{"product_id":"game-store-startup-costs","title":"How Much Does It Cost To Open A Game Store? $55k Startup Guide","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"double_border\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-plus-icon.svg\" alt=\"Key Takeaways\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Takeaways\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003eInventory is the biggest opening cash need.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003eBuildout and fixtures should stay separate.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003eHardware costs split from monthly software fees.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003eLaunch spending depends on weekend traffic and staffing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eEstimate Startup Costs with Calculator\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"fml-capex-calculator\" aria-label=\"Game Store Startup CAPEX Calculator\" data-locale=\"en-US\" data-currency=\"USD\" data-default-scenario=\"base\" data-export-filename=\"Startup CAPEX calculator.xlsx\" data-source-site-name=\"Financial Models Lab\" data-source-site-url=\"https:\/\/financialmodelslab.com\" data-source-page-title=\"Game Store Startup CAPEX Calculator\" data-note-title=\"What's excluded\" data-note-text=\"This covers only capitalized startup assets. It excludes initial inventory, payroll runway, lease deposits, debt service, working capital, permits, insurance premiums, marketing, subscriptions, payment processing fees, and ongoing operating costs.\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-card\"\u003e\n\u003cheader class=\"fml-capex-header\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-heading\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-capex-eyebrow\"\u003eStartup CAPEX Calculator\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-capex-intro\"\u003eEstimates capitalized startup assets only for a game store, with most spend landing in Month 1 to Month 3.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-scenarios\" aria-label=\"Scenario presets\"\u003e\n\u003cbutton class=\"fml-capex-scenario\" type=\"button\" data-scenario=\"lean\"\u003eLean\u003c\/button\u003e\u003cbutton class=\"fml-capex-scenario is-active\" type=\"button\" data-scenario=\"base\"\u003eBase\u003c\/button\u003e\u003cbutton class=\"fml-capex-scenario\" type=\"button\" data-scenario=\"full\"\u003eFull\u003c\/button\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/header\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-layout\"\u003e\n\u003cform class=\"fml-capex-inputs\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLeasehold Improvements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eBuildout, fit-out, and store prep work.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"leasehold_improvements\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"Leasehold Improvements\" data-capex-note=\"Buildout, fit-out, and store prep work.\" data-lean=\"12000\" data-base=\"15000\" data-full=\"18000\" name=\"leasehold_improvements\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"15,000\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRetail Fixtures \u0026amp; Shelving\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eDisplays, shelving, and sales-floor setup.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"fixtures_shelving\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"Retail Fixtures \u0026amp; Shelving\" data-capex-note=\"Displays, shelving, and sales-floor setup.\" data-lean=\"8000\" data-base=\"10000\" data-full=\"12000\" name=\"fixtures_shelving\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"10,000\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePOS Hardware\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eCheckout hardware and register setup.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"pos_hardware\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"POS Hardware\" data-capex-note=\"Checkout hardware and register setup.\" data-lean=\"2500\" data-base=\"3000\" data-full=\"3600\" name=\"pos_hardware\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"3,000\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSecurity System Installation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eCamera and security setup costs.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"security_installation\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"Security System Installation\" data-capex-note=\"Camera and security setup costs.\" data-lean=\"1500\" data-base=\"2000\" data-full=\"2500\" name=\"security_installation\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"2,000\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eExterior Signage\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eStorefront signs and outside visibility.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"exterior_signage\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"Exterior Signage\" data-capex-note=\"Storefront signs and outside visibility.\" data-lean=\"2000\" data-base=\"2500\" data-full=\"3200\" name=\"exterior_signage\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"2,500\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eContingency Reserve\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eCovers setup overruns, small scope changes, and install surprises.