62 Best Retail Business Ideas To Start In 2023 [Profitable]
Are you looking for the best retail business to start?
There are plenty of retail store ideas that you can start on a budget and build a successful line of business.
We put together a list of the 50 most profitable retail business ideas you can start today.
Here they are:
1. Start a stationery business
A stationery business sells stationery products such as paper goods, notebooks, greeting cards, and envelopes.
The best part about starting a stationery business is that it's relatively easy and inexpensive to get started.
Since there are so many different types of products available in this industry, there are endless opportunities for creativity, customization, and expansion.
You could even start out small by selling your products on Etsy or eBay before opening up an actual storefront.
Hi, I’m Jess. I’m 34 years old from Tasmania, Australia. I started Chasing Planner Peace back in 2015 when I was pregnant with my third child. Originally we were based on Etsy and only sold planner inserts, however, we’ve now turned into a one-stop planner shop that caters to seasoned “planner addicts” who want to add to their planners, and also planner newbies who love the fact our shop is the only store in Australia you can custom build your own ring planner style planner.
Over the past few years, we’ve really expanded our range to not only offer planners and inserts, but also planner dashboards (beautiful cover pages), dividers, notepads, stationery items and more. We also recently started our subscription box service where every two months customers can receive a “Planner Peace Box” which is full of planner and self-care goodies. We have so many more plans for new products in 2020.
2. Start an eye masks store
The eye mask is a simple accessory that blocks out light and improves sleep. The global mask market is expected to reach USD 18.6 Million in the next few years.
If you love to help people sleep better, then starting an eye masks business might be the perfect business opportunity for you.
An eye masks business is a relatively low barrier to entry business that doesn't require much of an up-front investment. You can start by making your own eye masks or buying them from wholesalers in bulk, then sell them to customers through social media platforms such as Facebook or Instagram.
I am the CEO & co-founder of Manta Sleep mask, the only mask designed, constructed, and optimized for deepest-possible sleep in any environment. Manta Sleep masks provide 100% blackout for maximized sleep quality — so users feel 100%, all the time. Just a pinprick of light can disrupt REM and deep sleep, leading to post-sleep tiredness. That’s why Manta perfectly covers and conforms to the eyes to block 100% of light, even in broad daylight — so users always get deep, uninterrupted sleep.
We are anti-hustle culture. Working long hours and “hustling” is absolutely idiotic because nobody can make great decisions working 12 hours a day. At that point, you're just a walking zombie working on low-value tasks and pretending like you are actually doing something important. You are pretending like you are actually making it work and “succeeding”, when in fact, you're just using mindless work as an excuse to make yourself feel better. In order to live a good life, a happy life, there are several pillars in our lives that we need to make sure to take care of: Health, Wealth, Family, and Friends. When these go out of sync, life sucks. You basically have to keep it balanced to live a good life.
3. Start an auto parts shop
If you want to start a retail business in the automobile industry, consider an auto parts business.
The auto parts business is one of the most successful businesses in the world. There are many Auto Parts Businesses in the United States, Canada, and the UK, where most are part-time.
Listed are the steps on how to start an auto parts shop business.
- Pick a location
- Do your market research
- Secure all permits and licenses
- Open a bank account for business transactions
Hey everyone! My name is Mitchel Matthews and I am a 22-year-old entrepreneur. I am the owner/founder of Adrenaline Offroad which is an eCommerce store for aftermarket vehicle accessories! We mainly focus our expertise in the realm of automotive LED lighting accessories. Our products are built for a person who will endure hardcore offroading situations with their vehicle all the way to people who attend multiple shows per month in their show trucks! Some of our most popular products being our RGB+W underglow/rock light & LED wheel ring lights. In just over a year of quitting my job to pursue my passion for truck mods full time, I am so beyond proud & excited to be making 5x the amount of money that I used to make per month!
Pictured above is our most popular bundle kit called “The UFO GLOW Bundle Kit”
4. Start a personalized gift business
Personalized gifts are great for celebrating important dates, joyous occasions, and memorable moments. The personalized gifts include photo frames, key chains, to group gifts.
A personalized gifts business is a low-capital idea since you do not need a physical storefront or office space to start the business. Besides, you can put as much time into the business as possible, which means you can run the business as a side hustle.
Check out our guide on how to start a personalized gift business
Hello Stater Story readers! My name is Dmitriy Peregudov, I am a founder of GiftBasketsOverseas.com, a company offering global gift delivery in 200+ countries Worldwide.
Our company’s purpose is to help people build personal and business relationships Worldwide, one gift at a time and since the launch, we had a pleasure to connect more than 2 million people Internationally in more than 200 countries.
5. Start a pet store
Pet stores are retail businesses that sell animals and pet supplies. They are a leading industry category with sales of approximately $4.5B U.S dollars and positive sales growth of 2.7%.
You can set up a pet store in many places, like supermarkets, malls, or pet supply stores.
The first thing to do is to find a location for your store. A good place would be an area with many residential buildings, schools, and colleges as this will give you access to many customers. It would help if you also looked for a location near public transport as it will make it easier for people to come and visit your store.
I am Mike Leon, mechanical engineer, an avid bike rider, service dog trainer and inventor of the 1-Running-Dog Bike Tow LeashⓇ for safe bike, trike, scooter, and wheelchair dog-rides.
