Pool and snooker supplies shop with showroom

Local players and clubs, pub and bar owners, and households buying a games room table.

Mark-up on accessories and cues, larger margins on tables, and paid services such as installation, re-clothing and cue repairs.

• Detailed knowledge of cues, cloth and tables
• Retail and customer service
• Basic table fitting or repair, or a partner who can do it
• Stock and cash flow management

• Rent, business rates and fit-out costs, so work out your break-even before signing a lease
• Tables are heavy and bulky, so check delivery, storage and lifting arrangements and insurance
• Public liability, stock and contents insurance
• Check planning and use class for the premises with your council
• Cash tied up in table stock, so avoid over-ordering

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the premises, fit-out and how much table and cue stock you hold. Work out your break-even point before signing a lease.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £4,000 to £20,000, depending on location, table sales and any re-clothing or fitting work you offer. That is revenue, not profit. Estimates start from around 35 hours a week.

Check rent, business rates and fit-out costs, and the planning use class for the premises with your council. Tables are heavy, so check delivery, storage and lifting arrangements and insurance, plus public liability, stock and contents cover.