Local craft shop with workshops

Local crafters, parents and schools, gift buyers and people who want to try a new hobby.

Retail margin on supplies and kits, plus workshop ticket sales and a growing base of regular customers.

• Knowledge of art and craft materials
• Stock buying and cash flow management
• Friendly customer service
• Running small classes or finding people who can

• Commercial lease terms, rent and business rates, so check what applies to your unit
• Shop insurance, including stock, public liability and employer's liability if you hire staff
• Unsold stock ties up cash, so start small and reorder what sells
• Product safety and labelling for kits and materials, especially for children
• Check planning use class and any signage rules with your council

Startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on your premises, fit-out and how much stock you buy. Starting with a smaller range and reordering what sells can help keep your initial outlay down.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on your location, product range, online sales and how many paid workshops you run. Unsold stock ties up cash, so watch what sells.

Check commercial lease terms, rent and business rates for your unit. Also check shop insurance, product safety and labelling for kits and materials, especially for children, plus planning use class and signage rules with your council.