I am the owner of LEON Engineering, Inc. We design, build and sell the 1-Running-Dog Bike Tow Leash® to dog owners, walkers, trainers, military and law enforcement, search and rescue and those with special needs. Having sold less than 200 BTLs prior, My on-the-side hobby turned into a true business in 2009 with the launch of our first website. We went from shipping hundreds/year to thousands/year. Now, our business allows me to work comfortably from home, making 6 figures, while caring for my wife and enriching the lives of tens of thousands of dogs and their humans.
6. Start a perfume business
A fragrance or perfume business creates and sells products made from various ingredients, such as oils and extracts, which are mixed together to produce a pleasant smell.
And perfumes are no small business: the industry is expected to reach over $40B in the next few years.
There are a few ways to get started with creating your own perfume. You can start by choosing which ingredients you would like to use and then find recipes that will work for those ingredients. Or, you could start with a fragrance that you already love and try to recreate it as closely as possible with natural ingredients.
Hi, my name is Rafael Hernandez and I am the founder of Alfred Lane. I have a line of personal and home fragrances handcrafted in small batches out of our Miami studio. I began selling solid colognes initially as an alternative to spray colognes and released three fragrances.
The business generates $19k a month in revenue. In 2020, the company had its best year ever. I opened a production studio where we make everything and hired a studio assistant all within the last 5 months. It’s been more than 8 years since I started and the journey has been a wild one.
7. Start an electronics store
An electronics store sells any electronics from smartphones to televisions, laptops, refrigerators and other home appliances. With the technological advancements in the past decade, the electronics sector is expected to grow by 5.6 percent over the next five years.
To start an electronics store, research and find the right location for your store, then register your company at the state level to get the tax ID number.
Then, research your competition, which includes online stores and the local electronics store in your area. You should examine what they sell and focus on the products you can provide at a better price than the competition.
Hello, my name is Kyle Capel and I am the founder of Hand Held Legend, a DIY upgrade shop for vintage handheld consoles. If you are as old as I am, you’ll remember the day you opened up your first Nintendo console and impatiently waited for mom or dad to figure out how to hook it up. After the crisp sound of a cartridge inserting into its plastic slot, you were ready to be taken into another world. Whether it be a 90’s Christmas morning or a special birthday, each of us can be taken back to parts of our youth when hearing and playing the games we grew up on. There is nothing that can replace the nostalgia old gaming consoles and the controllers that come with them.
Most of our customers are males between the ages of 13 and 45. Nearly 40% of our sales are international. Revenue averages about $27,000/month and is growing. The first quarter of 2020 posted a 30% increase in revenue over the same period in 2019.
8. Start a food truck
Food trucks are a highly profitable business that offers customers a variety of meal options out of a mobile truck. This basically operates inside a large vehicle equipped with kitchen and food products. Starting a food truck is a dream for many people, but it's more challenging than it looks. To make it work, you need the ideal location and menu.
To start a food truck business in a particular city, it is mandatory to check what kind of food trucks are already operating, identify a gap, and bring in some new experiences. Then, with the right plan and the right approach, you can be on your way to starting your own food truck empire.
I started my career at the world-famous Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles Apprenticing under Certified Master Chef Raimund Hofmeister.
Food Fleet’s growth Year after year has been at an at over 30 %. From 2017-2018 we had an unprecedented 160% growth spurt. With a team of 6, including my partner and I, we managed over 20 million in sales for our clients. As an example. We took over a convention center 3 years ago managing their food truck business. For their largest event of the year, we were up 53% over the previous year. I honestly would have to equate some of that success to the under-reporting of sales by the previous operator. But the following year we were up 19% from that figure and again close to that this year. That is due in large part to our understanding of transaction times, menu mix, the equipment in each truck or pop up and other factors.
9. Start a cycling gear store
The global cycling gear and wearables market is growing, as more people are opting for cycling as a form of leisure.
My name is Mukund Umesh Thakkar, I run the company with the brand name Mastermind Bicycle Studio. We are a chain of Retail Stores, selling the sport of Cycling through the most high-end and premium brands in the world of cycling and triathlon. We sell a wide range of products from Bicycles, Helmets, Shoes, Wheels, Components, Apparel, etc.
I am a Chemical Engineer and an MBA in Finance, selling and spreading this wonderful sport of cycling in India. I started Mastermind when I was 26 years old. Our Sales Revenue has consistently grown at a rate of around 55% to 65% Year On Year.
10. Start a furniture business
The furniture industry involves designing, manufacturing, and selling various types of furniture for household and commercial purposes. With the increase in flexible workspaces and the real estate industry’s growth, the furniture business’s demand is boosted.
The furniture business is easy to start and does not require high investments. However, it is first essential to know your niche, for example, office, domestic, home furniture, and luxury items.
The furniture business needs a lot of preparation and prior knowledge. Taking business classes, learning about your local market, and making a solid business plan is advisable. In general, if your products are unique and one of a kind, consumers will be willing to pay a higher, including the shipping cost.
My name is Sasha Weekes and I’m the 25 years old owner of Timber Grove Studios. Our home-based woodshop is nestled in the hills of PEI’s countryside, and we specialize in decorative shelving and home decor with a focus on minimalist design and simplicity. Each piece is made to order with 20+ color options, meaning it will be the perfect fit for each customer's space. We ship Canada and U.S. wide.
