{"product_id":"vape-shop-startup-costs","title":"How Much Does It Cost To Open A Vape Shop? $95K CAPEX Plan","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"container_new_design\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text-section text-1_new_design\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"line_top\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis breakdown uses a researched \u003cstrong\u003e$95,500 CAPEX plan\u003c\/strong\u003e, plus opening-month operating needs such as $3,500 rent, $120 insurance, $200 POS software, and payroll that starts in Month 1 It separates buildout, fixtures, technology, inventory, licensing\/compliance planning, deposits, launch expenses, and working capital, with model outcomes through the first operating year including \u003cstrong\u003e-$94,000 EBITDA\u003c\/strong\u003e and breakeven in Month 18 These are planning assumptions, not vendor quotes, and they exclude debt service, owner salary, and long-term operating losses unless noted\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"image-section image-1_new_design\" id=\"main_article_image\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\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=\"Vape Shop 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=\"Vape Shop Startup CAPEX Calculator\" data-note-title=\"Scope note\" data-note-text=\"This covers one-time startup assets only. It excludes monthly rent, post-opening payroll, debt service, working capital, deposits, recurring software, and inventory replenishment; opening stock is included in launch setup.\"\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 one-time startup assets for a vape shop only, not ongoing operating cash needs.\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 and Buildout\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eStore size and buildout level, plus basic construction and finish 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_buildout\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"Leasehold Improvements and Buildout\" data-capex-note=\"Store size and buildout level, plus basic construction and finish work.\" data-lean=\"25000\" data-base=\"30000\" data-full=\"36000\" name=\"leasehold_improvements_buildout\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"30,000\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFixtures and Display Cases\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eRetail fixtures, shelving, display cases, and merch layout.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"fixtures_displays\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"Fixtures and Display Cases\" data-capex-note=\"Retail fixtures, shelving, display cases, and merch layout.\" data-lean=\"12000\" data-base=\"15000\" data-full=\"18000\" name=\"fixtures_displays\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"15,000\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePOS Hardware and Peripherals\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003ePOS hardware, barcode scanner, and ID verification hardware.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"pos_hardware_peripherals\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"POS Hardware and Peripherals\" data-capex-note=\"POS hardware, barcode scanner, and ID verification hardware.\" data-lean=\"3000\" data-base=\"4000\" data-full=\"6000\" name=\"pos_hardware_peripherals\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"4,000\"\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 Cameras and Alarm Equipment\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eSecurity cameras, alarm gear, and related setup.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"security_cameras_alarm_system\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"Security Cameras and Alarm Equipment\" data-capex-note=\"Security cameras, alarm gear, and related setup.\" data-lean=\"2000\" data-base=\"2500\" data-full=\"3500\" name=\"security_cameras_alarm_system\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"2,500\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOpening Stock and Launch Setup\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eOpening inventory quantity, signage, HVAC needs, office furniture, and website setup.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"opening_stock_launch_setup\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"Opening Stock and Launch Setup\" data-capex-note=\"Opening inventory quantity, signage, HVAC needs, office furniture, and website setup.\" data-lean=\"36000\" data-base=\"44000\" data-full=\"51000\" name=\"opening_stock_launch_setup\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"44,000\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eContingency Reserve\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eReserve for buildout overruns and small startup surprises.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-percent\"\u003e\n\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"contingency\" data-capex-kind=\"percent\" name=\"contingency\" 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 total\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-total\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eTotal startup CAPEX\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-capex-output=\"totalCapex\"\u003e$105,050\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$95,500\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdt\u003eContingency amount\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd data-capex-output=\"contingencyAmount\"\u003e$9,550\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdt\u003eLargest cost driver\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd data-capex-output=\"largestDriver\"\u003eOpening Stock and Launch Setup\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\u003eBuildout\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ci