Local hobby shop with a gaming table

Local hobbyists, families, gift shoppers, schools and clubs, plus players who pay or buy for events.

Retail sales of stock, plus event entry fees, workshop tickets, table rental and special orders. An online store can add extra sales in quiet months.

• Strong product knowledge across several hobbies
• Buying and managing stock
• Running events and welcoming newcomers
• Basic bookkeeping

• Commercial lease terms, deposits and rent increases, so have the lease reviewed before signing
• Stock is a big upfront cost and slow-moving items tie up cash
• Check your municipality for a business licence, zoning, signage and occupancy rules
• Commercial general liability and property insurance, especially if you host events
• Winter weather and post-holiday months can slow foot traffic, so plan cash flow
• Collect GST/HST and check provincial sales tax rules once registered; if you hire, check WCB/WSIB coverage in your province

Startup costs are typically around $30,000 to $120,000, depending on your premises, lease terms and how much opening stock you buy. These are estimates, and stock is a big upfront cost, so plan your cash carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on location, range, foot traffic and how often you run events. These are estimates, not guarantees, and winter and post-holiday months can be slower.

Check your municipality for a business licence, zoning, signage and occupancy rules, and have the commercial lease reviewed before signing. Also check liability and property insurance, especially for events, GST/HST and provincial sales tax, and WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire.