Local hydroponics and grow supplies shop

Home veggie and herb growers, indoor plant hobbyists, aquaponics fans, small market gardeners and nurseries.

Retail margin on products, plus repeat sales of consumables like nutrients and growing media. Some shops add workshops or starter kits to lift the average sale.

• Product knowledge of lighting, nutrients and water systems
• Customer service and friendly advice
• Stock control and buying
• Basic bookkeeping

• Some state or territory rules and council policies affect what a shop can sell or how it can display products. Check with your state regulator and council before ordering stock
• Some nutrients, pH adjusters and other chemicals may be classed as dangerous goods for storage and sale, so check the requirements
• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus stock and theft cover
• Lease terms and rent, as tight margins mean a slow start can be costly
• GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold

Startup costs are typically around $30,000 to $120,000, depending on the lease, shopfitting and how much stock you carry. These are estimates, so get quotes for rent, fit-out, insurance and your opening stock before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on location, range and how many regular growers you attract. These are estimates of revenue, not profit, and stock, rent and wages come out of that.

Check state or territory rules and council policies on what a shop can sell or display, and whether some nutrients, pH adjusters and chemicals count as dangerous goods. Also check insurance, lease terms and GST registration.