Moving twice in two years has definitely caused organizational, financial and opportunity hiccups, but the business has grown steadily regardless so we’re very excited about where 2020 will take us. We’ve learned what to focus on during which months, as revenue can range anywhere from $2000 during slow months to $10,000 during high months. Net profit has run anywhere between 20-50% throughout the life of the business and varies month to month. It’s closer to 20% right now as we’ve been spending all we can on new tools and materials for our new larger products and our Christmas stock.
11. Start a grocery store
A grocery store sells a wide variety of food products, fresh or packaged, and other household & personal care items. The grocery store industry is the largest retail channel that makes $682 billion in the United States.
To start a basic grocery store, you can expect to spend a minimum of $50,000. Ideally, the bigger expense would be the rent, equipment, labor cost, cash registers/POS systems, and software. Some of these are recurring monthly fees. However, the location, size of the store, competitors, and local customers will significantly impact the business. A new grocer should sell more items for a lower price to make a more significant profit.
A new grocer can also save costs by buying the items from local distributors. The distributor is the middleman between the manufacturer and the grocery store selling it. Once the store cost and location are decided, the next step is to obtain a seller license. In most states, a grocer's license is required to run a grocery store.
Thus an average grocery store has a profit margin of 3% to 5%. The profit rates depend on the store's location, size, and popularity. On average, a small to medium grocery store can make a profit of up to $300,000 annually if all the profit factors are considered.
Another way to make your business more profitable is to diversify your store and add amenities like a coffee shop or stocking up the front of the store with magazines, batteries, etc., as these items can cross a margin of up to 70%. As a rule of thumb, offering lower prices on higher purchases will ultimately win more customers and increase profitability.
12. Start a subscription box business
A subscription box business is a type of business where customers subscribe to receive a niche set of products on a monthly basis. Subscription boxes are in high demand today as customers enjoy receiving a variety of products from various brands.
Some of the benefits of starting a subscription box business are:
- The revenue is predictable as it is a recurring business
- Adds more value to customer service as this creates a unique shopping experience
- Customers can access exclusive products and also customize them based on their interest
- Profit margin can range from 40%-60%
You can start a subscription box business by understanding the real market needs. Because of its highly competitive nature, finding your niche and providing quality products based on your customer's interests is important. Additionally, it is important to decide what items should go in your box. The box's quantity, size, and design are crucial to grabbing the customer's attention. Apart from the basics, you should also make sure that the items are bright and colorful.
Lastly, building a good relationship with the fulfillment companies will be profitable as this business is a routine task. For example, if you have 100 subscribers, you will need a service to pick up and deliver your products. In addition to this, marketing your service can be an advantage. To promote the service, you can build your website and create special offers to attract and retain customers.
I’m Lindsay Scholz, and I’m the founder of Vowed Box Co. – a line of curated, quirky gift boxes with non-traditional brides in mind.
Since the brand is still in its infancy and we’re still working through wholesale costs, my monthly income is roughly $600. For being a side business, I look at any profit as a win, but of course, the goal is to see this grow in 2019!
13. Start an ecommerce store
An eCommerce business is a company that sells products or services online. Ecommerce businesses have many advantages over brick-and-mortar businesses, including lower overhead costs, increased flexibility and reach, and the ability to reach a wider audience.
eCommerce is booming right now because of the convenience and efficiency it offers consumers. Consumers can buy products from their favorite brands on a platform that makes the whole process easier than ever. They don't have to leave their homes or go out in public, they can just sit down at their computer, tablet or smartphone and browse through all of the options available to them.
To start an ecommerce business, you'll need to set up a website where customers can browse your inventory and purchase items, as well as payment processing software that allows you to accept credit card payments. You'll also need to choose a shopping cart software and manage inventory tracking software.
Hello! My name is D’Shawn Russell and I am the founder and CEO of Southern Elegance Candle Company. I started the company 4 years ago as a side hustle to make some extra money on the weekends and to get me out of the house. But it quickly grew to much more than I expected.
You can check out our brand story video here: Southern Elegance: Candles Crafted In The South
14. Start a cosmetic store
The cosmetic industry is growing rapidly. Starting a cosmetic shop can be highly profitable, but only if you stock trendy, skin-friendly products.
If you are passionate about the beauty industry, consider starting a cosmetics brick-and-mortar shop.
Cosmetic shops sell products ranging from anti-aging, aromatherapy, lotions, beauty spa, cosmetic store, and even make-up.
To start a cosmetic store, research the market and source products from well-known brands in the beauty industry.
My name is Alexis Evans aka Da Mademoiselle. I am a native of South Florida who has started a cosmetic and skincare company named FBI Cosmetics d/b/a Flawlessly Beautiful Individual in the middle of a pandemic.
I am also the owner of Boss Talk Expo an annual expo and conference company. I branched out into the beauty industry, I started FBI Cosmetics off with just lipsticks and have progressed into the skincare business in December. I have grossed over $62,000 in sales. People ask where the name comes from and I tell people “it’s a crime to be so damn beautiful.”
15. Start a sewing and alteration business
Do you have sewing skills and looking for an entrepreneurship opportunity? You can start your sewing and alteration business.
A sewing and alteration business offers customers clothing repair, custom tailoring, button replacement, and other alterations. You can start a sewing and alteration business at home or set up a retail location.
To start a sewing and alteration business, you will need a commercial-grade sewing machine and a marketing strategy, so target customers learn about your business.
We are Saara and Stephanie - we’ve been friends for 8 years and have both launched our own socially oriented businesses. We recently started ALTRD - a clothing alteration service.