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-percent\"\u003e\n\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"contingency_reserve\" data-capex-kind=\"percent\" name=\"contingency_reserve\" type=\"range\" min=\"0\" max=\"20\" step=\"1\" data-lean=\"5\" data-base=\"10\" data-full=\"15\" value=\"10\"\u003e\u003coutput data-capex-output=\"contingencyValue\"\u003e10%\u003c\/output\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/form\u003e\n\u003caside class=\"fml-capex-results\" aria-live=\"polite\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-capex-tag\"\u003eStartup CAPEX\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-total\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eTotal startup CAPEX\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-capex-output=\"totalCapex\"\u003e$35,750\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdl class=\"fml-capex-result-list\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdt\u003eSubtotal before contingency\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd data-capex-output=\"subtotal\"\u003e$32,500\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdt\u003eContingency amount\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd data-capex-output=\"contingencyAmount\"\u003e$3,250\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdt\u003eLargest cost driver\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd data-capex-output=\"largestDriver\"\u003eLeasehold Improvements\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/dl\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-chart\" aria-label=\"CAPEX cost category breakdown\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-bar-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eLeasehold\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ci data-capex-bar=\"leasehold_improvements\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 46%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"leasehold_improvements\"\u003e46%\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-bar-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eFixtures\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ci data-capex-bar=\"fixtures_shelving\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 31%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"fixtures_shelving\"\u003e31%\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-bar-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003ePOS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ci data-capex-bar=\"pos_hardware\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 9%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"pos_hardware\"\u003e9%\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-bar-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eSecurity\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ci data-capex-bar=\"security_installation\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 6%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"security_installation\"\u003e6%\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-bar-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eSignage\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ci data-capex-bar=\"exterior_signage\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 8%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"exterior_signage\"\u003e8%\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cbutton class=\"fml-capex-export\" type=\"button\" data-capex-export\u003eEXPORT XLSX\u003c\/button\u003e\u003c\/aside\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-note\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"fml-capex-note-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat's excluded\u003c\/strong\u003e This covers only capitalized startup assets. It excludes initial inventory, payroll runway, lease deposits, debt service, working capital, permits, insurance premiums, marketing, subscriptions, payment processing fees, and ongoing operating costs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"container_new_design_blog\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"text-section_blog text-2_new_design_blog\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"line_top_blog\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eHow does the Game Store startup cost view work?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis screenshot shows \u003ca href=\"\/products\/game-store-financial-model\"\u003eGame Store Financial Model Template\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eCAPEX\u003c\/strong\u003e categories, launch timing, cost amounts, depreciation, amortization. Open it. Review assumptions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eKey screenshot highlights\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCAPEX and startup costs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLaunch timing and inventory\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBreakeven and cash plan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"image-section_blog image-2_new_design_blog\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"preview-card\" data-preview-src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/game-store-financial-model-capex-financialmodelslab_2dc121b6-65c8-4b68-81f8-03afa376bb10.webp\"\u003e\n\u003cimg class=\"preview-img\" width=\"100%\" height=\"auto\" src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/game-store-financial-model-capex-financialmodelslab_2dc121b6-65c8-4b68-81f8-03afa376bb10.webp?width=500\" alt=\"Game Store Financial Model capex inputs that let users customize startup and growth capital expenditures, asset lifecycles and depreciation assumptions for scenario-ready, fully customizable projections.\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preview-overlay\"\u003e\n\u003cbutton class=\"preview-btn\" type=\"button\" style=\"align-items: center; vertical-align: middle; display: inline-flex; justify-content: center; gap: 6px; line-height: 1;\"\u003e\nPREVIEW \u003csvg fill=\"#fff\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" role=\"presentation\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"14\"\u003e\u003cpath d=\"M416 176V86.63L246.6 256L416 425.4V336c0-8.844 7.156-16 16-16s16 7.156 16 16v128c0 8.844-7.156 16-16 16h-128c-8.844 0-16-7.156-16-16s7.156-16 16-16h89.38L224 278.6L54.63 448H144C152.8 448 160 455.2 160 464S152.8 480 144 480h-128C7.156 480 0 472.8 0 464v-128C0 327.2 7.156 320 16 320S32 327.2 32 336v89.38L201.4 256L32 86.63V176C32 184.8 24.84 192 16 192S0 184.8 0 176v-128C0 39.16 7.156 32 16 32h128C152.8 32 160 39.16 160 48S152.8 64 144 64H54.63L224 233.4L393.4 64H304C295.2 64 288 56.84 288 48S295.2 32 304 32h128C440.8 32 448 39.16 448 48v128C448 184.8 440.8 192 432 192S416 184.8 416 176z\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\n\u003c\/button\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eHow much inventory does a Game Store need?