data-capex-bar=\"leasehold_improvements_buildout\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 31%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"leasehold_improvements_buildout\"\u003e31%\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_displays\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 16%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"fixtures_displays\"\u003e16%\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_peripherals\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 4%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"pos_hardware_peripherals\"\u003e4%\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_cameras_alarm_system\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 3%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"security_cameras_alarm_system\"\u003e3%\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-bar-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eLaunch setup\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ci data-capex-bar=\"opening_stock_launch_setup\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 46%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"opening_stock_launch_setup\"\u003e46%\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\u003eScope note\u003c\/strong\u003e This covers one-time startup assets only. It excludes monthly rent, post-opening payroll, debt service, working capital, deposits, recurring software, and inventory replenishment; opening stock is included in launch setup.\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;\"\u003eWhat should the CAPEX tab show?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/products\/vape-shop-financial-model\"\u003eVape Shop Financial Model Template\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eCAPEX tab\u003c\/strong\u003e lists startup costs, Month 1–12 timing, and depreciation\/amortization. Review assumptions before funding talks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eKey screenshot highlights\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e$95.5k CAPEX total\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYear 1 EBITDA: -$94k\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMonth 18 breakeven\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMonth 21 cash low\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e39-month payback\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\/vape-shop-financial-model-capex-financialmodelslab_73fdee1a-73e3-4933-a907-18cf7304cb63.webp\"\u003e\n\u003cimg class=\"preview-img\" width=\"100%\" height=\"auto\" src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/vape-shop-financial-model-capex-financialmodelslab_73fdee1a-73e3-4933-a907-18cf7304cb63.webp?width=500\" alt=\"Vape Shop Financial Model capex inputs showing capital expenditure categories and timelines, letting users customize startup and growth investments, depreciation schedules and funding needs for scenario-ready planning\"\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 vape shop need?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Vape Shop usually needs about \u003cstrong\u003e$25,000\u003c\/strong\u003e in opening stock to start, but the real decision is how deep to go: \u003cstrong\u003eshallow SKU depth\u003c\/strong\u003e keeps cash free, while \u003cstrong\u003ebroad SKU depth\u003c\/strong\u003e gives more choice but ties up money. Using the Year 1 mix, that stock works out to about \u003cstrong\u003e$10,000\u003c\/strong\u003e in devices, \u003cstrong\u003e$11,250\u003c\/strong\u003e in e-liquids, and \u003cstrong\u003e$3,750\u003c\/strong\u003e in accessories, at prices of \u003cstrong\u003e$55\u003c\/strong\u003e devices, \u003cstrong\u003e$18\u003c\/strong\u003e e-liquids, and \u003cstrong\u003e$12\u003c\/strong\u003e accessories. Inventory is both startup \u003cstrong\u003eCAPEX\u003c\/strong\u003e and replenishment cash, so it has to cover disposables, e-liquids, devices, pods, coils, tanks, batteries, chargers, and accessories.\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\u003eStock split\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e40%\u003c\/strong\u003e devices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e45%\u003c\/strong\u003e e-liquids\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e15%\u003c\/strong\u003e accessories\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$25,000\u003c\/strong\u003e opening stock\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\u003eCash trade-off\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShallow depth frees cash\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBroad depth ties up cash\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStock must replenish fast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMatch Year 1 sales mix\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 vape shop?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou need about \u003cstrong\u003e$95,500 in researched CAPEX\u003c\/strong\u003e to open a Vape Shop before working capital, but the real funding need is higher because fixed overhead runs \u003cstrong\u003e$5,570\/month\u003c\/strong\u003e and Year 1 payroll is about \u003cstrong\u003e$9,333\/month\u003c\/strong\u003e; track demand quality with \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/kpi-metrics\/vape-shop\"\u003eWhat Is The Current Customer Engagement Level For Vape Shop?\u003c\/a\u003e before assuming fast repeat sales. Startup cost is not profitability: the model shows \u003cstrong\u003eYear 1 EBITDA of -$94,000\u003c\/strong\u003e, breakeven in \u003cstrong\u003eMonth 18\u003c\/strong\u003e, payback in \u003cstrong\u003e39 months\u003c\/strong\u003e, and minimum cash point in \u003cstrong\u003eMonth 21\u003c\/strong\u003e.