Local catering supplies shop

Cafes, restaurants, food trucks, caterers, market stallholders, and some retail customers such as home bakers and party hosts.

You buy from wholesalers and importers and sell at a markup. Repeat trade customers buying consumables like packaging and utensils keep sales steady, and higher-value equipment adds bigger sales.

• Choosing stock that suits local trade customers
• Stock control and ordering
• Friendly, knowledgeable customer service

• Lease terms, rent and fit-out costs, check these carefully before signing
• Public liability and stock or contents insurance
• Cash tied up in stock, and slow-moving lines
• Check product safety and food-contact material requirements for what you sell
• ABN, and GST registration once you reach the turnover threshold
• Check council requirements for the premises and signage

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on premises, fit-out and how much stock you buy. Check lease terms and rent carefully before signing.

Check lease terms, rent and fit-out costs, council requirements for premises and signage, and product safety and food-contact material rules. Also check insurance and your ABN, with GST registration once you reach the turnover threshold.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on location, range and trade customers. Cash tied up in stock and slow-moving lines can affect results. Expect about 35 hours a week or more.