Local wire and cable supply counter

Local electrical contractors, renovators, maintenance departments and small industrial buyers who need material the same day.

Markup per metre or foot, plus charges for delivery, special orders and sometimes cable accessories. Trade accounts with regular buyers give steady income.

• Knowledge of electrical wire and cable types
• Inventory and cash flow management
• Customer service and relationship building with trades

• Stock ties up a lot of cash and copper prices can swing, so start with fast-moving items
• Check that products carry the certification required in your province (for example CSA or equivalent)
• Offering credit to contractors carries a risk of late payment, so set limits
• Commercial general liability, property and stock insurance, and WCB/WSIB once you hire
• Safe handling of heavy reels, and municipal zoning and licensing for your unit

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on your unit, reel stock and equipment. Stock ties up a lot of cash and copper prices can swing, so starting with fast-moving items is worth considering.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $75,000, depending on your stock range, location and how many local trades you serve. The estimates assume full-time hours, at least about 40 a week.

Check that products carry the certification required in your province, such as CSA or equivalent. Also check municipal zoning and licensing for your unit, insurance including liability, property and stock cover, WCB or WSIB when hiring, and safe handling of heavy reels.