Needlework shop with stitching classes

Local hobby stitchers, beginners wanting advice, gift buyers, and people who travel to visit a specialist shop.

Retail sales at a mark-up on stock, plus class fees and sales of extra supplies to people who attend.

• Good knowledge of needlework
• Friendly customer service and advice
• Stock buying and basic bookkeeping
• Teaching or leading small groups (helpful)

• Commercial lease terms and business rates: check these carefully, as small business rate relief may be available
• Check planning use class and whether the premises suit retail
• Public liability and contents or stock insurance
• Slow-moving stock and a seasonal pattern in sales
• Employer's liability insurance if you take on staff

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on the premises, shop fit-out and how much opening stock you buy. Slow-moving stock is a risk, so plan your buying carefully.

Check commercial lease terms and business rates, as small business rate relief may be available. Also check the planning use class suits retail, and look at public liability, stock insurance and employer's liability if you take on staff.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around £2,500 to £12,000, depending on location, stock range and whether you add classes. Sales can be seasonal. The idea assumes at least about 30 hours a week.