E cigarette business venture shattered

[nowheregirl]

My hopes are shattered.

I live in California and am recently recovering from a serious illness and have a few months of physical therapy before i can start a 9-5 job. A friend of mine who wants to help me get off my feet approached me with a proposal that he would fund the start up of an e cigarette supplier business if i did all of the research and foot work. He had no idea of the peril this industry is in and neither did i. Thankful to this forum. I told him that we would be lucky to be in business for two weeks due to the ban that is comming up. No other business ventures excited me more than the prospect of this one so i am quiet depressed about it.

Not to mention the fact that i have helped most people i have talked to convert and when i sent out an e mail telling them they may have to give it up or stock up, which most people can't afford they all freaked out.

I guess i'll have to take my entrepreneurial tendencies elsewhere not to mention start smoking analogs again.

If anyone has figured out legal loopholes around this whole mess as it pertains to business opportunities or just being able to get it for my own pleasure let me know.And no, i'm NOT interested in participating in the inevidable future black market. You can respond via post or PM if you'd like.

I feel so bad for all of you honest business owners who are now in fear because of this ludacris situation. I just wanted to send you my sentiments. And yes, I've done my part by sending Schwarzenegger the form letter.

Cheers,
Sarah

 

[nowheregirl]

BTW, I think this is the time all forms of the industry to stick together and be supportive twards eachother. The more people we can reach the better. It almost feels like a religion. I have already converted some that don't have internet access or are not savvy (the grandmas and grandpas)

 

[rjp44]

Hopefully, more common sense will prevail in other states and perhaps people in your area will be able to find a supplier in some place like Las Vegas who will allow pick-up orders.

 

[nowheregirl]

Hopefully, more common sense will prevail in other states and perhaps people in your area will be able to find a supplier in some place like Las Vegas who will allow pick-up orders.

Yes, thats one way to do it. And probably will end up being the best way after the state ban.

 

[gooney0]

Sarah,

I'm sorry to hear about your situations. It really quite silly to think "e-cigarette control" is a good idea. I'm sure there is no shortage of ....... in CA and thats been more than just banned.

Here are a few thoughts:

1) If they ban the sale, you could drive out of state then wholesale your stock to someone else. As long as they are legal to own, but illegal to sell in CA that should be ok. You'd loose money, but this would avoid a huge loss.

2) I have some background in firearms. A firearm is the receiver not the whole gun. This means I could sell you a barrel, magazines, and accessories without selling a "firearm." I'd then refer you to a licensed dealer.

If you consult a lawyer you may be able to sell "accessories" or "supplies" without selling a whole kit.

3) It may not be successful if you can't provide a "one stop shop."

4) I own a small business myself (computer consulting). It takes a lot of work to get going but it is worth the effort. My #1 tip is this... When you land customer(s) adjust what you sell to match what they want.

If you have a lot of potential customers ask them for ideas. Here are a few ideas:

Customized PCCs. (are you artistic?)
PTB modified carts. (no juice)
Better charging system. (are you technical?)
Custom cases

If you can get or make a one of a kind item you could get started. A lot of guys on the forum are really into this hobby and would probably like to spend a few bucks.

Good luck with whatever you do,

-Gooney0