Cosmetics maker supplying salons and retailers

Salons, spas, boutiques, gift shops and small brands that want products made for them.

You sell larger batches at wholesale prices, plus minimum-order private label runs for other brands. Repeat orders from the same customers matter most.

• Consistent batch production
• Quality control and record keeping
• Pricing and costing
• Selling to business customers

• Check AICIS registration and reporting requirements for the chemicals you use or import
• Check council and planning rules for manufacturing in your chosen unit
• Therapeutic claims can bring in TGA rules, so check before you promote any product
• Product and public liability insurance, and workers compensation once you hire
• Keep batch records and stock traceability so you can handle a recall if needed
• Wholesale customers may pay late, so check payment terms

Startup costs are typically around $10,000 to $45,000, depending on the unit, equipment, ingredients, packaging and storage. These are estimates, so get quotes for your own setup before signing a lease.

Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many salons and retailers you supply, your order sizes and pricing, and whether you make private label products. Treat this as an estimate.

Check AICIS registration and reporting requirements for the chemicals you use or import, and council and planning rules for manufacturing in your unit. Also check TGA rules before making therapeutic claims, product and public liability insurance, and batch records for recalls.