Weekend bagel stall at farmers' markets

Market shoppers, event visitors, and regulars who pre-order dozens for the weekend.

Bagels sold singly and by the dozen, plus sandwiches and pre-orders, with stall fees and kitchen rental as your main costs.

• Baking in batches to a schedule
• Friendly selling face to face
• Planning stock to cut waste

• Food permits for temporary or market vendors vary by health unit, so check before you sell
• You will likely need to bake in an approved kitchen, as home kitchens often aren't allowed for this, so check local rules
• Commercial general liability insurance, which many markets require
• Market application deadlines, stall fees and weather, and a shorter outdoor season in colder regions
• Allergen labelling and safe food temperatures for sandwiches and spreads

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $3,500 to $15,000, depending on your stall equipment, kitchen arrangements and insurance. Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on the markets you attend and how much you bake.

Check food permits for temporary or market vendors, which vary by health unit. Home kitchens often aren't allowed, so check local rules on approved kitchens. Also check market insurance requirements, application deadlines, stall fees, allergen labelling and safe food temperatures.

Useful skills include baking in batches to a schedule, friendly face-to-face selling and planning stock to cut waste. Estimates suggest at least about 12 hours a week, depending on the markets you do. The outdoor season is shorter in colder regions.