The following document is a sample of a finished business plan. In your final plan, you have the opportunity to elaborate on those ideas in your outline that you feel are most integral to your business. In composing your business plan, you can follow your outline as loosely or closely as you choose. For instance, in the sample plan, the Executive Summary, which is the last section of the Business Planning Wizard, is presented first in order to emphasize the most impressive features of the business. Your goal in composing a finished business plan is to construct the most comprehensive, thorough document possible, in order to attract investors and to confirm that you have taken the time to explore as many potential issues for your business as may arise.
Mr. Richard Carey
Canton Street
Seattle, Washington 22222
Dear Mr. Carey:
My attorney, Mr. William Hollands, suggested I write to you regarding my business, Northwind Traders. I am currently seeking funding, and I believe that my company would coincide with your interest in businesses relating to the travel industry makes my company a great investment for you.
Northwind Traders is positioned to take advantage of the significant market opportunities available in the customized travel-planning field. Through a professional approach to marketing, experienced management, and an emphasis on outstanding customer support and service, Northwind Traders can become the Greater Seattle area’s premier provider of planning services for European adventure travel through a strong marketing campaign, experienced management, and an emphasis on outstanding customer support and service. From that base, the company will expand to become a regional force.
We are seeking $83,500 in funding, and anticipate this to be the extent of the funds required. The funds will be used to refurbish the shop, to expand the staff, and to developincrease marketing activities, primarily our Web site and databasee development.
I appreciate your consideration of the business plan for Northwind Traders. I will contact you next week in approximately ten days to see if you have any questions andor to discuss how we may proceed. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Heather Mitchell
President
Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY……………………………………………………. 1
Description of the Company………………………………. 1
Mission Statement………………………………………………… 1
Products and Services…………………………………………. 1
Financial Forecast……………………………………………….. 2
Financing Requirements……………………………………… 2
HISTORY AND POSITION TO DATE………………………………. 4
The Company’s Mission…………………………………………. 4
Management Team and Key Personnel…………. 4
Services………………………………………………………………………. 6
Transportation……………………………………………………… 7
Company History……………………………………………………. 7
Guarantees and Warranties……………………………. 8
Business Structure……………………………………………….. 8
MARKET RESEARCH……………………………………………………….. 8
Economic and Social Factors………………………….. 9
Competitive Environment…………………………………… 9
Long-Term Opportunities…………………………………….. 9
Geographic Area…………………………………………………… 10
Market Description…………………………………………….. 10
Target Customers……………………………………………….. 10
Market Definition……………………………………………….. 10
Market Opportunities………………………………………… 11
Competitive Analysis………………………………………….. 12
Competitive Advantages…………………………………… 13
Competitors’ Positions………………………………………. 14
Potential Future Competition……………………….. 14
BUSINESS STRATEGY……………………………………………………. 15
Customer Incentives…………………………………………… 15
Advertising and Promotion…………………………….. 15
Sales and Marketing………………………………………….. 16
Commission……………………………………………………………… 17
OPERATIONS………………………………………………………………….. 17
Premises……………………………………………………………………. 17
Choice of Location and Premises…………………… 17
Hours of Operation……………………………………………… 17
Equipment………………………………………………………………… 18
Staffing……………………………………………………………………. 18
FINANCIAL FORECASTS……………………………………………………………….. 18
Sales Forecast………………………………………………………. 18
Cash Flow Projections………………………………………. 20
Income Statement……………………………………………….. 20
Balance Sheet……………………………………………………….. 21
Performance Ratios……………………………………………. 21
Break-Even………………………………………………………………. 21
Funds Required and Timing………………………………. 21
Funding Options…………………………………………………….. 22
BUSINESS CONTROLS………………………………………………….. 23
Accounting System……………………………………………… 23
Quality Control…………………………………………………… 23
New Tour Operators…………………………………………… 23
Capacity…………………………………………………………………… 23
Long-Term Goals…………………………………………………… 24
Steps for Achieving Goals…………………………………. 24
Position…………………………………………………………………….. 25
Risks Associated with Growth………………………. 25
APPENDIX 1: MARKET RESEARCH……………………………… 26
APPENDIX 2: FINANCIAL FORECASTS……………………….. 35
