Online sportswear store

Active shoppers, club and team members, and gym-goers who want a specialist range.

Profit on each item sold (the gap between wholesale and retail price), plus extra from team orders and bundles.

• Spotting what active people want
• Online selling and basic photography
• Stock and order management

• Registering for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold, and checking provincial sales tax rules (PST/QST) where you sell
• Many big brands restrict who can sell them, so check dealer agreements and avoid unauthorised stock
• Unsold sizes and seasonal items can tie up cash, so start with a small range
• Shipping costs across Canada and returns policy, check your margins
• Commercial general liability insurance and product claims, check what cover you need
• Quebec customers may need French-language product information and site content, check your obligations

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your website, the stock you hold and whether suppliers ship direct. Starting with a small range can help limit unsold sizes and seasonal items.

Check GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold, and provincial sales tax rules (PST/QST). Many big brands restrict who can sell them, so check dealer agreements. Quebec customers may need French-language content, and check insurance cover.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $5,000, depending on your niche, range and marketing, with at least about 8 hours a week. Check your margins against shipping costs across Canada and your returns policy.