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you’re opening a Game Store, plan on about \u003cstrong\u003e$20,000\u003c\/strong\u003e in opening inventory cash, not just store setup cost. The Month 1 mix is \u003cstrong\u003e45%\u003c\/strong\u003e video games, \u003cstrong\u003e30%\u003c\/strong\u003e board games, \u003cstrong\u003e20%\u003c\/strong\u003e hobby supplies, and \u003cstrong\u003e5%\u003c\/strong\u003e event entry, with Year 1 prices at \u003cstrong\u003e$55\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003e$45\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003e$25\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003e$12\u003c\/strong\u003e. Shelf depth is a cash decision, and new versus used video games, consoles, card games, accessories, collectibles, and hobby items all change how much money gets tied up. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eOpening stock\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$20,000\u003c\/strong\u003e is Month 1 inventory cash.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e45%\u003c\/strong\u003e goes to video games.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e30%\u003c\/strong\u003e goes to board games.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e20%\u003c\/strong\u003e goes to hobby supplies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eDemand check\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e445\u003c\/strong\u003e weekly visitors from the flow given.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e18%\u003c\/strong\u003e conversion equals about \u003cstrong\u003e80\u003c\/strong\u003e buyers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNew and used SKUs change cash tied up.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e5%\u003c\/strong\u003e event entry is not inventory stock.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eHow do you fund a Game Store startup?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFund a Game Store by turning the plan into a \u003cstrong\u003e$55,000\u003c\/strong\u003e opening ask plus rent deposits, pre-opening costs, launch marketing, payroll readiness, and cash runway through the early ramp-up. Here’s the quick math: Year 1 staffing uses a \u003cstrong\u003e$55,000\u003c\/strong\u003e Store Manager, a \u003cstrong\u003e$32,000\u003c\/strong\u003e Retail Associate, a second Associate at \u003cstrong\u003e0.5 FTE\u003c\/strong\u003e on a \u003cstrong\u003e$32,000\u003c\/strong\u003e base, and an Event Coordinator at \u003cstrong\u003e0.5 FTE\u003c\/strong\u003e on a \u003cstrong\u003e$28,000\u003c\/strong\u003e base, or about \u003cstrong\u003e$117,000\u003c\/strong\u003e in annual salary before taxes and benefits. Use the funding ask to cover the gap to \u003cstrong\u003eMonth 31 breakeven\u003c\/strong\u003e, because \u003cstrong\u003eYear 1 EBITDA is -$141,000\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eYear 2 EBITDA is -$88,000\u003c\/strong\u003e, and payback lands at \u003cstrong\u003e57 months\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eBuild the ask\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStart with \u003cstrong\u003e$55,000\u003c\/strong\u003e setup.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd deposits and pre-opening costs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInclude launch marketing cash.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFund early ramp-up runway.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eModel the gap\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlan \u003cstrong\u003e$117,000\u003c\/strong\u003e base salary spend.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse \u003cstrong\u003e1\u003c\/strong\u003e manager and \u003cstrong\u003e2\u003c\/strong\u003e associates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd \u003cstrong\u003e0.5 FTE\u003c\/strong\u003e event support.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExpect \u003cstrong\u003e57-month\u003c\/strong\u003e payback timing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eHow much money do you need to open a Game Store?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou need at least \u003cstrong\u003e$55,000\u003c\/strong\u003e to open a Game Store, but the realistic funding need is much higher because Year 1 EBITDA is \u003cstrong\u003e-$141,000\u003c\/strong\u003e and breakeven does not arrive until \u003cstrong\u003eMonth 31\u003c\/strong\u003e. For growth context, see \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/kpi-metrics\/game-store\"\u003eWhat Is The Current Growth Rate Of Game Store?\u003c\/a\u003e, but don’t treat one number as guaranteed because lease terms, SKU depth, and ramp speed change the ask.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eMinimum Opening Cost\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$35,000\u003c\/strong\u003e startup CAPEX\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$20,000\u003c\/strong\u003e initial inventory\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$15,000\u003c\/strong\u003e leasehold improvements\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$10,000\u003c\/strong\u003e fixtures and displays\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eReal Funding Need\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$5,335\u003c\/strong\u003e monthly overhead before payroll\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e-$141,000\u003c\/strong\u003e Year 1 EBITDA\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBreakeven in \u003cstrong\u003eMonth 31\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCash planning reaches \u003cstrong\u003e$563,000\u003c\/strong\u003e by Month 37\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eCalculate