Neighborhood Candy and Chocolate Shop

Families, kids and teens, gift buyers, tourists, and local businesses buying treats for clients or staff.

Retail markup on packaged and bulk candy sold by weight or item, plus higher-margin gift boxes, party favors and holiday items.

• Customer service
• Buying and stock control
• Merchandising and display
• Basic bookkeeping

• Check with your local health department on whether selling packaged or bulk unwrapped candy needs a food retail permit
• Sales tax registration with your state, since candy is taxed differently depending on the state
• General liability insurance and product liability cover, especially for allergens
• Seasonal sales swings (Halloween, Valentine's Day, Easter, Christmas) that affect cash flow
• Lease terms, deposits and build-out costs before signing

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your location, lease terms, build-out and opening stock. Review lease terms, deposits and build-out costs before signing anything.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on your location and range. Sales swing with seasons such as Halloween, Valentine's Day, Easter and Christmas, so plan for cash flow. This is revenue, not profit.

Check with your local health department on whether selling packaged or bulk unwrapped candy needs a food retail permit. Also check state sales tax registration, since candy is taxed differently by state, plus general and product liability insurance.