Neighbourhood health food shop

Health-conscious shoppers, people with dietary restrictions, families, older adults and fitness fans who live or work nearby.

You buy from wholesalers and local producers and sell at a markup. Extra income can come from a small grab-and-go counter, loyalty cards, gift baskets and your own store-brand bulk items.

• Customer service
• Stock and cash management
• Knowing natural food products and dietary needs
• Negotiating with suppliers

• Check with your municipality about business licences, zoning and signage rules
• Check Health Canada and CFIA rules on labelling, and on selling supplements (natural health products need approved licensed products)
• If you sell prepared or packaged-in-store food, check permit needs with your local public health unit
• Commercial general liability and property insurance
• Quebec has French-language labelling and signage requirements, so check these if you open there
• Thin margins and slow stock turnover can tie up cash, so start with a tight range

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on your premises, fit-out, opening stock and the range you choose. Starting with a tight range can help manage cash.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on location, product range and local competition. Owners should expect to work about 40 hours a week or more.

Check business licence, zoning and signage rules with your municipality. Also check Health Canada and CFIA labelling rules, requirements for selling supplements, public health permits for prepared food, insurance, and French-language rules if you open in Quebec.