Local Phone and Smart Device Shop

Everyday shoppers, older customers who want hands-on help, students, and newcomers to Canada who need an unlocked phone and a plan.

Margin on device and accessory sales, plus paid setup sessions. Accessories usually earn higher margins than phones.

• Knowing phones and smart devices
• Patient, clear explaining
• Stock buying and cash flow
• Selling and customer service

• Commercial general liability and contents insurance, including theft cover
• Check that devices you sell are certified for Canada (ISED) and avoid counterfeit accessories
• Provincial electronics recycling or eco fees may apply, check your provincial program
• GST/HST or PST registration and collection rules for your province
• Selling used or refurbished phones may involve extra checks, such as stolen or blacklisted devices
• Quebec has French-language signage and service rules
• Lease length and rent are a big fixed cost, so negotiate carefully

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $20,000 to $90,000, depending on your lease, shop fit-out and how much stock you buy. Rent is a big fixed cost, so negotiate carefully.

Estimates put monthly revenue typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on location, stock range and how much you earn from setup help and accessories. Expect full-time hours, starting at about 40 hours a week.

Things to check: ISED certification for devices and avoiding counterfeit accessories; provincial electronics recycling or eco fees; GST/HST or PST registration; extra checks for used or refurbished phones, such as stolen or blacklisted devices; insurance; and Quebec French-language signage rules.