East asian herbs and teas shop

Local residents from East Asian communities, tea and wellness enthusiasts, and customers sent by nearby practitioners such as acupuncturists.

Retail sales of herbs, teas and packaged remedies, sold by weight or by the item. Gift sets and tea blends can add margin. Repeat customers are the core of the business.

• Product knowledge and willingness to keep learning
• Customer service and clear communication
• Stock control and supplier negotiation
• Language skills useful for your local community

• Health Canada regulates natural health products, so check that each product you sell has the required licence number and that your supplier is authorized
• Avoid health or cure claims in the shop and on labels, as advertising rules are strict
• Some herbs and animal-derived ingredients are restricted or banned for import or sale, so check with Health Canada and the Canada Border Services Agency
• Giving diagnoses or treatment advice may count as practising a regulated profession in some provinces, so check your provincial rules
• Commercial general liability insurance, a municipal business licence and GST/HST registration once you pass the threshold
• Lease commitments and slow winter months can strain cash flow in the early period

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $30,000 to $120,000, depending on location, shop size, fit-out and opening stock. Monthly revenue is estimated at around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on foot traffic and range. Lease commitments can strain early cash flow.

Things to check: Health Canada regulates natural health products, so confirm each product has the required licence number and your supplier is authorized. Also check restricted or banned herbs and animal-derived ingredients with Health Canada and the CBSA, plus your municipal business licence and insurance.

Check before you advise customers. Giving diagnoses or treatment advice may count as practising a regulated profession in some provinces, so check your provincial rules. Also avoid health or cure claims in the shop and on labels, as advertising rules are strict.