Start a local vape shop on your high street

Adult local customers, mostly regulars who come back for e-liquid, coils and replacement kit.

Margin on each sale of devices, e-liquids and accessories. Repeat purchases from regulars matter most, so location and good service are key.

• Friendly, knowledgeable customer service
• Stock control and ordering
• Firm but polite when checking age

• Selling to under-18s is illegal, so set up a clear age-check routine and train anyone who works for you
• Check that every product you stock meets current UK rules on nicotine strength, bottle and tank size, labelling and notification
• Rules are changing, including limits on disposable vapes and possible new retail registration or licensing, so check the latest position for your nation
• Check the limits on advertising and shop-window displays with trading standards
• Check lease terms and planning use class, plus public liability and shop contents insurance

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £15,000 to £45,000, depending on the premises, fit-out and how much stock you buy. Lease terms, insurance and your product range will all affect where you land within that range.

Selling to under-18s is illegal, so plan an age-check routine and train staff. Also check that your products meet UK rules on nicotine strength, bottle and tank size, labelling and notification, and confirm the latest position on disposable vapes and any retail registration for your nation.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £8,000 to £30,000, depending on location, range and how many regulars you build. This is revenue, not profit, so rent, stock and other costs come out of it. Expect to work at least around 35 hours a week.