Online store fixtures and equipment reseller

New and growing independent shops, market stall holders, pop-up retailers, cafés and boutiques opening or refreshing a space.

You earn the margin between the supplier's price and your selling price, plus delivery charges. Bundles for a whole shop fit-out raise the order value.

• Product knowledge and sourcing
• Customer service and quoting
• Basic website and listing management

• Register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold, and check how provincial sales taxes apply to your sales
• Freight on bulky items can wipe out your margin, so get shipping quotes before you set prices
• Check your supplier's returns and damage policy, because you carry the customer relationship
• Check whether you need a home-based business licence from your municipality

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $500 to $4,000, depending on how you build your shop or catalogue site and any stock you choose to hold. Orders can ship direct from suppliers, so stock may be minimal.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $5,000, depending on how many retailers you reach and the size of their orders. The estimate assumes at least about 8 hours of work a week.

Things to check: GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold, how provincial sales taxes apply, freight quotes on bulky items before setting prices, your supplier's returns and damage policy, and any home-based business licence from your municipality.