Typewriter stall at markets and fairs

Browsing shoppers, writers, collectors, gift buyers and people with a family typewriter that needs a service.

Sales of restored machines, ribbons and accessories, plus repair and servicing fees collected from customers at the stall.

• Basic typewriter repair
• Friendly selling and chatting to customers
• Display and pricing
• Packing and carrying heavy kit

• Public liability insurance, which many market organisers ask for
• Check whether the market or council needs a street trading licence or permit for your pitch
• Consumer rights rules apply to sales to the public, so be clear about condition and returns
• Typewriters are heavy, so plan transport and lifting to avoid injury
• Takings depend on footfall and weather, so try a few different markets before committing to pitch fees

Startup costs are typically around £800 to £4,000, depending on your stock, display and transport. These are estimates, so try a few different markets before committing to regular pitch fees.

Monthly revenue is typically around £400 to £2,000, depending on the markets you attend and what you sell. These are estimates, and takings depend on footfall and weather.

Check whether the market or council requires a street trading licence or permit for your pitch. Also check public liability insurance, which many organisers ask for, and consumer rights rules on condition and returns.