Local Model and Hobby Shop

Local modellers, collectors, parents buying for teens, gift shoppers and hobby clubs who like to browse and talk to someone knowledgeable.

Retail margin on kits, paints and tools, with repeat sales from regulars. Extra income can come from workshops, club events, commission building or an online store.

• Deep knowledge of the hobby
• Retail stock buying and pricing
• Customer service and community building
• Basic bookkeeping

• Commercial lease terms, deposits and the cost of fitting out a unit, so get advice before signing
• Commercial general liability and contents insurance
• Check municipal business licence and zoning requirements for retail
• GST/HST registration and provincial sales tax rules, which vary by province
• Slow-moving stock ties up cash, so start with a focused range
• Winter weather can reduce foot traffic, though hobby spending often rises indoors
• Hobby paints and glues may need careful storage, so check fire and safety rules

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on the unit, lease deposit, fit-out and how wide a range of kits, paints and tools you stock at opening.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on location, range, events and whether you also sell online. Expect to work at least about 35 hours a week.

Check your lease terms and fit-out costs, municipal business licence and zoning for retail, GST/HST and provincial sales tax rules, insurance cover, and fire and safety rules for storing hobby paints and glues.