16. Start an antique business
Owning an antique and vintage business can be fulfilling and profitable for those targeting the elite.
Antique businesses focus on procuring items at a low price and restoring them, then selling them at a profit. The items can include old toys, cars, bikes, household items, crafts, vintage jewelry, etc.
Opening an antique item store may seem somewhat daunting. However, once you have researched the items available and acquired the necessary skills and expertise, you will be ready to kick off.
For some, a storefront with enough storage for antique items might fit the bill. For others, an online store will work pretty well. Regardless of your approach, the secret is applying your entrepreneurship strategies to an overall framework for success.
In 2013 I decided to start a company where I would restore antiques and antique toys. After 25 years of working in education and information technologies, I decided to cash out my 401K savings to start Hoosierboy Restorations. I began in my mother's garage and quickly began receiving projects to restore. I quickly outgrew the small 2 car garage and expanded my operations to my present 2200 sq.ft. facility.
7 years later, we have restored hundreds of projects. Everything from 100-year-old toys, to historical furniture, to a T-33 Airforce jet ejection seat.
17. Start a bakery
Everyone loves baked goods, be it sweet items like cakes, muffins, and cookies or savory baked food like pizzas, buns, bread, and puff pastry. Baking takes a lot of effort and patience, which is why many people buy baked items from stores or restaurants instead of baking them at home.
Starting a bakery can be a rewarding business opportunity if you have a passion for baking. If you plan to start a bakery, consider that happy customers often become repeat customers. Therefore, always focus on quality and work on customer satisfaction.
To start a bakery , pick an ideal format. Some options include:
- Counter-style bakery
- A hybrid bakery with a cafe,
- Food truck with a bakery
- Home bakery.
Write a suitable business plan and choose the correct location.
Bonjour! My name is Anthony Rosemond. I'm a Parisian chef & founder of Pastreez, an online French bakery.
We’ve sold over 1 million macarons to this date, with only a team of two.
18. Start a kids store
The kid's store business is a large market attracting millions of annual global sales and steady growth. If you plan to start a kids store business, you can specialize in clothing, toys, and accessories or sell all of these in one store.
Research the local market to discover what is appealing, and find the best suppliers. Define a business model and apply for applicable licensing. For kids apparel stores, a physical storefront acts as an anchor and helps build a local customer base. An online store will help you reach a wider market as you supply to those outside your locality.
19. Start a coffee cart
A coffee cart is a small outdoor structure that serves coffee and other beverages at retail prices. A coffee cart business is a low startup cost business.
All you need to set up a coffee cart business is a professional coffee machine and coffee cups.
To maximize your profits all year round, choose a strategic location and ensure you are readily available to serve your customers whenever they need coffee.
My name is Beth Baxter and I co-founded Camper Cafe, a mobile coffee van business. The idea for our business started with my partner’s love for vintage VW campervans. He had a rusty old shell of a T25 Campervan given to him, that he wanted to convert into a trailer for his motorbikes.
Although we never really thought about this ever becoming more than just a lifestyle business, we found we were turning so much work away from that in 2019 when the company was turning over around £150k from working only 70 days of the year, we decided that I should go full-time to see the potential.
20. Start a retail pharmacy
Starting your retail pharmacy can be a rewarding venture that offers you independence and the opportunity to define your work schedule. If you are considering starting a pharmacy, understand the licensing requirements and comply with the National Council For Prescription Drug Program.
Then, define the business model. You may opt to start an online retail pharmacy or a brick & mortar establishment. For a brick-and-mortar establishment, rent a physical location and take care of staffing costs and inventory keeping.
My name is Misty Dupree and I own Medical Bag Tags, LLC. I create customizable medical and allergy awareness bag tags for your purses, backpacks, lunch boxes, and more! I desire to help bridge the gap between the medical community and everyday folks by raising awareness of medical and allergy conditions. My Bag Tags can help in emergencies where someone may not be able to speak for themselves.
During the darkest of dark days, I managed to keep my business afloat, getting small orders here and there. I did manage to pull myself out of the muck and get my LLC and Registered Trademark too. I am now on the other side of the years of pain and am looking forward to putting more time into my business and seeing it grow.
21. Start a restaurant
If you love cooking and are passionate about entrepreneurship, starting a restaurant can be a fun and lucrative business.
To get started, choose a great location, and hire an excellent support team. You will need a chef to inspect the food and line cooks, waiters, and waitresses to serve the customers. No matter the restaurant type, you need great culinary and business skills to make your dream come true.
If you plan to open a restaurant , gain insight from consumer preferences and focus on serving modern consumers what they need.
Hi, I’m Andrei Calinescu and I am the Founder and CEO of One Life Meals.
22. Start a flower shop
Do you enjoy designing floral arrangements for special events like weddings or holidays? If so, owning a flower shop can be exciting and rewarding.
However, setting up the business for success can be overwhelming.
As a florist, your role is to touch people’s emotions with the flowers. The career requires creativity and design skills to appeal to your target customers. You need to love and enjoy working with flowers and have some patience.
My name is Carlos Franco, and I am the owner and creative director at Green Fresh Florals + Plants, San Diego's premier modern flower and plant shop located in Hillcrest.
I’ve been connected to Mother Earth my entire life and became a professional florist in my early 20’s. I opened Green in its current location in July 2009. Before that, I had a shop located in the East Village neighborhood in downtown San Diego.
