Start a local food and drink supplier with a small warehouse

Restaurants, cafes, caterers, bakeries, pubs, school and workplace canteens, and event companies in your area.

You buy in bulk and sell at a markup, often with standing weekly orders. Larger accounts and tight delivery routes improve your margins.

• Selling and account management
• Stock control and ordering
• Food handling and safe storage
• Route planning and driving

• Food premises permit or licence requirements, which vary by province and municipality; check with your public health unit
• CFIA licensing may apply if you import food or sell across provincial borders
• Commercial general liability, product liability, stock and vehicle insurance
• Spoilage and cash tied up in stock; start with fast-moving items
• Customers may pay on 30-day terms, so plan for cash flow gaps
• WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire drivers or warehouse staff; check your province's rules
• Winter driving and delivery delays

Estimated startup costs are typically around $60,000 to $150,000, depending on your unit, shelving, delivery vehicle, equipment and opening stock. Cash can be tied up in stock, so starting with fast-moving items may help.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $20,000 to $90,000, depending on your range and how many customers you serve. Hours start at around 35 per week. Customers may pay on 30-day terms, so plan for cash flow gaps.

Check food premises permit or licence requirements with your public health unit, as they vary by province and municipality. Check whether CFIA licensing applies if you import food or sell across provincial borders. Also check insurance and WCB/WSIB coverage when you hire.