Local model and hobby shop

Local modellers, collectors, wargamers, parents and gift buyers, plus online customers if you also sell on the web.

Shop sales at a mark-up on stock, helped by repeat buyers of paints and supplies, and sometimes events, workshops or commission building.

• Deep modelling knowledge
• Buying and stock control
• Customer service
• Basic bookkeeping

• Rent, business rates and a lease are long commitments, so check the terms with a solicitor
• Check whether the unit has the right planning use for retail with your council
• Public liability insurance, plus buildings and stock cover, and employer's liability if you hire
• Slow-moving stock can tie up a lot of cash
• Competition from online sellers, so think about what makes your shop worth visiting

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £10,000 to £40,000, depending on the unit, the shop fit-out and how much stock you buy. Slow-moving stock can tie up a lot of cash, so plan your buying carefully.

Check the lease terms with a solicitor, as rent and business rates are long commitments. Ask your council whether the unit has the right planning use for retail, and check public liability, buildings and stock cover, plus employer's liability if you hire.

Estimates suggest from around 35 hours a week. Monthly revenue is typically around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on location, range and trade. Useful skills include deep modelling knowledge, buying and stock control, customer service and basic bookkeeping.