Fuding Needs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"fml-summary-static\" aria-label=\"Game Store Startup Cost Summary\" data-locale=\"en-US\" data-currency=\"USD\" data-default-scenario=\"base\" data-export-filename=\"Game Store Startup Cost Summary Table.xlsx\" data-site-name=\"Financial Models Lab\" data-site-url=\"https:\/\/financialmodelslab.com\" data-source-title=\"Game Store Startup Cost Summary\" data-source-url=\"\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-card\"\u003e\n\u003cheader class=\"fml-summary-static-header\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-summary-static-eyebrow\"\u003eStartup Cost Summary\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-summary-static-description\"\u003eThis table summarizes game store startup assets and excluded launch cash needs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-actions\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-scenarios\" aria-label=\"Highlight scenario\"\u003e\n\u003cbutton class=\"fml-summary-static-scenario\" type=\"button\" data-scenario=\"low\"\u003eLow\u003c\/button\u003e\u003cbutton class=\"fml-summary-static-scenario is-active\" type=\"button\" data-scenario=\"base\"\u003eBase\u003c\/button\u003e\u003cbutton class=\"fml-summary-static-scenario\" type=\"button\" data-scenario=\"high\"\u003eHigh\u003c\/button\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cbutton class=\"fml-summary-static-export\" type=\"button\" data-summary-export\u003eEXPORT XLSX\u003c\/button\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/header\u003e\u003csection class=\"fml-summary-static-metrics\" aria-live=\"polite\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-metric is-primary\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eHighlighted CAPEX\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-summary-metric=\"capex\"\u003e$50,500\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003csmall data-summary-metric=\"scenario\"\u003eBase planning example\u003c\/small\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-metric is-warning\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eExcluded cash needs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-summary-metric=\"working\"\u003e$563,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003csmall\u003eOutside CAPEX total\u003c\/small\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-metric\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eFunding need\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-summary-metric=\"funding\"\u003e$613,500\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003csmall\u003eCAPEX + excluded cash needs\u003c\/small\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-table-wrap\"\u003e\u003ctable class=\"fml-summary-static-table\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eCost Category\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\" class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate-header\" data-summary-estimate-header\u003eBase Estimate\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eMain Cost Driver\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eCAPEX Calculator\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-summary-row data-low=\"13000\" data-base=\"15000\" data-high=\"18000\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLeasehold Improvements\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$15,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eStore buildout and landlord finish work\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-pill\"\u003eYes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-summary-row data-low=\"8500\" data-base=\"10000\" data-high=\"12000\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRetail Fixtures \u0026amp; Shelving\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$10,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eDisplay racks, shelves, and counters\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-pill\"\u003eYes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-summary-row data-low=\"18000\" data-base=\"20000\" data-high=\"24000\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eInitial Inventory Stock\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$20,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eOpening stock for video games, board games, and hobby items\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-pill\"\u003eYes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-summary-row data-low=\"2500\" data-base=\"3000\" data-high=\"3500\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePOS Hardware\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$3,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eCheckout terminals and payment setup\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-pill\"\u003eYes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-summary-row data-low=\"2000\" data-base=\"2500\" data-high=\"3000\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExterior Signage\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$2,500\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eStorefront visibility and wayfinding\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-pill\"\u003eYes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"is-excluded\" data-summary-row data-low=\"500000\" data-base=\"563000\" data-high=\"650000\" data-capex=\"false\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWorking Capital Reserve\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$563,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eRent, utilities, payroll, and Year 1 losses to Month 31 breakeven\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-pill is-no\"\u003eNo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cfooter class=\"fml-summary-static-note\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-note-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanning note:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ranges use researched assumptions; row 6 excludes working capital and launch cash.