Leather repair shop

Walk-in customers from the local area, office workers, and people who own quality leather goods and want them repaired rather than replaced.

Fees per repair, with quick fixes bringing regular footfall and larger jobs like jacket relining or full bag restoration adding higher-value work.

• Leather and shoe repair techniques
• Customer service at the counter
• Pricing and quoting jobs
• Managing a workload and turnaround times

• Commercial lease terms and rent, so check carefully before signing
• Check with your local council about permits and signage for the premises
• Public liability insurance, plus insurance for customers' goods and your stock and equipment
• Workers compensation insurance once you hire staff, which differs by state
• Chemical and dye storage and ventilation in a small workspace

Startup costs are typically around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on your lease, equipment, stock and fit-out. These are estimates only. Check commercial lease terms and rent carefully before you sign.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $4,000 to $16,000, depending on location, foot traffic and whether you add services such as shoe resoling or key cutting. That is revenue, not profit.

Check with your local council about permits and signage for the premises. Also arrange public liability insurance, plus cover for customers' goods, stock and equipment, workers compensation once you hire (which differs by state), and safe chemical and dye storage.