Something rotten is afoot in the world of umbrella rentals, or so some city officials seem to think.
The Ocean City Council voted this week to reject a number of surprisingly low bids for beach equipment rental franchises this week, instead moving to set a minimum price per-parcel of $500.
Additionally, the new bids will be taken via sealed, written submissions, instead of a live auction, which netted a number of low-ball bids when held in December.
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DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
2 comments:
$500 to rent umbrellas, chairs, and boogyboards all summer is a steal. You'll make well over that on a sunny weekend day. I'd guess you could get started for about $1000, and reinvest for a few weeks to get enough inventory to handle the peak of the busy season. An enterprising college student could clean up if they're willing to put in the hours.
A quality umbrella that will last a season cost almost $300. Good beach chairs that will last a season are $200 or more. $1000 investment would get the rights to 1 street section and 1 umbrella and chair. Don't think you'll get very far with a business like that.
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