Botanica shop

Local community members, regular worshippers and practitioners, plus curious visitors and gift buyers.

Retail margin on products, with repeat customers buying herbs and candles often. Online orders can add extra sales.

• Deep respect for and knowledge of the traditions you serve
• Retail stock control and pricing
• Customer service and community networking

• Lease terms and rent, which are your biggest fixed costs
• Check council and fire safety rules for candles and incense in a shop
• Herbs sold with health claims can fall under TGA therapeutic goods rules, so check before you describe benefits
• Imported plant material and restricted wildlife products need checks before you stock them
• Public liability and contents insurance, and workers compensation once you hire
• Register for GST once turnover reaches the threshold

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $80,000, depending on your lease, fit-out and opening stock. Lease terms and rent are your biggest fixed costs, so review them carefully before signing.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on location, stock range and how well you serve your community. Treat these as estimates and compare them with your rent and stock costs.

Check council and fire safety rules for candles and incense in a shop. Herbs sold with health claims can fall under TGA therapeutic goods rules, and imported plant material and restricted wildlife products need checks before you stock them.