23. Start a fashion accessories business
If you love fashion and clothing design, you may want to start a fashion accessories business. As a fashion accessories consultant, you help clients develop and adapt personal and professional styles.
Fashion accessories are decorative items that supplement one’s outfit. They include jewelry, gloves, belts, scarves, watches, sunglasses, bow ties, leggings, suspenders, and tights. To work as a professional stylist, collaborate with clients to understand their needs, and tailor styles and aesthetics to each individual’s preferences.
I'm Jen, and I own FOXLY Handmade, a handmade bag company based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I work with artists to develop illustrations that I then turn into useful, practical pouches. Think of them as little pieces of portable, functional art!
Now, I've transitioned my business almost entirely online, and my website sales have been growing month over month. I anticipate that I will triple last year's sales by the end of this year, even without the in-person events I used to rely on.
24. Start a kitchenware and home essentials shop
Kitchenware and home essentials supplies remain a traditional retail business globally. Even in this era of the internet, people prefer purchasing kitchenware and home essentials from brick and mortar stores.
Therefore, if you plan to start a kitchen supplies business, you may consider opening a physical store.
Do you want to start a kitchenware and home essentials store? You can purchase a struggling store or start from scratch. Remember, location is a significant factor in the approach, so focus on the high-traffic areas like near residential locations.
I and my husband Mr. Chirag Visaria are the founder and director of the brand PDD Falcon. I am an IT professional, turned into a woman entrepreneur leading the family legacy and aspiring to manifest my expertise in the 35-year-old family business.
The brand began with a small t.o. of 10 l in the first year. But today we stand at a forecast of 12 cr and above for f.y. 2022-23 with the company valued at 25Cr. It’s purely due to the support of our channel partners. Before the closing of this financial year, we shall expand our offline network to 60 distributors reaching out to more than 8000 dealers. More sales are expected to come from export avenues.
25. Start a bags store
Linjer, created by entrepreneurs Jennifer Chong and Roman Khan, provides sustainably crafted jewelry, luggage, and watches without the luxury markup.
In 2014, the cofounders were experimenting with making a soft briefcase out of high-quality leather, mainly because they couldn't find anything similar on the market.
To date, they have amassed $10 million in revenue in just three years of business.
Their plans for the future include:
- Influencer marketing
- Expanding to wholesale partners
- Creating pop-ups
- Entering new product markets & areas
Read the full story on defolio.co ➜
26. Start an organic food store
Organic food stores stock fresh or processed food produced through organic farming methods. Healthy food restaurants and health-conscious individuals are some target customers regarding healthy organic food.
If you plan to start an organic food store, focus on providing the customers freshest, organically grown produce. Starting an organic food store is a great way to make money while helping the environment. Organic food stores are becoming increasingly popular, especially with people who want to eat healthily but don't have time to cook. If you're looking for a business idea that will allow you to make money and help people simultaneously, starting an organic food store could be the perfect fit for you!
Organic food stores are so popular because they offer fresh produce that has not been treated with chemicals or pesticides, which means they're much safer than the produce found at your local grocery store.
Hi all! My name is Andrea and I’m the founder of Golden Root. I manufacture and sell a caffeine-free Turmeric Latte Mix in Denver, CO.
Currently, I sell Golden Root online from my e-commerce site and to over 50 coffee shops nationwide. After a very eventful and strong finish to 2018, Golden Root is making an average of $4k/mo.
27. Start an aquarium house business
The aquarium business stocks a variety of home aquariums and supplies, along with a varied stock of freshwater and saltwater fish. Also, an aquarium business offers system startup and maintenance.
Starting an aquarium is a very profitable retail business. Luckily, starting an aquarium business in metropolitan cities is very easy. To start an aquarium business, write a plan and find an ideal commercial space for the company.
Before launching the ornamental fish business, you should know how big the market is, conduct a competition analysis to determine who you are against, and craft a competitive strategy.
Hi! My name is Larry McGee, and I own a company called Aquatic Designs, Inc. I design, sell, install, and maintain fish aquariums in restaurants, hospitals, medical offices, and any other business imaginable. I service aquariums in the central Arkansas area and travel the state doing aquarium system repair at big box pet stores.
Triple 200 Gallon Aquariums in a Restaurant/See behind the wall of these tanks
28. Start an apparel boutique
An apparel boutique is a small shop dealing in fashionable clothing or accessories. An apparel boutique is low investment but potentially very profitable idea. However, starting a successful apparel boutique requires creativity and financial stability to help the brand achieve its objective.
Hi! I’m Emily, and I founded Bravery Co. in 2016. Bravery Co. is a company and community that supports chicks with cancer. We create Australia’s only range of designer headwear for cancer warriors with $2 from each scarf donated to cancer research to end this stupid disease.
On average, we make 3-5K profit a month, but this is always put back into the business. (Definitely no superyacht story here yet!)
29. Start a footwear store
Lee Smith is the founder of Urbanity, a contemporary boutique for men’s & women's clothing, footwear, and accessories.
Lee opened the first Urbanity store back in 2009 after graduating from college at the University of Idaho.
It is a locally operated store offering customers the opportunity to shop for stylish fashion items in a cozy and laid-back shopping environment
At Urbanity, people can find renowned brands like Daisy Street, Billionaire Boys Club, Jordan, Girl Dangerous Ice Cream, Nike, Herschel, and others in one store.
Urbanity plans to continue to grow year by year and offer the best and most exclusive brands in the country.
