Independent video game shop

Local gamers, parents, students, collectors and people trading in games they no longer play.

Used games and trade-ins usually carry better margins than new releases. Accessories, repairs and an online shop alongside the premises can add further income.

• Deep knowledge of games and consoles
• Pricing used stock fairly
• Customer service and community building
• Basic stock control and bookkeeping

• Lease terms, deposits, business rates and shop fit-out costs, which can be significant
• Public liability insurance, plus stock and contents cover, and employer's liability insurance if you hire
• Check the rules on selling 18-rated games, including age checks
• Counterfeit goods and buying stolen items, so check ID and keep trade-in records
• Rules on selling and recycling electrical items are worth checking with your local council or Trading Standards
• Slow early months and the cost of holding stock

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the lease and deposit, shop fit-out and how much stock you buy. Early months can be slow, so it helps to plan for holding stock.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £6,000 to £25,000, depending on location, trade-in volume and the mix of new and used stock. This is revenue before rent, stock, wages and other costs.

Check lease terms, business rates and the rules on selling 18-rated games, including age checks. Also check public liability, stock and contents insurance, employer's liability if you hire, electrical item rules with Trading Standards, and keep ID and trade-in records.