Eastern european neighbourhood grocery shop

Eastern European families and newcomers looking for familiar foods, plus local shoppers who like to cook or try new flavours.

Mark-up on products bought from wholesalers and importers. Deli counters, ready-made items like pierogi, and holiday gift baskets can add higher-margin sales.

• Sourcing and buying stock
• Customer service
• Stock control and cash handling
• Knowing the products and cultures you serve

• Food premises permit or inspection from your local public health unit, and any food handler training required
• Federal rules (CFIA) for imported foods and labelling, including bilingual labelling; check what applies to your products and any Quebec language rules
• Rules on selling alcohol, which are set by each province and often need a separate licence
• Commercial general liability and property insurance
• Shelf life and spoilage on fresh items, so start with small orders
• Collecting and remitting GST/HST or provincial sales tax, depending on your province

Estimates suggest startup costs of typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on your premises and how much stock you buy. Starting with small orders can help limit spoilage on fresh items.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your location, product range and customer base. Full-time hours are usual, starting at around 40 hours a week.

Check food premises permits or inspection with your local public health unit, plus CFIA rules for imported foods and bilingual labelling, and Quebec language rules. Alcohol sales are set by each province and often need a separate licence.