Independent clothing shop

Local shoppers and passing foot traffic who value personal service, fitting help and a range they can't find in big chains.

You buy stock at wholesale and sell at retail. Income needs to cover rent, stock, wages and other costs, so location and stock turnover matter a lot.

• Buying stock and pricing it well
• Customer service and styling advice
• Managing cash flow and rosters

• Commercial lease terms, bonds and fit-out costs, so have a lawyer review the lease
• Check council approvals for the premises and any signage
• Public liability and contents insurance, plus workers compensation once you hire
• Unsold seasonal stock can tie up cash, so plan markdowns
• Register an ABN and check GST registration requirements

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your premises, lease bond, fit-out and opening stock. These are estimates only, so get quotes for your own location before committing.

Check commercial lease terms, bonds and fit-out costs, and have a lawyer review the lease. Also check council approvals for the premises and signage, public liability and contents insurance, workers compensation once you hire, and ABN and GST registration.

Monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your location, range and trading hours. Unsold seasonal stock can tie up cash, so plan markdowns. You would typically plan on at least about 35 hours a week.