Local shop fit-out supplier and installer

Independent retailers, cafes, pharmacies, convenience stores and franchisees opening or refitting a shop.

Margin on equipment sold, plus a charge for measuring, delivery and installation. Repeat work comes from refits, new branches and referrals from shopfitters and landlords.

• Practical installation and basic tool skills
• Measuring, layout planning and quoting
• Sales and relationship building with local businesses

• Public liability insurance and cover for your tools and stock
• Installation involving electrical work, such as lighting or till wiring, needs a licensed electrician in most states, check your state rules
• Heavy lifting and working at height, plan safe work practices
• Quote carefully, as measuring errors and delayed deliveries can cost you money
• Check council zoning if you rent a unit for storage, and workers compensation once you hire

Startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on your tools, vehicle, insurance and whether you rent a small unit to hold stock. Specialty items can be ordered in from suppliers as needed.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many shops you win as customers and the size of each job. Careful quoting matters, as measuring errors and delayed deliveries can cost you money.

Check whether electrical work such as lighting or till wiring needs a licensed electrician in your state. Also check public liability and tool and stock insurance, safe practices for heavy lifting and working at height, council zoning for a storage unit, and workers compensation.