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/footer\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eGame Store Core Five Startup Costs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eInitial Merchandise Inventory Startup Expense\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eOpening stock\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrack initial merchandise inventory separately from CAPEX. Use \u003cstrong\u003e$20,000\u003c\/strong\u003e in \u003cstrong\u003eMonth 1\u003c\/strong\u003e as the base source figure, then split it across video games, board games, hobby supplies, card games, accessories, collectibles, used items, and event-related stock so you can see what is tied up in sellable goods versus buildout assets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_2\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-tips-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eMix and pricing\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize the opening assortment with the sales mix: \u003cstrong\u003e45%\u003c\/strong\u003e video games, \u003cstrong\u003e30%\u003c\/strong\u003e board games, \u003cstrong\u003e20%\u003c\/strong\u003e hobby supplies, and \u003cstrong\u003e5%\u003c\/strong\u003e event entry. Year 1 prices are \u003cstrong\u003e$55\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003e$45\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003e$25\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003e$12\u003c\/strong\u003e by category. Refine the order with supplier terms, wholesale cost assumptions, used trade-in policy, console depth, local demand, and reorder cadence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eControl cash\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep first buys tight and reorder fast. Push deeper into fast movers, not wider shelf fill, because assortment depth drives the range more than square footage alone. Use trade-ins and used items to lower cash outlay, and avoid overbuying slow collectible lines before you see local pull and repeat demand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"double_border\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-pin-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eDepth first\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor this store, the inventory plan is less about filling shelves and more about matching the right depth to what people will actually buy. A tighter mix with stronger console depth, board game choice, and hobby SKUs will usually beat a larger but thin assortment, especially once event traffic starts feeding repeat sales.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eLeasehold Improvements And Store Buildout Startup Expense\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBuildout Scope\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBudget \u003cstrong\u003e$15,000\u003c\/strong\u003e across \u003cstrong\u003eMonths 1 to 3\u003c\/strong\u003e for permanent store work: flooring, paint, lighting, electrical work, checkout area buildout, demo or play space setup, ADA-aware aisle layout, back-room storage, and signage installation coordination. Keep \u003cstrong\u003e$4,000 monthly rent\u003c\/strong\u003e out of this line; rent is operating cost, not CAPEX.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-tips-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBudget Inputs\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize the estimate from the landlord’s delivery condition, electrical needs for demo stations, the amount of play space, local contractor pricing, permitting requirements, and how much work the landlord funds. Here’s the quick math: quote each scope item, then add permits and any tenant-funded gap. That’s the number that belongs in CAPEX.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGet contractor quotes by scope.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAsk what the landlord covers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeparate permits from rent.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_2\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eCost Control\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSave money by reusing any safe existing fixtures, limiting custom carpentry, and getting \u003cstrong\u003e2 to 3 bids\u003c\/strong\u003e before work starts. The biggest savings come when the landlord delivers usable lighting, power, and walls. Don’t cut ADA layout or electrical capacity; fixing those later usually costs more than doing them right the first time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"double_border\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-pin-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eMain Cost Drivers\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis cost moves with \u003cstrong\u003epermit timing\u003c\/strong\u003e, local labor rates, and how much demo or play space you add. A bare-bones shell costs less; a more finished site costs more. Watch for extra electrical runs, patching after demo, and signage coordination delays, since they can push \u003cstrong\u003eMonths 1 to 3\u003c\/strong\u003e spend above plan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eFixtures, Shelving, And Merchandising Startup Expense\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhat It Covers\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep \u003cstrong\u003efixtures\u003c\/strong\u003e separate from inventory and leasehold improvements. The base figure is \u003cstrong\u003e$10,000\u003c\/strong\u003e across \u003cstrong\u003eMonth 1 to Month 3\u003c\/strong\u003e for wall shelving, gondolas, locked cases, card display areas, checkout counter, demo tables, chairs, storage fixtures, and merchandising fixtures. If office furniture and equipment stay separate, add \u003cstrong\u003e$1,500\u003c\/strong\u003e as its own asset row.