Local cricket shop with bat service

Local club players, juniors and their parents, coaches, schools and cricket clubs.

Mark-up on stock sold, plus fees for bat knocking-in and repairs, and larger team and club kit orders.

• Strong knowledge of cricket equipment
• Retail and customer service
• Buying and stock control
• Basic bat repair, or willingness to learn

• Strong seasonality: sales are likely to be heavier in spring and early summer, so plan cash flow for winter
• Business rates, rent, lease terms and shop fit-out costs, so check these carefully before signing anything
• Stock is a big upfront cost and unsold kit ties up cash
• Public liability, stock and buildings or contents insurance, plus employer's liability if you hire staff
• Check planning use class for the premises with your local council
• Competition from large online sellers, so a service and local expertise offer matters

Startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £50,000, depending on premises, fit-out and especially how much stock you buy. This is an estimate, and unsold kit can tie up cash, so plan your buying carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically around £5,000 to £20,000, depending on your location, stock and services. This is a full-time business, starting at about 35 hours a week. Sales are likely to vary by season, so these are estimates only.

Check business rates, rent, lease terms and fit-out costs before signing anything. Check the planning use class with your local council, and insurance for liability, stock and buildings or contents, plus employer's liability if you hire staff.