Local skate shop with fitting and repairs

Local skaters, families buying for children, roller derby and rink skaters, and gift buyers.

Retail margin on skates, gear and parts, plus small fees for servicing, and sales from events or group skate nights.

• Knowledge of skating and gear fit
• Customer service
• Stock buying and pricing
• Basic skate maintenance

• Rent and fit-out costs are the big risk, so test demand online or at markets first
• Public liability insurance, and insurance for stock and contents
• Check council approval for the premises and any signage rules
• Australian Consumer Law applies to refunds and product guarantees
• Register an ABN and check GST registration once you reach the threshold
• Employing staff means workers compensation insurance and award wages, so check your state rules

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on rent, fit-out and how much stock you buy. Rent and fit-out are the big risk, so it helps to test demand online or at markets first.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on location, stock range and how many services you offer. That is revenue, not profit, so rent, stock and wages come out of it. Plan for at least 35 hours a week.

Things to check include public liability insurance, cover for stock and contents, council approval for the premises and signage rules, Australian Consumer Law on refunds and guarantees, ABN and GST registration, and workers compensation if you employ staff.