Pet supplies market stall

Market visitors and local pet owners who like buying from a friendly seller and trying small-batch or locally made products.

Markup on products sold at each event. Stall fees are your main running cost, and you can add online orders for repeat customers.

• Friendly selling face to face
• Display and merchandising
• Stock planning and cash handling
• Comfortable working outdoors

• Stall fees and weather can make some events unprofitable, so track sales per event
• Pet treats and other pet food may be subject to federal labelling and safety rules, so check with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) before selling, especially for imported or self-made products
• Commercial general liability insurance is often required by market organizers
• Winter slows outdoor markets in most provinces, so plan indoor events or online sales for the off-season
• Check with your municipality and the market organizer whether you need a vendor permit or business licence, and register for GST/HST once required

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $2,500 to $10,000, depending on your stall setup, display equipment and the amount and type of stock you buy.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many events you attend and what you sell. Stall fees and weather can affect results, so track sales per event.

Check CFIA labelling and safety rules for pet treats and other pet food, especially imported or self-made products. Check whether organizers require commercial general liability insurance, whether you need a vendor permit or business licence, and GST/HST registration.