Buying your first business is exciting, but let’s be real, it’s also a little scary. So here’s a pro tip. If you want to stack the odds in your favour, choose an industry with a solid track record.

Some businesses are more resilient than others. They offer steady demand, lower risk, and strong survival rates over time, which is exactly what you want when you’re taking your first leap.

Here are five proven industries where first time buyers often thrive, and why they might be the perfect starting point for your business journey.

1. Laundromats: Everyone Needs Clean Clothes

Laundromats are the quiet achievers of the small business world. Why? Because laundry isn’t optional.

They offer:

Steady, recession-resistant demand.
Recurring customers.
Minimal staff requirements.
Great potential for automation.

Modern upgrades like cashless payment, 24/7 access, and low maintenance machines make them surprisingly hands off once up and running.

2. Self Storage: Passive Income, Solid Returns

People and businesses always need more space. That’s why self storage keeps growing, especially in urban areas where space is tight.

Why first time buyers love it:

Low operational costs.
Monthly recurring revenue.
No inventory, no staff headaches.

Location is everything here, but get it right, and you’ve got a dependable, scalable cash flow machine.

3. Vending Machines: Set, Stock, Repeat

Want a business that works while you sleep? Vending machines deliver.

Today’s smart vending setups offer:

Cashless payments.
Health conscious product options.
Data tracking for stock and sales.
Placement in schools, gyms, hospitals, and offices.

Run well, they generate passive income with low overhead. Just don’t skimp on product selection or regular maintenance.

4. Aged Care: Growth with Purpose

Australia’s ageing population means aged care is only getting bigger. From in home services to residential care, the demand is strong and rising.

If you’re mission driven and happy to manage a people first business, aged care can be:

Personally fulfilling.
Highly scalable.
In demand for decades to come.

Heads up. It’s a regulated industry, so you'll need licences, trained staff, and a heart for service. But it’s a rock solid space for serious entrepreneurs.

5. Courier Services: Riding the E-commerce Boom

Online shopping isn’t going anywhere, and that means couriers are essential.

With more small businesses, remote work, and same day delivery options popping up, local courier services are thriving.

Winning here means:

Fast, reliable service.
Good route planning tech.
Strong customer communication.

Nail those, and you’ve got a scalable logistics business that can grow fast.

Final Word from Sherpa

Choosing the right industry for your first business isn’t just about trends. It’s about stacking the deck in your favour.

Laundromats, self storage, vending, aged care, and courier services all offer:

Solid survival rates.
Predictable revenue.
Scalable operations.

But the best business for you also depends on your interests, skills, and market. So do your homework. Start with industries that work, and then find the model that fits your lifestyle and goals.

Browse Sherpa Listings Now.

You might just find your future business waiting for you.