Local aluminium stockholder with trade counter

Local fabricators, engineering workshops, sign makers, boat and van builders, builders and tradespeople who need material quickly in small amounts.

You buy in bulk from mills or larger distributors and sell smaller quantities at a higher price per kilo or metre, with cutting and delivery as extra charges. Figures shown are sales, not profit.

• Knowledge of aluminium grades and sections
• Sales and building trade relationships
• Stock control and basic bookkeeping
• Safe handling of heavy materials and saws

• Stock ties up a lot of cash, so start with a small range of fast sellers
• Offering credit terms to trade customers carries a risk of late payment, so check customers before agreeing accounts
• Public liability, product liability, stock and employer's liability (once you hire) insurance
• Manual handling, saw guarding and lifting equipment need proper safety checks, so check HSE guidance
• If you ever buy scrap aluminium, check whether scrap metal dealer licensing applies
• Business rates, planning use class and lease terms on the unit

Startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the unit, racking, saw, stock range and whether you add a delivery van. Stock ties up a lot of cash, so it helps to start with a small range of fast sellers.

Monthly revenue is typically around £8,000 to £40,000, depending on your range, location and the trade customers you win. This is revenue, not profit, so stock, rent and running costs come out of it. Expect to work at least 35 hours a week.

Check your insurance needs, including public liability, product liability, stock and employer's liability once you hire. Look at HSE guidance on manual handling, saw guarding and lifting equipment, plus business rates, planning use class and lease terms. If you buy scrap aluminium, check whether scrap metal dealer licensing applies.