Neighborhood vitamin and supplement store

Health-conscious locals, gym-goers, older adults, new parents and people following a diet or wellness plan.

You buy from distributors or brands at wholesale and sell at retail prices. Private-label products, loyalty programs and bundles can improve margins.

• Customer service and friendly advice
• Inventory and ordering
• Basic retail bookkeeping

• FDA and FTC rules on labeling and health claims. Don't say a product treats or cures a disease, and check the current guidance
• Buy only from reputable suppliers and keep records of lot numbers in case of recalls
• Check your state's rules on selling certain products, such as weight-loss or muscle-building supplements, to minors
• General liability and product liability insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire
• Expired stock and tight margins, so track inventory closely

Startup costs are typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on your location, shop size and how much stock you buy. Treat this as an estimate and budget carefully for inventory, since expired stock and tight margins can hurt.

Check FDA and FTC rules on labeling and health claims, and don't say a product treats or cures a disease. Also check your state's rules on selling certain products to minors, buy from reputable suppliers and keep lot number records.

Monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on location, product range and customer base. This is revenue, not profit. Expect to work at least 40 hours a week and track inventory closely.