Local tack shop near horse country

Local riders, boarders, trainers, riding schools and pony club families.

Retail margin on new goods, plus consignment commission on used tack, and fees for repairs and fitting services.

• Deep knowledge of horse gear and fit
• Retail buying and stock control
• Customer service
• Basic bookkeeping

• Sales tax permit with your state, plus a city or county business license and zoning checks
• General liability and property insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire
• Tied-up cash in stock, with slow sellers like saddles and seasonal swings in sales
• Lease terms and rent, which can be a major fixed cost
• Consignment: keep clear written agreements about ownership and payouts

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your stock levels, shop size and lease terms. Cash can be tied up in slow sellers like saddles, so plan your opening stock carefully.

Monthly revenue is an estimate, typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on your location, range and services like saddle fitting or consignment. Sales can swing with the seasons, and rent is often a major fixed cost.

Check for a sales tax permit with your state, plus a city or county business license and zoning. Also check general liability and property insurance, workers' compensation once you hire, and keep clear written agreements for consignment items.