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_2\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-tips-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eHow to Size It\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere’s the quick math: start with store size, then match fixture depth to the mix. Board games need deep shelves, video games and collectibles need locked cases, and hobby supplies need small-bin storage. Refine the quote with used fixture availability, security needs, and event seating count. Assortment depth drives the range more than square footage alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCount deep shelves by board games\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd locked cases for higher-value stock\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeparate seating from display fixtures\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eHow to Cut It\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuy used fixtures where wear is acceptable, but protect the checkout zone and any locked display cases. Ask for separate quotes for delivery and assembly, and phase extra chairs or demo tables after opening. The main mistake is bundling fixtures into buildout, which hides the real spend and makes replacement planning messy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReuse shelves when condition is solid\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePay up for security-critical cases\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDelay nonessential event seating\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"double_border\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-pin-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eAsset Row Split\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrack \u003cstrong\u003efixtures\u003c\/strong\u003e as capital assets, not as inventory, so depreciation stays clean and resale value is visible. Keep any \u003cstrong\u003e$1,500\u003c\/strong\u003e office furniture and equipment in a separate row if you want sharper control. That split also helps compare fixture spend against security, seating, and merchandising needs as the store layout changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003ePOS, Security, And Store Technology Startup Expense\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003ePOS tech budget\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSplit \u003cstrong\u003ecapital spending (CAPEX)\u003c\/strong\u003e from recurring fees. Budget \u003cstrong\u003e$6,000\u003c\/strong\u003e upfront: \u003cstrong\u003e$3,000\u003c\/strong\u003e POS hardware across Months \u003cstrong\u003e1–2\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003e$2,000\u003c\/strong\u003e security installation in Month \u003cstrong\u003e1\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003e$1,000\u003c\/strong\u003e for the admin computer and peripherals. Keep rent out of this bucket. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-tips-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhat it covers\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse the hardware line for payment terminals, barcode scanners, receipt printer, cash drawer, cameras, alarms, networking, and the back-office computer. Add inventory software and ecommerce integration if online pickup is planned. Recurring costs are \u003cstrong\u003e$150\u003c\/strong\u003e monthly POS and inventory software, \u003cstrong\u003e$60\u003c\/strong\u003e security monitoring, \u003cstrong\u003e$75\u003c\/strong\u003e hosting, plus \u003cstrong\u003e10%\u003c\/strong\u003e payment processing fees. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCount SKUs before buying.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTest used-trade-in tracking.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrice online pickup separately.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_2\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eHow to keep it lean\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMatch the system to \u003cstrong\u003eSKU count\u003c\/strong\u003e and trade-in flow, not store size alone. Fewer SKUs can use simpler hardware, but used inventory tracking and online pickup need tighter scanning and software. The main mistake is underbuying terminals or scanners, then patching with add-ons later. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"double_border\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-pin-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eWhat drives the bill\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere’s the quick math: higher SKU counts, more used items, and trade-in checks push both setup time and software use. If the store expects online pickup, the tech stack needs inventory accuracy from day one. That makes \u003cstrong\u003ehardware CAPEX\u003c\/strong\u003e a one-time build and \u003cstrong\u003esoftware, hosting, monitoring, and processing\u003c\/strong\u003e the costs that keep hitting every month. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eCompliance, Insurance, Staffing, And Launch Startup Expense\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003ePre-open items\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClassify most launch work as pre-opening expense unless it is capitalized. That includes business registration, resale certificate, local permits, insurance down payments, accountant setup, legal review, staff training, soft opening, launch promotions, event setup, and prize support. The budget starts with filings and setup, then scales with the opening calendar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_2\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-tips-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eInsurance and fees\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFixed business insurance is modeled at \u003cstrong\u003e$200 per month\u003c\/strong\u003e, or \u003cstrong\u003e$2,400\u003c\/strong\u003e a year. Estimate it from months of coverage plus any down payment, then keep