Poster and print shop with a storefront

Students, renters, interior decorators, offices and gift shoppers who want to see and pick up wall art in person.

Retail margin on posters and prints, plus higher-value add-ons like framing, mounting and custom orders for decorators and businesses.

• Retail and customer service
• Buying and stock control
• Basic framing or willingness to learn
• Local marketing

• Commercial lease terms, deposits and how long you are committed
• Check state sales tax registration and any local business license or zoning requirements
• General liability and property insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire
• Slow seasons outside the school year, so plan your cash flow
• Licensed movie or music posters usually come from authorized distributors, so avoid unlicensed copies

Estimates put startup costs typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your lease and deposit, stock, fixtures and any framing equipment. Check commercial lease terms and how long you are committed before you sign.

Check state sales tax registration and any local business license or zoning requirements. Also check general liability and property insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire. Licensed movie or music posters usually come from authorized distributors, so avoid unlicensed copies.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on location, stock and whether you add framing. Estimates suggest at least around 35 hours a week. Slow seasons outside the school year can affect cash flow.