American grocery shop on the high street

Local shoppers, students, families, American expats and people who like trying imported brands.

Mark-up on each item sold, with higher margins on snacks and sweets, plus gift bundles and online orders.

• Buying and stock control
• Customer service
• Basic bookkeeping and pricing

• Food business registration with your local council and possible inspections
• Labelling and allergen rules for imported products, check with Trading Standards
• Some American products may not meet UK rules, so check each one before stocking it
• Lease terms, business rates and any planning permission or change of use needed for the premises
• Public liability insurance, stock insurance and employer's liability insurance if you hire staff
• Cash tied up in stock and products reaching their best before date

Startup costs are typically around £10,000 to £40,000, depending on your premises, fit-out and opening stock. Cash can be tied up in stock, and products reaching their best before date are a risk to plan for.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £4,000 to £20,000, depending on location, range and footfall. These are revenue estimates, not profit, so allow for stock, rent, business rates and staff if you hire any.

Check food business registration with your local council and possible inspections. Check labelling and allergen rules with Trading Standards, and whether each product meets UK rules. Also check lease terms, business rates, planning or change of use, and your insurance needs.