Local DIY and hardware shop

Local homeowners, landlords, small builders and tradespeople who want something quickly without driving to a retail park.

You buy from wholesalers and suppliers and sell at a markup. Extras such as key cutting, paint mixing, cut-to-size materials and trade accounts add repeat custom.

• Good product knowledge or willingness to learn
• Friendly, practical customer advice
• Stock control and ordering
• Basic bookkeeping

• Lease terms, business rates and whether the unit has the right planning use for retail, check with the landlord and your council
• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus stock and contents cover
• Rules on selling paints, solvents and other chemicals, including labelling and storage, check with Trading Standards and the Health and Safety Executive
• If you sell electrical tools or batteries, check whether you need to register under producer responsibility rules
• Competition from big chains and online sellers, so cash flow and stock choice matter
• Employer's liability insurance once you take on staff

Startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the premises, fit-out and how much opening stock you buy. These are estimates, so check lease terms and business rates before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on your location, range and footfall. The estimate assumes at least about 40 hours a week. Revenue is not profit, so allow for stock, rent and staffing.

Check lease terms, business rates and planning use for retail with the landlord and council. Check Trading Standards and HSE guidance on selling paints, solvents and chemicals, producer responsibility registration for electrical tools or batteries, and insurance including employer's liability once you hire.