Open a neighborhood dried seafood shop

Local home cooks, families cooking cuisines that use dried seafood, and nearby restaurants, takeouts and caterers buying in bulk.

Retail markup on products sold by weight or pack, plus regular wholesale orders from local restaurants.

• Knowledge of dried seafood and cooking uses
• Customer service and talking with regular customers
• Buying, pricing and stock control

• Check with your county health department about a retail food permit and any rules for selling seafood, including loose or weighed products
• Check FDA labeling and allergen rules if you repackage products
• Register for sales tax with your state and check your city for a business license
• Lease terms, rent and build-out costs can be the biggest risk, so check zoning and lease terms first
• Get general liability and property insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire
• Stock needs dry, clean, pest-free storage, and strong smells may matter to neighbors and your landlord

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $90,000, depending on your location, lease, build-out and opening stock. Lease terms, rent and build-out costs can be the biggest risk, so check zoning and lease terms first.

Monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your location, product range and how many restaurants and regulars you win. Rent, stock and wages come out of that revenue.

Check with your county health department about a retail food permit and rules for selling seafood, including loose or weighed products. Check FDA labeling and allergen rules if you repackage. Also check state sales tax registration, a city business license, and zoning.