Children's clothes boutique

Local parents, grandparents and gift buyers, including people shopping for baby showers and birthdays.

You buy stock wholesale and sell at retail prices. Sales depend on foot traffic, repeat customers and seasonal peaks such as back to school and Christmas.

• Buying stock and managing budgets
• Customer service and sizing advice
• Shop display, inventory and basic bookkeeping

• Commercial lease terms and rent can be a major commitment, get advice before signing
• Public liability insurance and insurance for stock and contents
• Children's sleepwear has mandatory safety and labelling standards, check the ACCC product safety rules
• Council approval for shop use and signage may be needed, check with your local council
• Workers compensation insurance is needed once you hire staff
• Seasonal sales and unsold stock can strain cash flow

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $20,000 to $80,000, depending on your premises, fit-out and how much stock you buy. Commercial lease terms are a major commitment, so get advice before signing.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on location, stock range and seasonal sales. Revenue is not profit, as rent and stock need covering. The idea assumes at least about 30 hours a week.

Check ACCC product safety rules, as children's sleepwear has mandatory safety and labelling standards. Also check council approval for shop use and signage, public liability and stock insurance, and workers compensation insurance once you hire staff.