Handmade wooden furniture showroom

Households furnishing a home, people who want solid wood rather than flat-pack, and customers after a particular size or finish.

You buy from makers at trade prices and sell at retail, or take a commission on made-to-order pieces. Delivery and finishing options can add extra income.

• Selling and advising customers
• Knowing wood, joinery and finishes
• Building relationships with makers
• Organising orders and deliveries

• Describe where and how pieces are made honestly. Do not call furniture Amish-made unless it really is, and check Trading Standards guidance on descriptions
• Check fire safety rules if you sell any upholstered items, such as cushioned chairs or beds
• Commercial lease terms, business rates and shop insurance, including public liability and stock cover
• Customer deposits on made-to-order items: check how you will protect them if a maker is late or stops trading
• If you import timber or furniture, check the current import and timber rules

Startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the lease, the shop fit-out and how many display pieces you buy. Many pieces are made to order, so you hold display pieces rather than lots of stock.

Describe where and how pieces are made honestly, and do not call furniture Amish-made unless it really is. Check Trading Standards guidance, fire safety rules for upholstered items, lease terms, business rates, insurance, and how you will protect customer deposits.

Monthly revenue is typically around £5,000 to £25,000, depending on your location, range, prices and how many made-to-order pieces you sell. Estimates suggest around 35 hours a week, so plan for full-time opening.