Rugby specialist shop

Players of all ages, parents buying for junior teams, clubs, schools and universities.

Retail margin on gear sold in the shop and online, plus team orders and branded kit. Busy periods are usually before and during the rugby seasons.

• Strong rugby and equipment knowledge
• Retail selling and stock control
• Managing a lease, cash flow and part-time staff

• Rugby is a niche sport in many parts of Canada, so check demand carefully before signing a lease
• Municipal business licence, zoning and signage rules, check with your municipality
• GST/HST registration, and PST or QST rules depending on your province
• Commercial general liability and contents insurance, and WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire
• Seasonal cash flow, with quieter winter months and large upfront stock purchases
• Quebec shops should check French-language requirements for signs and labelling

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on your premises, the amount of stock you buy and how you fit out the shop. Treat this as a guide and build your own budget before signing a lease.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $30,000, depending on your location, local clubs and schools, and the time of year. Treat this as an estimate rather than a promise.

Check demand carefully before signing a lease, since rugby is a niche sport in many parts of Canada. Also check municipal business licence, zoning and signage rules, GST/HST registration, and PST or QST rules in your province.