Christmas market stall

Market visitors, families and gift shoppers looking for something a bit different from big retailers.

Retail margin on items sold at each market. Your stall fee and travel come out of each market day's takings.

• Eye for festive products
• Friendly selling
• Setting up an attractive display
• Handling cash and card payments

• Market organisers may ask for public liability insurance, check requirements before you apply
• Hot weather in an Australian summer, plan shade and keep stock protected
• Some councils require a permit for stalls, check with your local council or market organiser
• Electrical goods should meet Australian standards, check before selling
• Leftover stock after December, plan where it goes
• Register an ABN and keep sales records for tax

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on your stock, stall set-up, display items and market fees. Treat this as a guide only and check fees with organisers before you apply.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on the markets you attend, your products and the weather. Plan for leftover stock after December and for hot summer conditions.

Check whether market organisers require public liability insurance, and whether your council requires a stall permit. Check that electrical goods meet Australian standards. Also register an ABN and keep sales records for tax.