Watch the video on youtube.com ➜
30. Start a health food store
Whilst there aren't any entrepreneurs in my family or close friends group, I grew up watching business TV shows like the BBC's Dragons Den and The Apprentice, always getting mesmerized by the unique ideas and hard work people put into their businesses and brands to turn them into something they could make a living from.
Other than the school 'pretend' businesses you set up as part of your coursework, this was the first viable idea I had meaning I had little to no knowledge of running a business before starting Protein Package. Our current bestselling range of products sold are protein bars, they're super convenient to take on the go, taste amazing, and offer a brilliant macronutrient profile by keeping carbs, fat, and sugars low. Customers love to be able to mix and match all the best protein bar brands from around the world in one place.
31. Start a sports wear store
If you’re a fitness enthusiast looking to start your own business, why not consider opening a sportswear store? This unique venture offers many opportunities to cater to athletes’ and fitness enthusiasts’ needs.
From trendy workout gear to high-performance athletic shoes, your store will be a veritable cornucopia of fitness gear.
Not only will you have the chance to help people find the perfect gear for their workouts, but you’ll also be able to provide expert advice and guidance on the latest trends and technologies in the sportswear industry.
Plus, with the rise of athleisure fashion, your store will appeal to a wide range of customers, from professional athletes to fashion-conscious fitness enthusiasts.
Consider offering personalized services such as custom fittings and specialized gear for specific sports or activities to stand out from the competition.
You could also host events and workshops to engage with your community and build a loyal customer base. A sportswear store can be a lucrative and fulfilling business venture with the proper marketing and customer service strategy.
So, if you’re ready to start your entrepreneurial fitness journey, consider opening a sportswear store today!
Hello everyone! My name is Olguy Songolo. I am the co-founder and CEO of the DIFFERENCE, the very first heelless running shoe brand. Why heelless? Extensive research by the original designer, Etienne Penka, has determined that heel strikes are one of the leading causes of injury for runners, causing a host of negative health consequences in the heels, back, knees, and other impact absorption points. We discovered a simple and elegant solution: remove the heel.
As a Black-owned business, we’ve also seen a great deal of interest from the Black community. Another large segment of customers includes medical professionals such as nurses, who have found that wearing our shoes prevents the pain they are accustomed to the feeling after spending all day on their feet. Over the last two months, we’ve seen our revenue dramatically increase, grossing an average of $12,500 each month.
32. Start a mobile car detailing
Starting a mobile car detailing business is a great way to earn money. The mobile detail business draws customers from the surrounding areas and provides an opportunity to deal with all kinds of vehicles, including classic cars and 18-wheelers.
My name is Josh Belk and I’m the founder of Belk Mobile Detailing. Belk Mobile Detailing is a mobile automotive detailing business in Springfield, Missouri. We come directly to our customer’s homes to make their vehicles look new again. I’m currently a co-owner in the business, with the other owner being my brother Austin.
We have four main types of customers that use our services: professionals, business owners, busy moms, and people looking to sell their vehicles. Our business has been generating an average of $8,000 over the past 12 months and detailing 60-80 vehicles per month.
33. Start a seed selling
I’m Parker Garlitz, one of the Co-Founders of True Leaf Market. We are an independent seed company offering heirloom, non-GMO and organic seeds. We also offer growing supplies and starter kits. We sell to home gardeners up to professional growers. We offer traditional vegetable garden, flower and herb seeds as well as specialty seeds like microgreens, sprouts, and wheatgrass. The other Co-Founders are Lance Heaton, Kaitlin Jones & Robb Baumann.
34. Start a furniture flipping business
Flipping furniture is a business idea that can make you money by working a few hours a week. From kitchen tables to dressers and armories, plus, you can turn old pieces of furniture into a masterpiece that someone would be interested in paying for.
If you have a few hours a week and you enjoy checking out wooden furniture, flipping household or office units can be a profitable business idea for you. Some furniture flippers earn a 6-figure profit per year, from furniture flipping.
- Jack and Joan Ferrell are the founders of Second Time Sellers.
- They buy used items at yard sales, flea markets, and online auctions, then sell them for up to ten times what they originally paid.
- A brand-new inversion table was their very first acquisition. It cost them $50 to purchase, and they sold it for $450.
- They have taken off immediately and set a target of making $250,000 in the upcoming 12 months.
- Presently, they have an eBay store specializing in professional car care supplies and electrical and tools.
Read the full article on https://www.sidehustlenation.com/ ➜
35. Start a Garment Retail Store
While garment retail stores are getting a lot tougher because of huge discount department store chains, they are still a viable business idea for entrepreneurs who are willing to commit extra time and effort to make a sale.
If you are planning to start a garments retail store, develop a strong business strategy that clearly differentiates you and gives shoppers a reason to walk into your store. You will need capital for funding the inventory, paying rent, and some cash reserve to market your business.
36. Start a news stand business
Daniella Pierson is the Founder and CEO of The Newsette, a women-focused newsletter she founded at the age of 19 while still in university. Forbes just tagged her as United States’ one of the richest women of color.
In the initial days, Daniella used to distribute flyers on campus and portrayed herself as a corporate intern due to her lack of confidence in her work as a creative.
To start Newsette, she borrowed $15,000 from her parents to pay for various services, such as a mailing platform and an illustrator to add color to the newsletter.
