Start an independent comic shop

Local fans of all ages, parents buying for children, collectors and gift buyers.

Margin on new comics and graphic novels, plus higher-margin back issues, merchandise and games. Pull-list subscriptions and events bring repeat custom.

• Deep knowledge of comics and graphic novels
• Stock buying and cash flow control
• Friendly customer service
• Community building

• Check the planning use class and business rates for any premises, and whether small business rate relief applies
• Public liability and stock and contents insurance
• Distributors may set minimum orders or terms for new accounts, so check before committing to a lease
• Cash tied up in unsold stock and a lease you are tied into
• No special licence is normally needed to sell comics, trading cards or toys, but products must meet general product safety rules (toys need appropriate safety marking) and you should follow age-rating guidance on mature titles; check with Trading Standards
• Register your business with HMRC and check with your council for any rules on shop signage or events in the premises

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the premises, the fit-out and how much opening stock you buy. Stock and a lease tie up cash, so plan your budget carefully before signing anything.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £4,000 to £20,000, depending on location, stock range and how well events and pull lists build a regular crowd. That is revenue, not profit, so allow for rent, rates and stock costs.

No special licence is normally needed to sell comics, trading cards or toys. Check with Trading Standards about product safety rules, toy safety marking and age-rating guidance on mature titles. Also check the planning use class and business rates for your premises.