Mobility and care equipment shop

Older people and their families, carers, and local care homes and clinics ordering supplies.

Retail margin on products, delivery and installation fees, hire income, and repeat orders from care homes and clinics.

• Retail and stock management
• Listening and explaining products clearly
• Building relationships with local care providers
• Basic bookkeeping and cash flow planning

• Commercial lease terms, business rates and any change of use permission, so check with the landlord and local council
• Product and public liability insurance, plus stock and contents cover
• Check MHRA guidance on medical devices, labelling and supplier documentation
• Staff are likely needed for opening hours, so factor in employer's liability insurance and wages
• Stock can be slow to sell and ties up cash, so start with a focused range

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £15,000 to £70,000, depending on the premises, fit-out and the range of stock you hold. Stock can be slow to sell and ties up cash, so a focused starting range may help.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £4,000 to £18,000, depending on location, range and the local care providers you work with. That is revenue, not profit, so allow for staff and rent. Estimates start from around 35 hours a week.

Check commercial lease terms, business rates and any change of use permission with the landlord and council. Check MHRA guidance on medical devices, labelling and supplier documentation, plus product, public liability, stock and employer's liability insurance if you hire staff.