\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\u003eBudget Snapshot\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStart with \u003cstrong\u003e$95,500 CAPEX\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd cash for \u003cstrong\u003e$5,570\/month overhead\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlan payroll at \u003cstrong\u003e$9,333\/month\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExpect \u003cstrong\u003e-$94,000 Year 1 EBITDA\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\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\u003eCost Drivers\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eControl shop size and rent\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLimit buildout scope creep\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSet inventory depth carefully\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBudget payment processing and compliance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eHow should you build a vape shop funding plan?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuild the funding plan around the \u003cstrong\u003e$95,500\u003c\/strong\u003e CAPEX schedule, then tie launch timing to traffic, conversion, and repeat orders so lenders can see when cash turns. With \u003cstrong\u003e15%\u003c\/strong\u003e conversion on \u003cstrong\u003e25 to 60\u003c\/strong\u003e daily visitors, you get about \u003cstrong\u003e4 to 9 orders a day\u003c\/strong\u003e, and at \u003cstrong\u003e18 units per order\u003c\/strong\u003e that is \u003cstrong\u003e72 to 162 units a day\u003c\/strong\u003e. Year 1 variable costs are a \u003cstrong\u003e42%\u003c\/strong\u003e load, so gross margin before fixed costs is \u003cstrong\u003e58%\u003c\/strong\u003e, and the cash plan should cover the low point before \u003cstrong\u003e15 repeat orders per month\u003c\/strong\u003e start paying back the build.\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\u003eLaunch math\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$95,500\u003c\/strong\u003e CAPEX across Months 1-12\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e25 to 60\u003c\/strong\u003e visitors per day\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e15%\u003c\/strong\u003e conversion rate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e18 units\u003c\/strong\u003e per order\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\u003eCash plan\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e42%\u003c\/strong\u003e Year 1 variable cost load\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e58%\u003c\/strong\u003e gross margin before fixed costs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e15\u003c\/strong\u003e repeat orders per month\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShow breakeven timing and cash runway\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=\"Vape Shop Startup Cost Summary\" data-locale=\"en-US\" data-currency=\"USD\" data-default-scenario=\"base\" data-export-filename=\"Vape Shop Startup Cost Summary.xlsx\" data-site-name=\"Financial Models Lab\" data-site-url=\"https:\/\/financialmodelslab.com\" data-source-title=\"Vape Shop 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 Table\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-summary-static-description\"\u003eThis table shows startup CAPEX and excluded cash needs for opening a vape retail store.\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$82,000\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$738,000\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$820,000\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=\"27000\" data-base=\"30000\" data-high=\"33000\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLeasehold Improvements\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$30,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eStore buildout and tenant fit-out\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=\"22500\" data-base=\"25000\" data-high=\"27500\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eInitial Inventory Stock\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$25,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eOpening stock depth and mix\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=\"13500\" data-base=\"15000\" data-high=\"16500\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRetail Fixtures \u0026amp; Displays\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\"\u003eShelving, counters, and display units\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=\"7200\" data-base=\"8000\" data-high=\"8800\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHVAC System Upgrade\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$8,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eStore climate control and install scope\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=\"3600\" data-base=\"4000\" data-high=\"4400\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePOS Hardware \u0026amp; Age Verification\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$4,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eCheckout hardware and compliance gear\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=\"650000\" data-base=\"738000\" data-high=\"850000\" data-capex=\"false\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWorking Capital Reserve\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$738,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eEarly loss runway to breakeven and Month 21 cash trough\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 planning assumptions; non-CAPEX needs cover launch cash, not fixed assets.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/footer\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eVape Shop Core Five Startup Costs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eInitial 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\u003eBase Stock\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse \u003cstrong\u003e$25,000\u003c\/strong\u003e of opening stock for \u003cstrong\u003eMonth 4 through Month 6\u003c\/strong\u003e. That covers disposables, e-liquids, devices, starter kits, pods, coils, tanks, batteries, chargers, and accessories. It is the first cash tied up in product, so it should sit inside the launch budget, not beside it.