Local dive shop with a small unit

Local divers, dive clubs, dive schools and students on training courses who need their own kit.

Retail margin on kit sales, plus fees for services such as air fills, kit hire or servicing if you offer them. Partnerships with dive schools can bring in steady trade.

• Strong diving knowledge and product expertise
• Retail and customer service
• Stock buying and managing cash flow

• Rent, business rates and opening stock are big upfront commitments, so check them carefully before signing a lease
• Compressors and cylinders are covered by pressure equipment and safety rules, so check HSE guidance and any training before offering fills
• Public liability and product liability insurance, and employer's liability once you hire
• Trade is often seasonal and weather-dependent, so plan for quiet months
• Dealer agreements with brands may set minimum orders or display rules

Startup costs are typically around £25,000 to £100,000, depending on the unit, your opening stock and any fit-out. This is an estimate, so check rent, business rates and stock costs carefully before signing a lease.

Monthly revenue is typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on location, stock range and the time of year. Trade can be seasonal and weather-dependent, so plan for quiet months. Expect to work at least around 35 hours a week.

Check HSE guidance and any training needed before offering cylinder fills, as compressors and cylinders are covered by pressure equipment and safety rules. Also check lease terms, business rates, insurance including employer's liability once you hire, and any minimum orders or display rules in brand dealer agreements.