Local grocery shopping and delivery service

Seniors, people with mobility or health limits, new parents and busy working households in your area.

A delivery fee plus a service fee or percentage of the bill, often with a weekly standing order. Customers pay for the groceries at cost.

• Reliable and organized
• Good at choosing fresh produce
• Friendly, trustworthy customer service

• Check with your insurer that your car policy covers business use and delivery, and look at commercial general liability insurance
• Handling customers' money and cards: keep clear receipts and records
• Food safety: keep cold and frozen items cold, and check whether your local public health unit has any rules for you
• Check whether your municipality requires a business licence, including for home-based businesses
• Register for GST/HST with the CRA once revenue passes the small supplier threshold
• Winter driving, icy walkways and heavy bags can slow you down and cause strain

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $200 to $1,500, depending on what you already have, such as a suitable vehicle, insulated bags and basic record-keeping tools, and any insurance changes you need.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $600 to $3,000, depending on how many regular customers you build, your pricing and the hours you work. Winter driving and heavy bags can slow you down.

Check that your car insurance covers business use and delivery, and look at commercial general liability insurance. Also check municipal business licence rules, local public health guidance on keeping cold food cold, and GST/HST registration once past the small supplier threshold.