Internet cafe with printing and drinks

Students, travellers, people without a computer or printer at home, and anyone who needs to print forms, scan documents or use a computer for a short time.

Hourly computer time, per-page printing, scanning and photocopying, and drinks and snacks. Some owners also add extras such as passport photos or document help.

• Friendly customer service
• Basic IT troubleshooting
• Managing a small shop and stock
• Careful with cash and costs

• Planning permission and the permitted use of the unit, check with your local council
• If you serve food or drink, register as a food business with your council before you open
• Public liability insurance, plus contents cover for the computers and stock
• Business rates, lease terms and a long-term rent commitment
• Software licences for the PCs and any music you play, check whether you need a music licence
• Data protection, such as clearing browsing data between users and registering with the ICO if required
• Taking care over what customers view, especially if children use the space, consider content filtering
• Income may be limited as more people have devices at home, so plan around local demand

Startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on your premises, number of computers and fit-out. These are estimates only. Check lease terms and business rates, as rent is a long-term commitment.

Monthly revenue is typically around £2,500 to £10,000, depending on your location and local demand. These are estimates, and the idea assumes at least about 30 hours a week. Income may be limited as more people have devices at home.

Check planning permission and the permitted use of the unit with your council. If serving food or drink, register as a food business before opening. Also check public liability and contents insurance, software and music licences, and data protection duties.