Wood burner and stove showroom

Homeowners upgrading or fitting a stove, plus builders and interior designers recommending products for renovations.

Margin on stoves and accessories, plus fees or commission on installation, chimney lining and servicing packages. Fuel and accessories bring repeat sales.

• Product knowledge and honest advice
• Customer service and sales
• Managing stock and suppliers
• Building links with local fitters and builders

• Installation should be done by competent, registered fitters, so check which schemes apply (such as HETAS) and how Building Regulations are handled
• Check smoke control area rules and Defra-approved or Ecodesign-ready stove requirements for the areas you sell into
• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus cover for stock and premises
• Business rates, lease terms and the cost of display stock tying up cash
• Check what you promise about installation, as you may be responsible if a subcontracted fitter does poor work

Startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the premises, how many display stoves you stock and your fit-out. These are estimates, and display stock can tie up cash, so plan your opening range carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically around £4,000 to £20,000, depending on location, the range you stock, and how well you build links with local fitters, builders and designers. That is revenue, not profit, so allow for stock, rent and rates.

Check which installer schemes apply, such as HETAS, and how Building Regulations are handled. Check smoke control area and Defra-approved or Ecodesign-ready requirements, plus insurance, business rates and lease terms. Be clear what you promise if a subcontracted fitter does poor work.