Seasonal gift wrap market stall

Market shoppers buying gifts, plus local crafters and small sellers who need packaging.

Margin on products sold at the stall, with wrapping fees and bundle deals. Income is concentrated in the weeks around the holidays and other event seasons.

• Friendly selling
• Eye-catching display
• Buying stock and tracking sales
• Handling cash and card payments

• Check whether markets require a vendor permit, a municipal licence or proof of insurance
• Commercial general liability insurance is often required by market organizers
• Outdoor markets in winter mean cold and weather risk, so plan for protection, heating and stock safety
• Check when you must register for GST/HST and collect sales tax
• Some weekends may sell poorly, so keep your stock buying modest at first

Startup costs are typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on your stall setup, display materials, weather protection and how much stock you buy. These are estimates, so keep your first stock order modest and build up from there.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $400 to $2,000, depending on which markets you book and how busy they are. Some weekends may sell poorly, and a stall can take about 8 hours a week at minimum.

Check whether each market requires a vendor permit, a municipal licence or proof of insurance. Organizers often ask for commercial general liability insurance. Also check when you must register for GST/HST and collect sales tax.