Online disposable tableware shop for cafes and events

Small cafes, food trucks, caterers, market stallholders, school and club fundraisers, and people hosting large events.

You buy in bulk at wholesale prices and sell in cartons or packs at a margin. Repeat orders from cafes and caterers, plus custom-printed cups or bags if you add them, make up the regular income.

• Comparing supplier prices
• Basic website and online shop setup
• Order handling and customer service

• Check ABN and GST registration requirements as your turnover grows
• Environmental claims such as compostable or biodegradable must be accurate, check Australian Consumer Law and ACCC guidance
• Some states and territories have banned or are phasing out certain single-use plastics, check your state rules before stocking items
• Bulky items mean freight costs can erase margin, work out delivery pricing carefully
• Check product liability insurance and whether home storage is allowed under your council rules

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on whether you drop-ship from a wholesaler or hold a small amount of stock at home. Check delivery pricing carefully, as bulky items can erase margin.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on your product range, pricing and how many cafes, caterers and event hosts you reach. These are estimates, not guarantees.

Check ABN and GST registration as turnover grows, and make sure any compostable or biodegradable claims are accurate under Australian Consumer Law. Also check your state's rules on single-use plastics before stocking items.