permits, legal review, and accountant setup in the same opening bucket. This is a small line item, but skipping it can delay opening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eStaffing readiness\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYear 1 staffing should include a \u003cstrong\u003eStore Manager\u003c\/strong\u003e at \u003cstrong\u003e$55,000\u003c\/strong\u003e, one \u003cstrong\u003eRetail Associate\u003c\/strong\u003e at \u003cstrong\u003e$32,000\u003c\/strong\u003e, a second associate at \u003cstrong\u003e0.5 FTE\u003c\/strong\u003e on \u003cstrong\u003e$32,000\u003c\/strong\u003e, and an \u003cstrong\u003eEvent Coordinator\u003c\/strong\u003e at \u003cstrong\u003e0.5 FTE\u003c\/strong\u003e on \u003cstrong\u003e$28,000\u003c\/strong\u003e. That is \u003cstrong\u003e$117,000\u003c\/strong\u003e of annual salary basis before payroll taxes and training costs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"double_border\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-pin-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eLaunch traffic plan\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSet launch spend against \u003cstrong\u003e120\u003c\/strong\u003e Saturday visitors and \u003cstrong\u003e90\u003c\/strong\u003e Sunday visitors in Year 1. Marketing and promotion run at \u003cstrong\u003e25%\u003c\/strong\u003e of revenue, and event prize support at \u003cstrong\u003e10%\u003c\/strong\u003e, so the opening mix should match weekend traffic instead of guessing. Keep the soft opening tight, then scale event setup with actual turnout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eCompare 3 Startup Cost Scenarios\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"fml-scenario-table\" aria-label=\"Game Store Startup Cost Scenarios\" data-site-name=\"Financial Models Lab\" data-site-url=\"https:\/\/financialmodelslab.com\" data-source-title=\"Game Store Startup Cost Scenarios\" data-note-label=\"Planning note\" data-note-text=\"Scenario ranges are researched planning assumptions from the model, not vendor quotes or exact bids.\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-scenario-table-card\"\u003e\n\u003cheader class=\"fml-scenario-table-header\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-scenario-table-eyebrow\"\u003eStartup cost scenar\nios\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-scenario-table-description\"\u003eBigger stores need more cash because inventory, fixtures, play space, and reserves rise together. Lean, Base, and Full show how much the opening check changes as the shop gets more ambitious.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-scenario-table-actions\"\u003e\u003cbutton class=\"fml-scenario-table-export\" type=\"button\" data-scenario-export\u003eEXPORT XLSX\u003c\/button\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/header\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-scenario-table-wrap\"\u003e\u003ctable class=\"fml-scenario-table-grid\"\u003e\n\u003ccaption\u003eCompare lean, base, and full opening budgets for a game store.\u003c\/caption\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-table-stub\" scope=\"col\" data-export-value=\"Scenario\"\u003eScenario\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-table-column\" scope=\"col\" data-export-value=\"Lean Launch\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-column-title\"\u003eLean Launch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-soft\"\u003eLowest cash risk\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-table-column\" scope=\"col\" data-export-value=\"Base Launch\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-column-title\"\u003eBase Launch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-soft\"\u003eBalanced launch\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-table-column\" scope=\"col\" data-export-value=\"Full Launch\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-column-title\"\u003eFull Launch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-warning\"\u003eCommunity-heavy launch\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-scenario-row\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading\" scope=\"row\" data-export-value=\"Launch model\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading-inner\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon is-launch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon-img\" src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/scenario-launch-model.svg\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-title\"\u003eLaunch model\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"A small shop with a tighter SKU mix, reused fixtures, and limited play space.\"\u003eA small shop with a tighter SKU mix, reused fixtures, and limited play space.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Uses the model's core setup with about $35,000 of buildout and $20,000 of initial inventory.\"\u003eUses the model's core setup with about $35,000 of buildout and $20,000 of initial inventory.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Adds deeper video game, board game, card game, and hobby inventory plus a bigger event-led layout.\"\u003eAdds deeper video game, board game, card game, and hobby inventory plus a bigger event-led layout.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-scenario-row\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading\" scope=\"row\" data-export-value=\"Typical setup\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading-inner\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon is-setup\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon-img\" src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/scenario-typical-setup.svg\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-title\"\u003eTypical setup\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Uses basic shelving, a smaller inventory set, and a simple tech stack to keep the opening bill low.\"\u003eUses basic shelving, a smaller inventory set, and a simple tech stack to keep the opening bill low.