Start a local games shop with play space and trade-ins
Open a small shop selling games and collectables, with trade-ins and in-store game nights.
- £15k-60k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in the UK, not guarantees.
Official data
4,843 UK companies in this field, 48% registered in the last 2 years
SIC 47650 “Retail sale of games and toys in specialised stores”. Source: Companies House, November 2026.
What it is
A small high-street or unit-based shop selling new and used video games, board games, card games and collectables, with a trade-in counter and space for game nights and tournaments.
Your first three steps
- Test demand by running pop-up game nights or a market stall in your town
- Open trade accounts with distributors and price a few possible units, including business rates and rent
- Build a simple budget and opening stock list, and talk to your bank or a small business adviser about funding
Who pays
Families, local hobbyists, collectors and players who come for events and stay to buy.
How it makes money
Margin on new and used stock, trade-in resales, event entry fees, table hire and snacks or accessories.
Skills that help
- Strong games knowledge
- Stock buying and pricing
- Running a shop and managing a till
- Hosting events and welcoming customers
Watch out for
- Rent, business rates and a lease are big commitments, so get advice before signing
- Public liability and stock and contents insurance
- Check the planning use class for your unit and any rules on hosting events
- If you sell second-hand goods, keep records and check what is needed on trade-ins, including ID checks for sellers
- Used and imported games can be fake or stolen, so check items carefully
- If you sell food or drink, register with your local council
- Seasonal sales and competition from online sellers can make cash flow uneven
Deep research report · UK
Everything you need to start: local games shop with play space and trade-ins
Researched with live web search for United Kingdom: real startup prices, the licences and rules, what others charge, a break-even example, how to find your first customers and a 30-day launch plan. With sources.
- Startup costs with real prices
- Licences, registration and rules
- Pricing: what others charge
- Break-even example
- Finding your first customers
- 30-day launch plan
- Risks and how to reduce them
Questions people ask
How much does it cost to open a games shop in the UK?
Startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on your unit, fit-out, opening stock and insurance. These are estimates, so get advice on rent, business rates and lease terms before signing.
How much can a local games shop earn?
Monthly revenue is typically around £4,000 to £20,000, depending on location, stock and how well your events and trade-ins perform. Seasonal sales and online competition can make cash flow uneven.
What rules should I check before opening a games shop?
Check the planning use class for your unit and any rules on hosting events. If you take trade-ins, keep records and check what is needed, including ID checks for sellers. Register with the council if you sell food or drink.
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