Display Space in a Shared Showroom

Shoppers and trade buyers who visit the shared space, plus clients you invite to see your range in person.

A margin on each sale, minus the monthly space fee and any commission the host charges. Some hosts let you take orders and fulfil them from suppliers.

• Sales and customer service
• Merchandising and display
• Inventory tracking
• Networking with designers and trade buyers

• Contract terms: check minimum term, commission, who handles payments and what happens to unsold stock
• Sales tax: confirm who collects and reports it and whether you need your own seller's permit
• Insurance for your stock and general liability, ask whether the host's policy covers you
• Check your city or county for any business license you still need
• Foot traffic is not guaranteed, track visits and sales before committing long term

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the size of your bay or booth, your displays and how much stock you carry. These are estimates, so compare several spaces and ask what fees apply before you sign.

Monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your products, your prices and the foot traffic the space attracts. These are estimates, not guarantees, and foot traffic is not assured, so track visits and sales.

Check the contract terms, including minimum term, commission, who handles payments and what happens to unsold stock. Also confirm who collects sales tax, whether the host's insurance covers you, and whether you still need a city or county business license.