Local equestrian shop with feed and tack

Local horse owners, riders, riding schools, livery yards and parents buying for children.

Markup on retail goods, plus steady repeat sales of feed and bedding, and extras such as saddle and rug services.

• Strong horse and tack knowledge
• Retail and stock control
• Customer service and fitting advice
• Bookkeeping

• Lease terms, rent and business rates, take advice before signing
• Public liability and stock insurance, plus employer's liability once you hire
• Cash tied up in stock and seasonal swings in sales
• Fitting riding hats and saddles properly, get training from manufacturers or trade bodies
• Storing feed safely and legal rules on feed sales, check with your local council or trading standards
• Competition from online sellers on price

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the premises, fit-out and how much saddlery, clothing and feed stock you hold. Cash tied up in stock and seasonal sales swings are worth planning for.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £5,000 to £25,000, depending on location, range and how close you are to local yards. Competition from online sellers on price is something to consider.

Check lease terms, rent and business rates, and take advice before signing. Check public liability and stock insurance, training for fitting riding hats and saddles, and rules on storing and selling feed with your local council or trading standards.