Local barbecue and grill shop

Homeowners, first-time grill buyers, keen outdoor cooks, and people replacing worn-out grills or parts.

Margin on grills and accessories, repeat sales of fuel and consumables, and fees for assembly, delivery or propane refills where allowed.

• Product knowledge and friendly advice
• Stock buying and inventory control
• Basic retail and bookkeeping skills

• Rules for storing and selling propane cylinders, which vary by province and municipality. Check with your provincial safety authority and local fire department
• Any certification needed to fill or exchange propane cylinders, and whether gas appliances you sell must carry CSA or equivalent approval
• Commercial general liability and product liability insurance, plus coverage for stock and fire risk
• Strong seasonality: sales usually peak in spring and summer, so plan cash flow for slow winter months
• GST/HST and any provincial sales tax registration, and a municipal business licence

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $60,000 to $200,000, depending on shop size, location, stock levels and fit-out. Your own figure will vary with the range of grills and accessories you carry and the lease you negotiate.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on location, stock range and time of year. Sales usually peak in spring and summer, so plan your cash flow for the slower winter months.

Check propane storage and sales rules with your provincial safety authority and local fire department, as they vary. Also check any certification for filling or exchanging cylinders, CSA approval for gas appliances, insurance, sales tax registration and a municipal business licence.