Basket supplier with a unit and trade webshop

Florists, hamper companies, gift retailers, garden centres, hotels, event companies and other wholesalers or online sellers.

You sell cases and pallets at trade prices. Buying direct from overseas manufacturers in larger quantities gives better margins, and a wide range encourages repeat orders.

• Sourcing and negotiating with suppliers
• Stock control and warehousing
• Business-to-business selling
• Basic website and order management

• Import duty, VAT on imports, customs paperwork and EORI number, so check GOV.UK or ask a freight agent
• Plant health or import rules for natural materials like willow, so check with suppliers and the authorities
• Long lead times and bulk buying tie up cash, so start with a modest first order
• Business rates, lease terms and planning use of the unit, so check with the landlord and council
• Public liability, product liability and stock insurance, plus employer's liability if you hire
• Seasonal peaks around Christmas, Easter and Mother's Day can strain stock and cash flow

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £8,000 to £30,000, depending on the range of stock you hold and your unit. Bulk buying and long lead times tie up cash, so consider a modest first order.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £5,000 to £25,000, depending on your trade customers and the season. Peaks around Christmas, Easter and Mother's Day can strain stock and cash flow, so plan ahead.

Check import duty, VAT on imports, customs paperwork and whether you need an EORI number, using GOV.UK or a freight agent. Natural materials like willow may have plant health or import rules, so check with suppliers and the authorities.