Drone shop with repair bench

Local hobbyists, beginners wanting advice, photographers, surveyors and small businesses needing repairs or replacement parts.

Product margin, repair and set-up fees, and accessory sales. Repairs and advice give you an edge over big online sellers.

• Strong technical knowledge of drones and electronics
• Basic soldering and repair skills
• Retail and stock control

• Shop lease terms, business rates and any planning use class for the unit, so check with the landlord and council
• Lithium battery storage and fire safety, so check with your insurer and fire safety guidance
• Civil Aviation Authority rules on drone registration and pilot competence that customers will ask you about
• Public liability, stock and product liability insurance
• Stock tied up in fast-changing models that may become outdated

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £10,000 to £40,000, depending on your unit, fit-out, stock and repair tools. Fast-changing models can leave you with outdated stock, so buy carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on sales, repairs and your location. A repair bench and setup help can add income alongside product sales, but these remain estimates.

Check the shop lease, business rates and any planning use class with the landlord and council. Also check lithium battery storage and fire safety with your insurer, Civil Aviation Authority rules customers will ask about, and public liability, stock and product liability insurance.