Local tack shop near riding barns
Open a small shop selling saddlery, riding gear and grooming kit to horse owners and riders in your area.
- C$25k-90k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.
What it is
A small retail shop stocking bridles, halters, saddle pads, grooming kit, riding apparel, boots and horse care basics. Many owners add used tack consignment and simple repairs.
Your first three steps
- Visit local barns, riding clubs and competitions to learn what riders buy and what nearby shops already cover
- Contact Canadian and North American tack wholesalers about minimum orders, dealer terms and starter stock
- Price out a small unit near horse country and check the zoning and business licence rules with the municipality
Who pays
Horse owners, riding students, boarding barns, lesson programs and 4-H or pony club families.
How it makes money
Retail margin on new products, commission on consigned used tack, and extras like fitting advice, repairs and barn orders.
Skills that help
- Knowledge of horses and riding disciplines
- Buying and stock control
- Customer service and product fitting
Watch out for
- Commercial general liability and contents insurance
- Seasonal sales: winter can be slow in many provinces, so plan your cash flow
- Stock tied up in sizes, styles and slow sellers, so start with fast movers
- Collecting and remitting GST/HST or PST depending on your province, and check your registration needs
🔒 Full research report for Canada
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonOther ways to run this business
Mobile tack shop trailer
Take a tack and riding gear trailer to barns, shows and clinics where riders can try before they buy.
- C$8k-35k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Online tack and used tack store
Sell new and consigned used tack and riding gear online from home to riders across the country.
- C$1.5k-10k
- Side hustle
- Online
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