Kilt shop with hire and sales

Wedding parties, individuals buying a kilt for life events, visitors and tourists, and groups attending formal occasions.

Hire fees for outfits, sales of kilts and accessories such as sporrans, belts, socks and shirts, and some alteration or made-to-measure work.

• Fitting and measuring
• Knowledge of tartans and Highland dress
• Retail and stock management
• Selling and customer service

• Rent, business rates and a long lease are big commitments, so check terms carefully
• Stock is a major upfront cost and seasonal demand can make cash flow tight
• You will need public liability and stock insurance, and employer's liability once you hire staff
• Check shop and planning rules for your premises with your local council
• Set clear hire terms for deposits, late returns and damage

Estimates suggest startup costs typically sit around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the premises, lease terms, fit-out and how much hire and sales stock you buy. Stock is a major upfront cost, so get quotes first.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on location, stock range and the season. Demand is seasonal, so cash flow can be tight, and rent and rates still need paying in quiet months.

Check the lease terms, business rates, and shop and planning rules for your premises with your local council. You will also want to check insurance, including public liability and stock cover, and set clear hire terms for deposits, late returns and damage.