The founder managed to secure the newsletter's first 15,000 subscribers by stalking her contacts' Facebook friends and acquaintances and offered them roles as newsletter ambassadors, which granted them a couple of additional lines on their resumes if they could attract 10 new subscribers.
Daniella suffers from ADHD, OCD, and depression and to raise awareness about mental health issues she co-founded the mental health startup, Wondermind, along with Selena Gomez and Mandy Teefey, Selena's mother. It was recently appraised at $100 million dollars.
Here is a look at how she is doing today:
- The newsletter has over 500,000 subscribers presently
- Revenue increased from one million dollars in 2019 to 40 million dollars in 2021
- Based on its growth of almost 16,000% over the previous three years, The Newsette is the 16th most successful company in America
Listen to the full podcast on podcasts.apple.com ➜
37. Start a mobile store
38. Start a butcher shop
Starting a butcher business involves sourcing and procuring high-quality meats from local farms or suppliers, preparing and processing them for sale, and selling them to customers in a retail storefront or through wholesale channels. To start and run a successful butcher business, you will need a deep understanding of the different cuts of meat and how to prepare them for sale, as well as excellent customer service skills and a strong business sense.
You will need to secure a location for your business, whether a physical storefront or a processing facility. You will also need to invest in equipment such as refrigerators, freezers, meat processing equipment, and tools like knives and cutting boards. You will need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate your business. You may also need to seek insurance coverage to protect your business against potential liability.
Marketing your business is also crucial to success, whether through online channels, social media, or traditional marketing methods. Building relationships with local farms and suppliers can also be beneficial, as well as developing partnerships with restaurants and other food-based businesses.
Running a butcher business requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for quality meats. With the right planning and execution, however, it can be a rewarding and successful venture.
39. Start a plant nursery shop
Starting a plant nursery shop can be a rewarding and lucrative business opportunity for anyone passionate about plants and gardening. A plant nursery shop is a retail store that sells various plants, including annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, and herbs.
To start a plant nursery shop, you’ll need a physical location to sell your plants. This can be a standalone store or a small corner of a larger retail space. You’ll also need to understand the different types of plants and how to care for them. This includes knowing which plants best suit various climates and how to properly water and fertilize them.
One of the key elements of running a successful plant nursery shop is having a diverse selection of plants that appeal to a wide range of customers. This might include popular annuals like petunias and marigolds and more unusual specimens like orchids and bromeliads. You should also have a good selection of pots and other gardening supplies to help customers take care of their plants once they get them home.
To start a plant nursery shop, you’ll need to invest in essential equipment, such as pots, trays, and other supplies. You may also need to hire a small staff to help you manage the business’s day-to-day operations. This can include sales associates, gardeners, and other experts who can help customers find the right plants for their needs.
Running a plant nursery shop can be a rewarding and fulfilling business opportunity for anyone with a love of plants and gardening. With the right location, selection, and staff, you can create a thriving business that brings joy to your customers and profits to your bottom line.
40. Start an ice cream shop
Starting an ice cream shop can be a fun and rewarding business idea. Whether you're looking to open a small shop in your local neighborhood or a larger franchise, there are a few key things you'll need to consider when starting your ice cream shop.
First and foremost, you’ll need to decide on the type of ice cream you want to serve. There are many different flavors and styles, ranging from traditional vanilla and chocolate to more exotic flavors like mango and green tea. You’ll also need to consider whether you want to offer both soft, hard, or a combination.
Next, you’ll need to find a location for your shop. Look for a location with high foot traffic and good visibility, such as a busy street corner or a shopping mall. You’ll also want to consider factors such as parking availability and competition from other ice cream shops.
Once you’ve found a location, you’ll need to purchase or lease the necessary equipment, such as ice cream makers, freezers, and cash registers. You’ll also need to stock up on supplies such as cups, cones, spoons, and napkins.
To run your ice cream shop successfully, you'll need a strong marketing strategy. This can include advertising through social media, local newspapers, and flyers and offering special promotions and discounts to attract customers. You’ll also need to hire and train employees to serve customers and handle transactions.
Starting an ice cream shop can be a fun and rewarding business venture as long as you have a clear business plan and are prepared to put in the hard work and dedication required to make it a success.
41. Start a ladies garment shop
42. Start a fruits store
Starting a fruit store can be a rewarding and lucrative business idea for those who love working with fresh produce and helping customers lead healthier lives. As a fruit store owner, you will be responsible for sourcing and selling fresh fruits and vegetables to your customers.
To start a fruit store, you must secure a physical location with adequate space to store and display your products. This may be a standalone store or a kiosk within a larger retail space. You will also need to secure a reliable source of fresh produce to sell, which may involve working with local farmers or wholesalers.
In addition to sourcing and selling fruits and vegetables, you may also consider offering other related products, such as smoothies, juices, and prepared fruit salads. To run your fruit store successfully, you will need to have excellent customer service skills and be able to keep track of inventory and pricing.
Marketing and advertising your fruit store will also be crucial to attracting and retaining customers. This may involve creating social media profiles, running promotions, and participating in local events and farmer’s markets.
Starting a fruit store can be a challenging but rewarding business venture. With the proper planning and execution, you can build a successful fruit store that helps your customers lead healthier, happier lives.
- Shannon Houchin started a roadside produce stand, Roadside Republic, mainly selling fresh produce.
- Houchin earns $1000 on weekends while only flipping peaches. Occasionally, she earns up to $3000 over the weekend selling fresh fruits and veggies.