\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 Plan\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuild the buy around the Year 1 mix: \u003cstrong\u003e40%\u003c\/strong\u003e devices, \u003cstrong\u003e45%\u003c\/strong\u003e e-liquids, and \u003cstrong\u003e15%\u003c\/strong\u003e accessories. At \u003cstrong\u003e$55\u003c\/strong\u003e per device, \u003cstrong\u003e$18\u003c\/strong\u003e per e-liquid, and \u003cstrong\u003e$12\u003c\/strong\u003e per accessory, the opening stock works out to about \u003cstrong\u003e$10,000\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003e$11,250\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003e$3,750\u003c\/strong\u003e by category. Use \u003cstrong\u003e18 units per order\u003c\/strong\u003e to size depth across the first shelves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e40%\u003c\/strong\u003e devices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e45%\u003c\/strong\u003e e-liquids\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e15%\u003c\/strong\u003e accessories\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\u003eBuy Tight\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeeper shelves improve choice, but they also tie up cash before sell-through. Keep the first buy tight, then refill faster on the items that move. The mistake is loading too many slow SKUs on day one, which leaves money sitting in inventory instead of ready for rent, payroll, and reorders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCut slow movers first.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTrack sell-through weekly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReorder before stockouts.\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;\"\u003eCash Tie-Up\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere’s the quick math: the \u003cstrong\u003e$25,000\u003c\/strong\u003e opening stock is a working buffer for the first buying cycle, not a forever target. If demand runs heavier on devices or e-liquids, keep the mix aligned to the \u003cstrong\u003e40\/45\/15\u003c\/strong\u003e plan and let turn rate, not shelf size, drive the next order.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eLease And 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 Budget\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTreat \u003cstrong\u003e$30,000\u003c\/strong\u003e of leasehold improvements plus a \u003cstrong\u003e$8,000\u003c\/strong\u003e HVAC upgrade as store-readiness CAPEX, not rent. That bucket covers flooring, counters, electrical, lighting, signage prep, storage, display layout, landlord-required work, and customer flow. Use it to compare a second-generation retail shell against a heavier renovation before you sign.\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\u003eLease Cash\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeparate buildout cash from \u003cstrong\u003e$3,500\u003c\/strong\u003e monthly rent and any lease deposits. Here’s the quick math: if the site is usable, second-generation space can cut work; if not, Month \u003cstrong\u003e1\u003c\/strong\u003e to Month \u003cstrong\u003e9\u003c\/strong\u003e may be needed for improvements and HVAC. Ask for itemized landlord scope and make-ready dates before you commit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAsk who pays code work.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfirm HVAC capacity in writing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGet make-ready dates before signing.\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\u003eLandlord Ask\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWalk in with a checklist. Ask what is required for flooring, electrical, lighting, signage, storage, and customer flow, then separate landlord-required work from your own finish-out. If the space needs less than a full rebuild, you protect cash; if it needs more, your opening timeline and funding need to stretch.\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;\"\u003ePre-Sign Questions\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGet the landlord to spell out the shell condition, HVAC status, and any required permits before you sign. A second-generation retail space can save months and cash, but only if the existing layout, utilities, and air handling already fit your plan. If not, treat the extra work as part of your opening budget.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eLicensing And Compliance 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\u003ePermit Setup\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis line covers \u003cstrong\u003estate and local licensing\u003c\/strong\u003e, a \u003cstrong\u003etobacco or vapor product retailer permit\u003c\/strong\u003e, sales tax registration, zoning checks, signage permits, and legal review. Fees vary by \u003cstrong\u003estate, county, and city\u003c\/strong\u003e, so quote locally. Build the checklist around age-restriction policies, \u003cstrong\u003ePOS\u003c\/strong\u003e setup, and \u003cstrong\u003eID verification\u003c\/strong\u003e so compliance is ready before the first sale.\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\u003eBudget Inputs\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBudget this as a \u003cstrong\u003equoted pre-opening line\u003c\/strong\u003e, not a fixed price. Count each filing, permit, and review hour, plus the work needed to document staff training and compliance records. The spend sits ahead of opening and should be planned beside lease, payroll, and inventory so delays do not drain cash after rent starts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAsk for local fee schedules.