In The Sims 4, building a business isn’t just a dream—it’s a fully playable career path thanks to the Get to Work expansion pack. Whether you want to run a fashion boutique, a bakery, a bookstore, or even a quirky potion shop, owning a retail business lets you control every detail: from store layout to pricing, staffing, and customer service. Here’s how to build a thriving Sim-owned enterprise.
1. Own the Right Expansion & Buy a Retail Lot
You’ll need The Sims 4: Get to Work to access the Retail business system.
Then:
- Go to Manage Worlds
- Purchase a Retail lot (marked with a shopping bag icon)
- Use your Sim’s household funds or start with a pre-built venue
You can convert any lot to retail, but starting with a blank canvas gives you full creative control.
2. Design a Customer-Friendly Store Layout
Great businesses in Sims 4 balance aesthetics and function:
- Place entrances near sidewalks
- Create clear aisles so Sims don’t get stuck
- Use mannequins, display shelves, and racks to showcase products
- Add restrooms, seating, and decorative lighting to boost customer mood
Remember: happy Sims spend more Simoleons!
3. Stock, Price, and Promote Your Products
Open the Owned Business Panel (press “B”) to:
- Add items from your inventory or craft new ones (baked goods, potions, clothing, etc.)
- Set prices—start at 2–3x your cost for healthy profit
- Run promotions like “Discount Day” or “Buy One, Get One” to attract crowds
Crafted goods (from baking, mixology, or herbalism) often yield the highest margins.
4. Hire and Manage Employees
You can’t do it all alone! Hire up to 3 employees:
- Assign roles: Sales, Restock, or Cleanup
- Train them to improve performance
- Monitor their needs—tired or hungry employees slack off
Tip: Promote your Sim to “Owner” in the panel to unlock full control and higher profits.
5. Level Up and Expand
Your business gains Retail Perks as you earn XP:
- Unlock more inventory slots
- Increase daily customer cap
- Reduce restock times
Reinvest profits into better displays, larger lots, or even a second location. The ultimate goal? A 10-star business with lines out the door!
FAQs
Q: Can I run a service-based business (like a salon or vet clinic) as a retail store?
A: Not directly. Salons and vet clinics use separate gameplay systems. Retail is for selling physical goods—but you can sell salon products (like shampoos) in a store!
Q: Do I have to be on the lot for my business to run?
A: No! Use the “Open/Close Business” option in the panel to run it remotely—though profits and XP are higher when you’re present and managing actively.
Q: What’s the most profitable business type in Sims 4?
A: Crafted goods win! Baked treats, herbal remedies, and high-end clothing (made with the Moschino Stuff Pack) offer the best margins with low startup cost.
Building a business in The Sims 4 blends creativity, strategy, and storytelling. With smart design, attentive management, and a dash of Sim-tastic charm, your virtual shop can become a neighborhood hotspot—and your Sim’s ticket to financial freedom. So stock the shelves, open the doors, and let the Simoleons roll in!
