Physical retail doesn’t have to mean opening 100 stores. From pop-ups and concessions to temporary spaces, brands can test the real world, meet their customers and find out what works.

Trying a pop-up can feel exciting and daunting at the same time.

I often speak to small businesses who love the idea of physical retail but aren’t sure what’s actually involved. A pop-up can be a brilliant way to test your brand in the real world, but it isn’t right for everyone.

Here’s a practical look at whether a pop-up makes sense for you.

Starting a pop-up shop can be exciting. It’s a chance to see your brand in a real space, meet customers face-to-face, and test how your products perform offline.

But many small businesses jump in without knowing what’s involved, and that’s where things can get stressful.

Here’s a simple, realistic guide to getting started.