Let there be light… in all shapes, styles, colors and functions, lamps and lighting serve a myriad of uses. Stock up on a variety of lamps so your customers can buy decorative lamps and lighting fixtures for every need. The right table lamp, floor lamp or lamp shade can brighten up an otherwise dull space.

Lamps can be incandescent, fluorescent, halogen and fiber optic. Choose from glass lamps, brass table lamps and Tiffany lamps. There are stationery lamps, lamps that swivel or swing, lamps that hang from the ceiling or sconces that hang on the wall. There are also Lamps that flip, switch, pull or turn on with a clap. From a night light to an exquisite chandelier, choose the lamp that will do the job.

1. Offer a variety of lamps in different price ranges, functions and designs.
2. Consider specialty lamps for discerning customers.
3. Look to energy-saving lighting options to save money.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose a lamp based on its intended function

Lamps aren't always located behind us when we're reading a book. Specialty lamps serve specific functions and are designed to provide targeted light in precise wattages, luminescence or angles. Outdoor lighting consists of larger bulbs and higher voltage, and is designed to throw a lot of light far out into an area. Office lighting is concentrated to specific areas, is usually fluorescent and is designed to prevent eye strain and glare. Home lighting is soft, warm, focuses on artistic design as much as function and is available in a variety of materials, fixtures and styles.

I recommend: Check out Lamps on the Web, Bellacor lighting and Lamps Plus. Look for architectural drafting lamps at Drafting Steals furniture.

Buy fluorescent lamps to conserve energy and save money

Fluorescent lamps are an energy-efficient alternative compared to incandescent lamps. Generally used in commercial and industrial settings, fluorescent lamps are now being designed, manufactured and marketed to residential customers for use in a variety of settings large and small. Install fluorescent wall lamps or ceiling lamps to brighten a family room or kitchen, basement or garage. In a more compact setting, fluorescent drafting lamps are economical in a home office or children's room as a desk lamp. Now there are compact fluorescent lights (CFL) and light emitting diode (LED) bulbs that can be screwed into conventional floor lamps and ceiling lamps that can cut 50-80% off your electric bill. While fluorescent lamps and bulbs cost a little more than incandescent lamps, they save money in the long run.

I recommend: Look for fluorescent lights at Grainger. Learn more about energy saving lighting at EarthEasy.

Offer specialty lighting, such as stage lamps, architectural lighting and artistic lighting

To increase sales, focus on one or two industries that need specialty lighting. Target your marketing to these groups. Try lighting for the entertainment industry, such as stage lamps, studio lighting and theater lighting. Offer color patterns and strobe lighting, projector lamps and neon. Also try architectural lighting for museums, ballrooms, libraries, condos, hotels and restaurants. There's outdoor lighting for stadiums, patios, landscapes, lanterns, spotlights and security. There is also a market for artistic lighting such as stained glass, brass, cast iron, aluminum and ceramic for home and garden. Don't forget holiday lighting for Christmas, Hanukkah, Halloween and birthdays.

I recommend: For lighting for the entertainment industry try Bulbtronics. Visit National Specialty Lighting and Artistic Lighting for specialty lighting.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  For extra sales, sell lamp and lighting accessories, such as bulbs, lampshades and globes, hooks and chains, pull cords and power strips.
• •  Cater to a specialty crowd by selling exotic lamps, stained glass, contemporary designs, Oriental designs, and even lamps in the shape of animals or highlighting sports teams.
• •  Don't forget the basics; there will always be a need for simple light bulbs, floor lamps, ceiling lamps for living rooms and desk lamps. These are best sellers.