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfirm zoning before signing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLink ID checks to POS.\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\u003eKeep It Tight\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep it tight with one local checklist, one file for training logs, and one process for age checks. Ask the landlord what \u003cstrong\u003esignage\u003c\/strong\u003e and zoning work is required before you sign. Don’t split records across tools; that creates rework. Faster setup saves cash, but the goal is clean approval, not the lowest fee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse one approval tracker.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStore records in one place.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTrain before first sale.\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;\"\u003eCash Buffer\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse this as a \u003cstrong\u003eworking-capital\u003c\/strong\u003e buffer, because rent and payroll can start before sales. The model shows \u003cstrong\u003e$3,500\u003c\/strong\u003e monthly rent, \u003cstrong\u003e$9,333\u003c\/strong\u003e monthly Year 1 payroll, \u003cstrong\u003eYear 1 EBITDA of -$94,000\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eMonth 18 breakeven\u003c\/strong\u003e, and a \u003cstrong\u003eMonth 21\u003c\/strong\u003e cash low point. Delays in permits make that gap wider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eFixtures, POS, And Security 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\u003eStartup setup\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor this store, the \u003cstrong\u003efixtures, POS, and security\u003c\/strong\u003e line item is about \u003cstrong\u003e$23,500\u003c\/strong\u003e in CAPEX, plus \u003cstrong\u003e$300\/month\u003c\/strong\u003e for software and monitoring. The main drivers are how many glass cases you need, how many checkout stations you open, and how much camera coverage and inventory tracking you want.\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\u003eFixtures\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e$15,000\u003c\/strong\u003e covers glass display cases, shelving, a checkout counter, and layout pieces that shape customer flow. Size this by \u003cstrong\u003enumber of cases\u003c\/strong\u003e, counter length, and storage needs. More display space can improve selection, but it also ties up cash before sell-through.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCount cases before pricing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMatch shelving to SKU depth\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep back-room storage tight\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\u003ePOS And Security\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBudget \u003cstrong\u003e$4,000\u003c\/strong\u003e for POS hardware and peripherals, plus \u003cstrong\u003e$2,500\u003c\/strong\u003e for cameras and \u003cstrong\u003e$2,000\u003c\/strong\u003e for office furniture. That covers the barcode scanner, ID verification tools, alarms, safes, and back-office gear. Keep durable items in CAPEX and treat the \u003cstrong\u003e$200\u003c\/strong\u003e monthly POS software and \u003cstrong\u003e$100\u003c\/strong\u003e security fee as operating spend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrice checkout stations first\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMap camera zones to blind spots\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTrack IDs at the register\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;\"\u003eBudget control\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse the POS and inventory system to track stock by unit, not just by dollar value, so you know when devices, e-liquids, and accessories move. If you add more cases or wider camera coverage, expect the budget to rise fast. The clean rule: buy hardware once, then pay monthly only for software and monitoring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003ePre-Opening And Working Capital 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 Cash\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWorking capital\u003c\/strong\u003e pays for hiring, training, rent before opening, insurance binders, processor setup, software, and the first marketing push. It is separate from the \u003cstrong\u003e$95,500 CAPEX\u003c\/strong\u003e for buildout and equipment. Base the cash need on \u003cstrong\u003e$5,570\u003c\/strong\u003e monthly overhead plus about \u003cstrong\u003e$9,333\u003c\/strong\u003e monthly payroll, before any debt service or owner salary.\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\u003eStartup Uses\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse this bucket for \u003cstrong\u003estaff hiring and training\u003c\/strong\u003e, the first ads, \u003cstrong\u003einsurance binders\u003c\/strong\u003e, pre-open rent, card processor setup, and first software subscriptions. The main input is months of coverage before sales start. More time to open means more cash tied up, even if the store is already built.\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\u003eBurn Rate\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere’s the quick math: \u003cstrong\u003e$5,570\u003c\/strong\u003e fixed overhead plus \u003cstrong\u003e$9,333\u003c\/strong\u003e payroll equals \u003cstrong\u003e$14,903\u003c\/strong\u003e a month before debt service and owner salary. The model shows \u003cstrong\u003eYear 1 EBITDA\u003c\/strong\u003e (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) of \u003cstrong\u003e-$94,000\u003c\/strong\u003e, so this is a real cash need, not a paper cost.