Bag and luggage shop

Open a small shop selling bags, luggage and accessories to locals and travellers in a busy shopping area.

Rows of handbags and backpacks displayed on shelves in a retail shop.
Startup costC$25k to C$100k
Monthly revenueC$6k to C$30k
Time needed35+ h/week
First incomeWeeks
  • C$25k-100k
  • Full-time
  • Own premises
  • Licence or permit needed

Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.

What it is

A small retail unit stocking everyday bags, backpacks, suitcases and accessories, often with a few simple repair or gift extras.

Your first three steps

  1. Visit nearby shopping streets and malls to check foot traffic, rents and which bag shops already exist
  2. Talk to wholesalers and brand reps about minimum orders and payment terms
  3. Build a budget covering rent, deposit, fit-out and first stock, then ask landlords about short or flexible leases
Who pays

Local shoppers, students, commuters, tourists and gift buyers who want to see and try a bag before buying.

How it makes money

Retail markup on stock bought from wholesalers, with higher sales around back-to-school, holidays and travel season.

Skills that help
  • Buying and stock control
  • Selling and customer service
  • Basic bookkeeping
Watch out for
  • Commercial lease terms, including deposits, extra charges and length of commitment
  • Check your municipality for a business licence and signage rules
  • Commercial general liability and contents insurance
  • Seasonal sales and slow winter or summer months can strain cash flow
  • WCB/WSIB coverage rules by province once you hire staff

🔒 Full research report for Canada

Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.

Coming soon

Questions people ask

How much does it cost to open a bag and luggage shop in Canada?

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your premises, lease deposits, fit-out and how much stock you buy to fill the shop.

How much revenue can a bag and luggage shop make?

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on location, foot traffic and range. Seasonal sales and slow winter or summer months can strain cash flow, so plan ahead.

What should I check before opening a bag shop?

Check your commercial lease terms, including deposits, extra charges and length of commitment. Also check your municipality for a business licence and signage rules, commercial liability and contents insurance, and WCB/WSIB coverage rules once you hire staff.

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