Online tatami mat store

Homeowners, renovators, yoga and martial arts studios, and designers working on Japanese-style or minimalist interiors.

Margin on each mat or set sold, plus extra for custom sizes, delivery and accessories. Repeat orders come from room fit-outs and referrals from designers.

• Online selling and basic website setup
• Product knowledge and clear measuring advice
• Supplier negotiation and customer service

• Natural plant-based mats may be subject to import and biosecurity conditions, so check with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry before importing
• Freight costs on large, bulky items can erode margins, so work out delivery prices up front
• Australian Consumer Law applies to refunds and product descriptions, so check your obligations
• You need an ABN, and GST registration once you reach the threshold
• If you run the business from home, check whether your council requires approval

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your website, how much stock you buy and whether you import or source locally. Work out delivery prices up front.

Check import and biosecurity conditions for natural plant-based mats with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry before importing. Also check Australian Consumer Law obligations on refunds and descriptions, ABN and GST registration, and whether your council requires approval for a home-based business.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your range, pricing and freight costs. Estimated time starts at about 10 hours a week. Freight on bulky items can erode margins.