Table tennis pop-up shop at clubs and tournaments

Tournament players, club members and parents of junior players who want to see and handle gear before buying.

Margin on gear sold at the event, plus fees for custom paddle builds and repairs. Many sellers also take orders to ship afterward.

• Deep knowledge of paddles and rubbers
• Friendly, advice-led selling
• Organizing stock and travel

• Check whether events or venues require a temporary vendor permit or business license in that city or county
• Register for sales tax with your state and check how to collect tax at events in other states
• General liability insurance, since venues often ask for proof of coverage
• Stock is tied up in inventory, so start with fast-selling items rather than buying every brand
• Gear glue and adhesives can have rules about use indoors, so check venue policies and ventilation

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on the stock of paddles, rubbers, balls, shoes and accessories you buy, plus display gear and travel. Start with fast-selling items rather than every brand.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many events you attend, what you stock and your prices. Inventory ties up cash, so buy carefully.

Check whether events or venues require a temporary vendor permit or business license in that city or county. Also check state sales tax registration and collecting tax at events in other states, liability insurance proof, and venue policies on glue use.