Local school supplies and stationery shop

Pupils and parents, students, teachers, local schools and nurseries, and small businesses that need stationery.

Retail markup on stock, with extra margin from printing and copying, and bulk or account sales to schools. Takings peak around the start of terms and exam periods.

• Retail and customer service
• Stock control and buying
• Budgeting and cash handling
• Building links with local schools

• Lease terms, business rates and whether the unit has the right planning use, so check with the landlord and your council
• Shop and stock insurance, plus public liability, and employer's liability if you hire
• Product safety for children's items, so check supplier compliance
• Seasonal sales, so plan cash flow for quiet months
• Competition from supermarkets and online retailers, so look for services and local ties that set you apart
• Card payment fees and VAT registration if turnover grows

Startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on your premises, fit-out and opening stock. These are estimates. Check lease terms, business rates and the unit's planning use before you commit to a property.

Monthly revenue is typically around £6,000 to £25,000, depending on your location, range and services such as printing or laminating. That is revenue, not profit. Sales are seasonal, so plan your cash flow for quieter months.

Check lease terms, business rates and whether the unit has the right planning use with the landlord and your council. Check shop and stock insurance, public liability, and employer's liability if you hire. Also check supplier compliance on product safety for children's items.