Local print and copy shop

Local businesses, schools, clubs, charities, tradespeople, event organisers and walk-in customers needing something printed quickly.

Charge per job or per item, with repeat orders from local businesses. Extras such as design, binding, laminating and rush jobs add to the margin.

• Basic design software such as Canva or Adobe
• Customer service and quoting
• Fixing and maintaining printers
• Organising busy workloads

• Check the lease, business rates and whether small business rate relief could apply
• Check with your council whether the premises can be used as a print shop and about any signage rules
• Public liability and equipment insurance, plus employer's liability insurance once you hire
• Copyright and trademark issues if customers send artwork they do not own
• Correct disposal of ink, toner and waste, so check what your local council and suppliers require
• Machine breakdowns can stop all your work, so plan for servicing and repair costs

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the premises and the printers and finishing equipment you buy. Plan for servicing and repair costs, as breakdowns can stop your work.

Check the lease, business rates and whether small business rate relief could apply, plus with your council about premises use and signage rules. Also check insurance, copyright and trademark issues on customer artwork, and waste disposal for ink and toner.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around £4,000 to £20,000, depending on your customer base and the range of print you offer. That is revenue, not profit. Expect around 35 hours a week at minimum.