Kite shop in a beach or tourist area

Tourists, local families, kite hobbyists and gift shoppers.

Retail markup on kites and accessories, plus add-ons like repairs, spare line and event or lesson fees.

• Retail and stock management
• Friendly customer service
• Knowledge of kites and wind conditions
• Basic bookkeeping

• Check your city or county for business license, zoning and signage rules
• Register for sales tax with your state, and check how it applies to your goods
• Get general liability and property insurance, and check the lease terms before signing
• Strongly seasonal sales in many areas, so plan cash flow for slow months
• Weather and tourist numbers can swing sales a lot

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your location, the lease terms, your fit-out and how much stock you buy. Check the lease terms carefully before signing, and plan your cash flow for slow months.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on your location, the season and the weather. Sales are strongly seasonal in many areas and can swing with tourist numbers. The estimate assumes about 35 hours a week or more.

Check your city or county for business license, zoning and signage rules. Register for sales tax with your state and check how it applies to your goods. Also look at general liability and property insurance, and read your lease terms.