Coin lockers for local venues

Visitors who want to store bags, coats or gear for a few hours. The venue usually gets a share or a flat fee.

Customers pay per use or per hour. You collect the income, usually after paying the venue a set fee or a percentage, and cover upkeep and card fees.

• Approaching and negotiating with venue managers
• Basic maintenance and tidiness
• Organizing regular check-ups and collections

• Commercial general liability insurance, and check whether the venue wants to be named on your policy
• A written agreement on responsibility for theft, damage, abandoned items and items left overnight
• Whether your municipality or the venue's landlord needs approval for fixed installations
• GST/HST registration once your revenue passes the small supplier threshold, and your province's sales tax rules
• Payment systems: coin boxes need regular collection, card systems have monthly fees
• In Quebec, check French-language rules for signage and instructions

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $3,000 to $12,000 CAD, depending on how many lockers you buy and whether you choose coin or card payment. Monthly revenue is estimated at roughly $300 to $1,500, depending on the venue.

Check commercial general liability insurance and whether the venue wants to be named on your policy. Also check whether your municipality or the venue's landlord needs approval for fixed installations, and agree in writing who is responsible for theft, damage and abandoned items.

Estimates suggest at least about 4 hours a week, depending on the number of lockers and how often you collect coins or check the units. Useful skills include negotiating with venue managers, basic maintenance and organizing regular check-ups.