Need advice on starting a computer/laptop shop in a small city
Hi everyone,
I need some advice regarding starting a computer/laptop business in Pakistan.
I was working as a freelancer, but now I want to move into an offline business. I’m thinking about opening a computer/laptop shop where I can sell laptops, build PCs, and offer repair services.
I live in a small city with a population of around 100,000 people, and there are many small villages connected to the city as well. Currently, there is only one proper computer shop here.
The issue is location and rent. Near that existing computer shop, the rent for a decent shop is around PKR 150k–200k per month. However, a little away from that area, I found a shop for PKR 45k per month. That shop is located in an area with many electronics shops, so there is still some relevant foot traffic.
I have experience in laptop repair and PC building, and I can learn quickly. My total budget is around PKR 4 million.
I have two main questions:
Which shop/location would be better for starting this business: the expensive main location or the cheaper shop near electronics shops?
What are the profit margins like in the laptop/computer sales and repair business in Pakistan these days?
I’d really appreciate advice from anyone who has experience in computer shops, laptop repair, electronics retail, or small businesses in Pakistan.
Thanks.