Local goldfish and aquarium shop

Families buying a first pet fish, hobbyists upgrading their setups and gift buyers. Regulars come back for feed and water care products.

Margin on live fish, plus higher-value tanks and equipment and regular repeat sales of feed and consumables. Some shops add a paid tank setup or servicing visit.

• Knowledge of fish care and water quality
• Friendly, patient customer service
• Basic stock control and retail pricing

• Check your state or territory rules on which fish species can be kept or sold, as some are restricted to protect waterways
• Check with your local council about shop zoning, signage and trade waste approvals
• Public liability and stock insurance
• Live fish losses from illness or power failure, so plan quarantine and backup power
• Animal welfare laws that apply to selling live animals in your state
• High fixed costs such as rent and electricity before sales build up

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $25,000 to $80,000, depending on rent, display tanks, stock and fit-out. Fixed costs such as rent and electricity continue before sales build up, so plan your cash flow carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on your location, range and how many regulars return for feed and water care products. Estimates suggest at least about 35 hours a week.

Check your state or territory rules on which fish species can be kept or sold, as some are restricted to protect waterways. Also check animal welfare laws for selling live animals, council zoning, signage and trade waste approvals, and insurance.