Local boot and shoe shop

Local shoppers, tradespeople needing work boots, families buying for the seasons, and people who want to try footwear on before buying.

You buy stock at wholesale and sell at retail. Extra income can come from insoles, socks, care products, and repairs or stretching done in house or through a partner.

• Customer service and fitting advice
• Buying and stock control
• Basic bookkeeping
• Knowing your niche products

• Stock is your biggest cost and sizes can be left unsold, so start with a focused range
• Seasonality is strong in Canada, with winter boots needing cash early and sandals and shoes selling in other months
• Check commercial lease terms, deposits and what the landlord expects for fit-out
• Check with your municipality for a business licence and signage rules
• Commercial general liability and property or stock insurance
• GST/HST or provincial sales tax registration, which varies by province
• In Quebec, check French-language requirements for signs, packaging and receipts
• Staff may bring WCB or WSIB obligations, so check your provincial rules

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $40,000 to $120,000, depending on lease deposits, fit-out and opening stock. Stock is your biggest cost, so a focused range can help limit unsold sizes.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $10,000 to $45,000, depending on location, niche and season. Winter boots need cash early, while other months suit shoes and sandals. The estimates assume about 35 hours a week or more.

Check your municipality for a business licence and signage rules, and review lease terms. Check GST/HST or provincial sales tax registration, French-language rules if you're in Quebec, WCB or WSIB duties if hiring, and insurance.