Appliance parts trade counter

Local appliance repairers, landlords, letting agents and households doing their own repairs.

Mark-up on parts, with repeat trade customers giving steady orders. Many also sell online or by phone to widen their reach.

• Good knowledge of appliance parts and brands
• Stock control and ordering
• Building relationships with trade customers

• Stock ties up cash, so start with fast-moving parts and review often
• Check business rates, lease terms and whether the premises are allowed for retail or trade use
• Public liability and stock or contents insurance are worth checking
• Competition from big online sellers, so local speed and advice matter
• Check the rules on selling electrical parts and any producer responsibility duties

Startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on the premises and how much stock you hold. Starting with fast-moving parts and reviewing often helps avoid cash being tied up in slow stock.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on how many local repairers you supply and your walk-in trade. The estimate starts from about 30 hours a week of work.

Check business rates, lease terms and whether the premises are allowed for retail or trade use. Also check public liability and stock insurance, and the rules on selling electrical parts, including any producer responsibility duties.