- Finding a busy parking lot or a convenience store for her stand is one of the main aspects of this business. Shannon claimed that she has always paid a base rate of $25 per day for putting up her stand.
Read the full article on sidehustlenation.com ➜
43. Start a pizza store
The global pizza market share is expected to reach $5138 Billion, and the market growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 6.11%. One of the key factors driving growth in the pizza markets is the availability of innovative and exotic flavored pizzas, which drives are more prominent among the millennials.
Moreover, the growing desire for convenience foods and customization of food products will facilitate the pizza market growth. Therefore, starting a pizza store in 2023 can be a profitable business venture. To start, find an attractive location where your business will be visible to customers.
44. Start a toys store
Starting a toy store can be a fun and rewarding business opportunity for anyone looking to tap into the lucrative toy industry. The business involves sourcing and selling a wide range of toys and games for children of all ages. This could include everything from classic board games and dolls to the latest electronic gadgets and tech toys.
To start a toy store, you will need to do market research to identify what toys are prevalent in your area and what age groups you will target.
You will also need to secure a physical location for your store, whether a standalone shop or a space within a shopping mall. You will also need to stock your store with a wide range of products and decide on a pricing strategy to attract customers while allowing you to profit.
Running a toy store involves a lot of customer interaction, so excellent customer service skills are necessary. You will also need good business management skills to handle inventory, pricing, and sales.
Marketing your store through social media and local advertising can also help bring in customers and drive sales.
Starting a toy store can be a fun and rewarding business opportunity for anyone with a passion for toys and a desire to bring joy to children. With the proper planning and execution, you can turn your toy store into a thriving business.
45. Start a Xerox Store
Starting a Xerox store can be a lucrative and rewarding business opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the printing and document solutions industry. This business provides various services, including printing, copying, scanning, and document management.
To start a Xerox store, you’ll need a good location that is easily accessible to your target customers. You’ll also need to invest in high-quality Xerox equipment, including printers, copiers, and scanners. In addition, you’ll need to have a strong marketing and sales strategy to attract new customers and retain existing ones. Running a successful Xerox store also involves providing excellent customer service and building client relationships.
You’ll need to be knowledgeable about the various products and services you offer and be able to troubleshoot any issues that may arise. It would help if you were proactive in staying up-to-date with industry trends and advancements to provide the best solutions to your customers.
Overall, starting a Xerox store requires a combination of business savvy, technical expertise, and excellent customer service skills. You can build a successful business in this exciting and growing industry with the right approach and dedication.
46. Start a departmental store
47. Start a crockery store
48. Start a hydroponic store
49. Start a fuel station business
50. Start a tyre store
51. Start a two-wheeler showroom
52. Start a fabric store
Starting a fabric store can be a rewarding and lucrative business idea for those passionate about fabrics, textiles, and creativity. The key to success in this industry is sourcing high-quality fabrics at competitive prices and offering a wide selection to your customers.
To start a fabric store, you must invest in inventory, including various fabrics in different colors, patterns, and materials. You will also need to rent or purchase a retail space and furnish it with tables, shelves, and display racks to showcase your products. You may also need to invest in a point-of-sale system and online platform to manage orders and transactions.
In addition to managing your inventory and sales, it is important to focus on customer service and building a loyal customer base. This can be achieved by offering personalized assistance to customers, hosting sewing workshops or classes, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in the fabric industry.
A fabric store requires creativity, business acumen, and customer service skills. You can build a successful and fulfilling business in this vibrant and creative industry with the right approach and dedication.
53. Start a liquor shop
54. Start an used book store
Starting a used book store may seem quaint and outdated in today’s digital age, but it can be a thriving and lucrative business.
For bibliophiles and avid readers, a used book store offers a treasure trove of pre-loved books at affordable prices. Not only do customers get to add to their libraries, but they also get to support sustainable practices by giving these books a second life.
A used book store can also serve as a community hub, providing a space for book clubs, readings, and other literary events. So why not dust off the old business plan and open the doors to your used book emporium?
55. Start a gadget accessory store
56. Start a workwear retailer business
57. Start a mobile bar
58. Start a gardening tools hardware
My name is Chris Crawford and I am the founder of RinseKit. We design, manufacture, and sell the RinseKit- a portable pressurized shower that’s like having a hose to go. It doesn’t require pumping or batteries, fills from a hose spigot or sink in 30 seconds, can maintain pressure for up to a month, and is entirely portable. We started the business back about 5 years ago and have since grown to average over $1.5 M in sales each year.
59. Start a corporate uniforms
60. Start a custom phone case
61. Start an automobile service station
Andrew Youderian is the founder of Overlander - a truck parts and accessories company based in Tucson, Arizona. Overlander is a brand-new niche online retailer offering a wide range of dependable, high-quality equipment for off-road expeditions.
Overlander has a broad product catalog with more than 1,000 items and room to grow.
The team set an ambitious goal to establish the brand and its online store as the go-to source for a wide variety of high-quality, tried-and-true equipment within just five months of their launch.
The company was a success almost immediately as it made around $78,000 in gross sales in its first month, and within just six months, it managed to make nearly a million.
They utilized video as much as possible, including the stunning Overlander feature video on the homepage and top-notch educational buyer guide videos for each product category.
Listen to the full podcast on podcasts.apple.com ➜
62. Start a gaming parlour
Hey! 👋 I'm Pat Walls, the founder of Starter Story.
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