Furniture hardware trade counter

Cabinet makers, joiners, kitchen and wardrobe installers, small furniture retailers and renovation businesses.

Markup on goods sold over the counter and on regular trade accounts, plus delivery runs or bulk orders for repeat customers.

• Product knowledge of furniture fittings
• Stock control and ordering
• Building relationships with trade customers

• Check zoning and council approval for the premises and any signage
• Public liability, product liability and contents insurance are worth checking
• Trade accounts can mean late payment, so check credit terms and chase early
• A large stock range ties up cash, so build it gradually based on sales
• Workers compensation insurance is needed once you hire staff, so check your state scheme
• Check import rules and product standards if you bring in goods directly

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $30,000 to $120,000, depending on your premises, fit-out and the size of your stock range. Building the range gradually based on sales can help protect cash.

Check zoning and council approval for the premises and any signage. Also check insurance such as public liability, product liability and contents, trade account credit terms, workers compensation once you hire, and import rules if you bring in goods.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your location, range and trade customers. Plan for about 35 hours a week or more, and watch for late payment on trade accounts.