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Carries standard shelving, the researched $4,000 monthly rent, and the Month 31 breakeven path.\"\u003eCarries standard shelving, the researched $4,000 monthly rent, and the Month 31 breakeven path.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Includes more locked cases, a larger play or event area, stronger security, and a larger cash reserve.\"\u003eIncludes more locked cases, a larger play or event area, stronger security, and a larger cash reserve.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-scenario-row\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading\" scope=\"row\" data-export-value=\"Cost drivers\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading-inner\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon is-drivers\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon-img\" src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/scenario-cost-drivers.svg\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-title\"\u003eCost drivers\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Smaller SKU depth; reused fixtures; limited play area; basic POS; lower opening inventory\"\u003e\u003cul class=\"fml-scenario-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSmaller SKU depth\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ereused fixtures\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003elimited play area\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ebasic POS\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003elower opening inventory\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Standard buildout; initial inventory; rent and setup; POS hardware; staffing\"\u003e\u003cul class=\"fml-scenario-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStandard buildout\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003einitial inventory\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003erent and setup\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePOS hardware\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003estaffing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Deeper inventory; locked cases; larger event area; stronger security; bigger cash reserve\"\u003e\u003cul class=\"fml-scenario-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeeper inventory\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003elocked cases\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003elarger event area\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003estronger security\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ebigger cash reserve\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-scenario-row\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading\" scope=\"row\" data-export-value=\"Planning range\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading-inner\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon is-range\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon-img\" src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/scenario-planning-range.svg\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-title\"\u003ePlanning range\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-subtitle\"\u003eCAPEX only\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"$35,000 - $55,000\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong class=\"fml-scenario-range\"\u003e$35,000 - $55,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-soft\"\u003eTight budget\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"$55,000 - $75,000\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong class=\"fml-scenario-range\"\u003e$55,000 - $75,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-soft\"\u003eCore setup\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"$80,000 - $125,000\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong class=\"fml-scenario-range\"\u003e$80,000 - $125,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-warning\"\u003eHighest cash need\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-scenario-row\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading\" scope=\"row\" data-export-value=\"Best fit\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading-inner\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon is-fit\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon-img\" src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/scenario-best-fit.svg\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-title\"\u003eBest fit\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Best for founders testing demand before they commit to a fuller retail buildout.\"\u003eBest for founders testing demand before they commit to a fuller retail buildout.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Best for owners who want a realistic launch with enough stock to serve steady foot traffic.\"\u003eBest for owners who want a realistic launch with enough stock to serve steady foot traffic.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Best for operators building a destination store around events, community, and wider product depth.\"\u003eBest for operators building a destination store around events, community, and wider product depth.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-scenario-table-note\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-table-note-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanning note:\u003c\/strong\u003e Scenario ranges are researched planning assumptions from the model, not vendor quotes or exact bids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e","brand":"FinancialModelsLab","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49303667572979,"sku":"game-store-startup-costs","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0522\/6191\/2762\/files\/game-store-startup-costs.webp?v=1782683179","url":"https:\/\/financialmodelslab.com\/products\/game-store-startup-costs","provider":"Financial Models Lab","version":"1.0","type":"link"}