Map and Travel Shop on a Local High Street

Walkers and holidaymakers, locals planning trips, boat owners, gift buyers, schools and collectors of old or decorative maps.

You sell stock at retail price above your trade cost. Extra income can come from framing, gifts, map accessories and an online shop alongside the premises.

• Customer service and helpful local knowledge
• Buying and stock control
• Basic bookkeeping
• Merchandising a small shop

• Rent, business rates and a lease commitment, so get advice before signing
• Seasonal sales that may be strong in summer and holidays and quieter in winter
• Competition from online shops and phone map apps, so a strong local range and good advice matter
• Public liability insurance, plus buildings and stock cover as needed
• Check planning and change-of-use rules for the premises with your council
• Employer's liability insurance if you hire staff
• Check when VAT registration becomes compulsory

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £10,000 to £45,000, depending on the premises, shop fit-out and how much stock you buy. Get advice on rent, business rates and any lease commitment before signing.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around £4,000 to £15,000, depending on your location, range and opening hours. Sales may be strong in summer and holidays and quieter in winter, so plan your cash flow carefully.

Check planning and change-of-use rules for the premises with your council, and public liability insurance plus buildings and stock cover as needed. Check employer's liability insurance if you hire staff, and when VAT registration becomes compulsory.