Uniform and workwear shop
Open a small local shop where schools, clinics and teams can try on and order uniforms and branded clothing.
- $15k-60k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in the US, not guarantees.
What it is
A small retail space stocking scrubs, work shirts, school uniforms and team wear, with fitting help and, if you add it, logo embroidery or printing from a partner.
Your first three steps
- Check which schools, hospitals and employers near you need uniforms and who supplies them now
- Request wholesale accounts and price lists from a few uniform suppliers and compare minimum orders
- Look at small retail leases in your area and check zoning with your city or county
Who pays
Local parents, healthcare staff, restaurants, trades businesses, youth sports clubs and schools.
How it makes money
Retail markup on stocked items, bulk orders for employers and clubs, and fees for embroidery, printing and alterations.
Skills that help
- Retail and stock management
- Selling to businesses and schools
- Sizing and fitting
- Budgeting and inventory tracking
Watch out for
- Lease terms, deposits and the cost of stock tied up before the busy back-to-school season
- Sales tax registration and local business license, check with your state and city
- General liability and property insurance, plus workers' compensation if you hire staff
- Slow seasons and unsold sizes, order conservatively at first
🔒 Full research report for US
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to open a uniform shop?
Startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your lease, deposit and how much stock you carry. These are estimates, so plan for stock tied up before the busy back-to-school season.
How much can a uniform and workwear shop make?
Monthly revenue is typically around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on location and how many schools, clinics and teams you serve. Expect slow seasons and unsold sizes, so order conservatively at first.
What licenses and insurance should I check for a uniform shop?
Check your lease terms and deposits, sales tax registration, and your local business license with your state and city. Also check general liability and property insurance, plus workers' compensation if you hire staff.
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