Local electric motor and parts counter shop

Electricians, mechanics, millwrights, farmers, small manufacturers and homeowners who need a motor quickly.

Margin on motors and parts sold over the counter, plus repeat trade accounts and special orders for less common motors.

• Knowing motor types, sizes and ratings
• Trade customer service
• Inventory and supplier management

• Stock ties up a lot of cash, so start with fast-moving sizes
• Most municipalities require a business licence and the right zoning for retail in an industrial unit, so confirm with your municipality before opening
• Check electrical product certification (such as CSA or cUL marking) and energy efficiency rules for what you sell
• Commercial general liability and product liability insurance
• WCB/WSIB coverage rules by province once you hire staff
• Trade customers often expect credit terms, so manage late payment risk

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your premises, fit-out and how much stock you buy. Stock ties up a lot of cash, so starting with fast-moving sizes is worth considering.

Check with your municipality about a business licence and the right zoning for retail in an industrial unit. Also check electrical product certification, such as CSA or cUL marking, energy efficiency rules for what you sell, and WCB/WSIB coverage rules by province once you hire staff.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your location, stock range and how many trade customers you win. Trade customers often expect credit terms, so plan for late payment risk.