Independent running shop

Local runners from beginners to club members, people training for races, and gift buyers.

You buy stock at trade prices and sell at retail, with a margin on shoes, clothing and accessories. Running clubs and events can bring in repeat customers.

• Good knowledge of running and running shoes
• Customer service and fitting advice
• Stock buying and cash management
• Building a local running community

• Large opening stock costs, as shoes come in many sizes and models
• Competition from online retailers and big chains, so plan how you will stand out
• Lease terms, business rates and shop fit-out costs, check these before signing
• Public liability and stock insurance, and employers' liability once you hire
• Brands may set conditions for becoming a stockist, check these early
• Consumer returns rules apply to online and in-store sales, check what you must offer

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £25,000 to £100,000, depending on opening stock, shop fit-out, lease terms and equipment such as a treadmill. Shoes come in many sizes and models, so stock can be a large cost.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £6,000 to £30,000, depending on location, range, pricing and how well you build a local running community. Revenue is not profit, so allow for rent, rates, stock and staff.

Check lease terms, business rates and fit-out costs before signing. Also check public liability and stock insurance, employers' liability once you hire, brand stockist conditions, and the consumer returns rules that apply to online and in-store sales.