Neighbourhood Comic Book Shop

Local fans of all ages, parents buying graphic novels for kids, collectors and gift shoppers.

Margin on new comics and books, higher margin on back issues, toys and collectibles, plus extras like event fees, grading supplies and pull-list subscriptions.

• Deep knowledge of comics and what sells
• Customer service and community building
• Stock ordering and basic bookkeeping

• Commercial lease terms, deposits and what your municipality allows in the zoning
• Commercial general liability and contents insurance
• Collecting and remitting GST/HST or PST (check your province's rules for retailers)
• Distributor ordering is mostly non-returnable, so over-ordering ties up cash
• Winter weather can reduce foot traffic, so plan for slower months

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $20,000 to $80,000, depending on the premises, fit-out and opening stock. Keep in mind that distributor ordering is mostly non-returnable, so over-ordering can tie up your cash.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on location, stock and how active your local fan community is. These figures are revenue before rent, stock and other costs, and winter can mean slower months.

Check commercial lease terms, deposits and what your municipality allows in the zoning. Also check commercial general liability and contents insurance, and your province's rules for collecting and remitting GST/HST or PST as a retailer.