Internet and print counter inside another shop
Set up a small computer and printing corner inside a newsagent, hostel or similar shop to keep rent and setup costs low.
- A$3k-12k
- Side hustle
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in Australia, not guarantees.
What it is
A compact internet and print point with a couple of computers and a printer-scanner, set up inside a host business such as a newsagent, hostel, laundromat or community space. The host provides the space and foot traffic.
Your first three steps
- List local hostels, newsagents and community venues with foot traffic but no printing or internet service, and pitch two or three of them
- Agree a written arrangement covering space, rent or revenue share, opening hours and who is responsible for equipment and insurance
- Buy or lease a small set of computers and a printer-scanner, and test your pricing with a short trial period
Who pays
Travellers, students, shoppers and locals who need to go online, print a ticket or scan a document while they are already there.
How it makes money
Timed computer use and per-page printing and scanning, with a rent or revenue share agreed with the host business.
Skills that help
- Negotiating a simple deal with a business owner
- Basic computer and printer troubleshooting
- Friendly, patient customer service
Watch out for
- A clear written agreement with the host, as they can end it and take your customer base
- Public liability insurance, and check whether the host's policy covers you or your equipment
- Security of your equipment when you are not there
- Customer privacy: clear browsing data and logins between sessions
- Software licences and copyright rules for copying, check what applies
- Whether the host's lease or council approval allows a second business on the premises
Deep research report · Australia
Everything you need to start: internet and print counter inside another shop
Researched with live web search for Australia: real startup prices, the licences and rules, what others charge, a break-even example, how to find your first customers and a 30-day launch plan. With sources.
- Startup costs with real prices
- Licences, registration and rules
- Pricing: what others charge
- Break-even example
- Finding your first customers
- 30-day launch plan
- Risks and how to reduce them
Questions people ask
How much does it cost to set up an internet and print counter?
Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on how many computers you install, your printer-scanner and any agreement with the host business. Get quotes for equipment and confirm what the host will provide.
How much can an internet and print counter earn?
Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the host's foot traffic, your opening hours and the services you offer. These are estimates only, and revenue is not profit after any arrangement with the host.
What should I check before setting up inside another business?
Get a clear written agreement with the host, as they can end it. Check whether the host's insurance covers you or your equipment, how you will secure the equipment, whether their lease or council approval allows a second business, and software licences.
Other ways to run this business
Similar retail ideas
Online children's furniture store
Sell kids' beds, desks, cots and storage online, shipped from a supplier or a small storage space.
- A$2k-12k
- Side hustle
- Online
Online flamenco shoes and dancewear store
Sell flamenco shoes, skirts and accessories online to dancers and dance schools across Australia.
- A$3k-12k
- Side hustle
- Online
Online folk costume and regional dress shop
Sell folk costumes, accessories and regional dress online to dance groups, community clubs and collectors across Australia.
- A$3k-12k
- Side hustle
- Online
Online parts store for park and mobile home owners
Sell parts, accessories and maintenance supplies online to owners of park homes, cabins and manufactured homes.
- A$3k-12k
- Side hustle
- Online
Online Irish goods store
Sell Irish food, knitwear and gifts online to Australians with Irish roots or a love of Ireland.
- A$3k-12k
- Side hustle
- Online
Online cut-to-size acrylic shop
Sell acrylic sheets cut to your customers' measurements, made in a garage or small workshop and posted out.
- A$3k-12k
- Side hustle
- From home