Discount variety shop

Families, retirees, students and anyone on a tight budget who wants everyday items without paying supermarket or department store prices.

You buy stock in bulk at low prices and sell it for a small margin on each item. Profit depends on steady foot traffic, fast-selling lines and keeping rent and waste under control.

• Finding good wholesale deals
• Stock control and ordering
• Customer service
• Basic bookkeeping

• Margins are thin, so rent and stock that doesn't sell can quickly cause losses
• Imported goods must meet Australian product safety rules and labelling, check with the ACCC before buying toys, electrical items or children's products
• If you sell packaged food, check with your local council about food business registration and labelling rules
• Check lease terms carefully, including length, rent reviews and fit-out costs
• GST registration is needed once turnover reaches the threshold, and you will need a point-of-sale system to track it

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on shop size, lease terms, fit-out and your opening stock. Check lease length, rent reviews and fit-out costs carefully before committing.

Check that imported goods meet Australian product safety rules and labelling, and ask the ACCC before buying toys, electrical items or children's products. If you sell packaged food, check food business registration and labelling rules with your local council.

Monthly revenue is typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on location and stock. Margins are thin, so rent and stock that doesn't sell can quickly cause losses. Plan on at least about 40 hours a week.