Local telecom equipment trade counter

Local network and phone installers, electricians doing data work, IT support firms, offices and small resellers.

Margin on products sold, with repeat trade accounts as the core. Delivery, configuration and account terms for regular customers can add income.

• Product knowledge and technical advice
• Stock control and buying
• Building trade relationships

• Stock ties up cash, so start with fast-moving items and avoid overbuying
• Radio and wireless equipment generally needs ISED certification, so check every product you stock
• Check municipal business licence and zoning, plus commercial general liability and property insurance
• Provincial electronics recycling programs may apply to sellers, so check your province
• Offering credit to trade customers carries bad-debt risk, so set clear terms
• Register for GST/HST and check provincial sales tax; hiring staff means WCB/WSIB rules in your province

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $25,000 to $100,000 CAD, depending on premises, how much stock you buy and your fit-out. Stock ties up cash, so starting with fast-moving items is one way to manage this.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $15,000 to $70,000 CAD, depending on your location, stock range and trade customer base. That is revenue rather than profit, so allow for stock, rent and wages.

Check municipal business licence and zoning, plus commercial general liability and property insurance. Also check ISED certification for radio and wireless products, provincial electronics recycling rules, GST/HST and provincial sales tax, and WCB/WSIB rules if you hire staff.