Local kitchenware and catering supply shop

Home cooks, gift shoppers, and local food businesses such as cafes, bakeries, caterers and takeaway shops.

Retail markup on products, plus regular trade orders from local food businesses. Gift sets and seasonal ranges can boost sales.

• Knowledge of kitchen and catering products
• Buying and stock control
• Customer service and sales
• Managing a small budget and lease

• Lease terms, rent and fit-out costs can be the biggest risk, so get advice before signing
• Check council requirements for the premises and any signage
• You need an ABN, and check GST registration once your turnover grows
• Public liability insurance, and cover for stock, theft and damage
• Stock tied up in slow-selling items can strain cash flow
• Workers compensation insurance is needed once you hire staff, check your state's scheme

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on lease, fit-out and opening stock. Monthly revenue is estimated at around $8,000 to $40,000. Stock tied up in slow-selling items can strain cash flow.

Check lease terms, rent and fit-out costs, and get advice before signing. Also check council requirements for the premises and signage, ABN and GST registration, insurance for liability, stock, theft and damage, and your state's workers compensation scheme once you hire.

The estimate is typically at least around 35 hours a week. Useful skills include knowledge of kitchen and catering products, buying and stock control, customer service and sales, and managing a small budget and lease.