Local health and beauty shop

Local shoppers, gift buyers and regulars who like to see, test and ask about products in person.

You sell stock at a markup over wholesale. Gift sets, loyalty offers and a few exclusive brands help you stand out from chain stores.

• Retail and customer service
• Product knowledge and recommending products
• Stock control and basic bookkeeping

• Commercial leases can be a long commitment, so have it reviewed before signing
• Check council approval for using the premises as a shop and any signage rules
• Cosmetics and therapeutic goods have rules: check TGA and chemical import requirements for what you sell
• Public liability and stock insurance, and workers compensation once you hire staff
• Unsold stock can tie up cash, so start with a small range

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your premises, how you set up the shop and how much stock you buy. Starting with a small range avoids tying up cash in unsold stock.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your location, range, pricing and how many regular customers you build. This is sales before rent, stock and wages, and the idea needs about 35 hours a week at minimum.

Check council approval for using the premises as a shop and any signage rules, and have a commercial lease reviewed before signing. Also check TGA and chemical import requirements for what you sell, and public liability, stock and workers compensation insurance.