Swimwear boutique in a small shop

Locals, tourists and holidaymakers, parents buying for kids, and swimmers and surfers who want a good fit.

Retail margin on each item sold. Add-ons like sunglasses, hats, towels and sunscreen lift the average sale. Sales peak in warmer months, so end-of-season clearance matters.

• Retail and customer service
• Buying stock and managing seasonal ranges
• Fitting advice and styling
• Basic bookkeeping and stock control

• Commercial leases have long terms and fit-out costs, so get advice from a solicitor before signing
• Check public liability and contents insurance, and workers compensation once you hire staff
• Check with your local council about signage, fit-out and trading approvals
• Seasonal sales mean quiet months, so plan your cash flow carefully
• Check Australian Consumer Law rules on refunds and returns
• GST registration is required once your turnover reaches the threshold, so check with the ATO

Startup costs are typically around $20,000 to $90,000, depending on the shop's location and size, fit-out and how much opening stock you buy. These figures are estimates, not quotes.

Commercial leases have long terms and fit-out costs, so get advice from a solicitor before signing. Also check public liability, contents and workers compensation insurance, council rules on signage and trading approvals, Australian Consumer Law on refunds, and GST registration.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on location, stock range and the season. Estimates assume at least about 30 hours a week. Quiet months are common, so plan your cash flow carefully.