Fine pen and stationery shop

Collectors, gift buyers, students, professionals and local businesses buying executive gifts or quality stationery.

Retail margin on pens, inks and accessories, plus extra income from services such as engraving, gift wrapping and corporate orders.

• Strong product knowledge
• Retail selling and customer service
• Stock buying and budgeting
• Basic bookkeeping

• Commercial lease terms, bonds and fit-out costs, get advice before signing
• Check with your local council about shop signage and use of the premises
• Public liability and contents insurance, plus workers compensation once you hire
• Slow-selling stock and high fixed costs if foot traffic is low
• Register for GST once turnover reaches the threshold

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your lease and bond, the fit-out and how much stock you buy. These are estimates, so get advice on lease terms before signing anything.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on your location, stock range and whether you add extras such as engraving, repairs or business supply. This is an estimate of revenue before costs, not profit.

Check commercial lease terms, bonds and fit-out costs, and get advice before signing. Check with your local council about signage and use of the premises, insurance such as public liability and contents, workers compensation once you hire, and GST registration.