Do shops close? What is the best strategy to use?

Sell snow blowers, or skiing and snowboarding equipment.

Make it a bike and ski/snowboard shop. Do both bike and ski equipmet rentals. Sell unique bike and ski wear.

Probably the best alternative is to find a complementary line of products and services that focuses on one or more winter sports. The winter is also an ideal time for maintenance and customization of customers bikes. You could run some specials on tune-ups or something. Chistmas can still be a big issue. A new bike is always near the top for present lists.

just so happens a bike store is right next to my home..he just lays off staff and hopes for the best...closing shop is not an option, then for sure you will not make a dime..afterall it is a somewhat seasonal type of a business..he may starve now but he FEASTS in the spring and summer...good luck

The best strategy. PRAYER! Actually, we carry snowshoes and fitness equipment as winter product. As mentioned, ski and snowboard gear is typical winter product for bike shops, but there is so much of that here already, we went the fitness route. Some shops do close if they can afford to, but l only know of 1 near us that does.