores that dont sell maternity wear in the shop but can order it in. Perfect.....so long as dont want to try before you buy to make sure it fits you or suits you. One store, specialising in serving plus sized women told me how they dont sell maternity wear but do sell a lot to pregnant women who cannot find any suitable alternatives in this town. Two of the assistants here told me that I could make an absolute killing selling maternity and nursing wear around here.

So, the research seems to support my idea.

• This town currently has 2 stores supplying maternity wear, but that will soon become one.
• Nowhere sells nursing/breastfeeding outfits.
• We have 2 stores that sell nursing bras. The cheapest of which is around £16 for one.
• Nowhere is selling swimwear or coats.

So, now I'm looking forward to meeting the market officer on Thursday, and getting some prices together.

Feeling very hopeful!