How Ben Lavigne Took The Leap And Opened Up His Own Music Shop

Ben Lavigne always wanted to work for himself. Growing up in a house where his father was self-employed, and a musician, Ben realized he wanted to be around music.

For the past seven years before this new venture, Ben worked in the mining industry as a buyer. Then, just before COVID, he thought he wanted to go out on his own, and open up a business. 

As a lover of music, Ben wanted to open up a music store. Though there are a couple in the region, there hasn’t been a music store in downtown Bathurst, since Music City. 

“I was a little bit hesitant,” says Ben. “With Music City closing and no one venturing to open up another store. I was a little worried.”

However, when the mine shut down in 2022, Ben decided it was time to go out on his own. 

“When the mine closed, I thought I’m going to do some more research. Do a little bit of digging.”

So Ben started looking for a space and reaching out to distributors and suppliers. One of the most challenging aspects of starting this business was getting product lines from major brands. 

“Coming from a procurement background, you think you’re going to buy stuff and they’re going to sell it. But you need to have a location before they’ll even think about selling to you. Then they have a rep come in to see your location and get to know your plan, then they agree to open an account and start selling you products.”

Ben’s hard work has paid off because he’s now carrying some of the most recognizable brands in the industry. Gibson. Epiphone, Paul Reed Smith, Marshall Amps, Pearl Drums, and much more. Ben is also creating an online store on his website, which will give people full access to everything that he carries. 

He says that the response from the city has exceeded his expectations. The store was only open part-time for several months, but at the end of June, Ben’s Music Stop became his sole focus. 

I asked Ben if he had any advice for people who are looking to start their own business, but aren’t sure about taking that leap. 

“It’s a big step,” says Ben. “when you’re used to the security of working for someone else. But I spent so much time working 60 and 70-hour weeks for other companies, that I thought if I can do that for myself, I’ll be good.”

But he admits he didn’t just up and quit his job. He spent time doing research and preparing himself before taking the leap. 

He also wants to point out that the selection offered at Ben’s Music Stop ranges from beginner to a pro level. The store has something for everyone. 

You can visit his website here: https://bensmusicstop.com/

We want to thank Ben Lavigne for taking the time out of his day to speak with us about his new venture, and we wish him the best of luck. 

That’s another edition of The Northern Heat Report. The place you come to listen to the stories that have not yet been discovered.