\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;\"\u003eRunway Risk\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe model hits \u003cstrong\u003ebreakeven in Month 18\u003c\/strong\u003e and a \u003cstrong\u003ecash low point in Month 21\u003c\/strong\u003e. That is why working capital should be sized past opening, not just to day one. If debt service or owner salary is added later, the cash gap gets larger fast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"c\nolor: #126CFF;\"\u003eCompare 3 Startup Cost Scenarios\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"fml-scenario-table\" aria-label=\"Vape Shop Startup Cost Scenarios\" data-site-name=\"Financial Models Lab\" data-site-url=\"https:\/\/financialmodelslab.com\" data-source-title=\"Vape Shop Startup Cost Scenarios\" data-note-label=\"Planning note\" data-note-text=\"These scenario ranges are researched planning assumptions from the model, not vendor quotes or final 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 scenarios\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-scenario-table-description\"\u003eStartup cost rises with store size, inventory depth, and cash runway. Lean keeps the buildout tight; Full adds more fixtures, security, signage, and HVAC.\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\u003eLean, Base, and Full startup cost bands for a vape shop\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\"\u003eCompact store\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\"\u003eStandard retail 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\"\u003eDeeper assortment 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 compact storefront with a lean buildout and limited SKU depth.\"\u003eA compact storefront with a lean buildout and limited SKU depth.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"A standard retail launch anchored to the model's $95,500 CAPEX.\"\u003eA standard retail launch anchored to the model's $95,500 CAPEX.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"A larger store with deeper inventory and more cash tied up at start.\"\u003eA larger store with deeper inventory and more cash tied up at start.\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=\"Use fewer display cases, a tighter inventory set, and basic website scope.\"\u003eUse fewer display cases, a tighter inventory set, and basic website scope.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Use full model assumptions for fixtures, inventory, signage, website, and HVAC.\"\u003eUse full model assumptions for fixtures, inventory, signage, website, and HVAC.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Add stronger fixtures, more security coverage, heavier signage, and broader website scope.\"\u003eAdd stronger fixtures, more security coverage, heavier signage, and broader website scope.\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=\"Lower rent site; smaller buildout; lighter inventory; fewer displays; basic website\"\u003e\u003cul class=\"fml-scenario-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLower rent site\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003esmaller buildout\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003elighter inventory\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003efewer displays\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ebasic website\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Market rent; licensing costs; full inventory mix; website setup; standard HVAC\"\u003e\u003cul class=\"fml-scenario-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMarket rent\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003elicensing costs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003efull inventory mix\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ewebsite setup\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003estandard HVAC\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Higher rent; licensing complexity; deeper inventory; stronger security; bigger HVAC\"\u003e\u003cul class=\"fml-scenario-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigher rent\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003elicensing complexity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003edeeper inventory\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003estronger security\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ebigger HVAC\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=\"$70,000 - $85,000\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong class=\"fml-scenario-range\"\u003e$70,000 - $85,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-soft\"\u003eLower band\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"$95,500\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong class=\"fml-scenario-range\"\u003e$95,500\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-soft\"\u003eModel base\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"$120,000 - $150,000\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong class=\"fml-scenario-range\"\u003e$120,000 - $150,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-warning\"\u003eHigher band\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=\"Fits a small store and a tighter cash plan.\"\u003eFits a small store and a tighter cash plan.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Fits a normal storefront and moderate cash risk.\"\u003eFits a normal storefront and moderate cash risk.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Fits a larger footprint and a higher cash cushion.\"\u003eFits a larger footprint and a higher cash cushion.\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 These scenario ranges are researched planning assumptions from the model, not vendor quotes or final bids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e","brand":"FinancialModelsLab","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49304465703155,"sku":"vape-shop-startup-costs","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0522\/6191\/2762\/files\/vape-shop-startup-costs.webp?v=1782694596","url":"https:\/\/financialmodelslab.com\/products\/vape-shop-startup-costs","provider":"Financial Models Lab","version":"1.0","type":"link"}