Car accessories shop on the high street

Local drivers, van owners, car enthusiasts and small garages or traders who want quick trade supplies.

Retail sales at a mark-up on stock, plus trade accounts for garages and optional paid fitting for items like bulbs and wipers.

• Product knowledge about cars and accessories
• Stock control and buying
• Face-to-face customer service

• Rent, business rates and a lease, so check terms carefully and look at any small business rates relief you may qualify for
• Public liability and stock insurance
• Product safety rules for items you sell and fit; check what applies
• Cash tied up in slow-moving stock
• Planning use class of the premises; check with your council

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £40,000, depending on the premises, fit-out and how much stock you buy. Rent, business rates and lease terms are worth checking carefully before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically around £4,000 to £20,000, depending on location, stock range and how much trade you win from local garages. These are estimates, not guarantees, and slow-moving stock can tie up your cash.

Check your lease terms, business rates and any small business rates relief, the planning use class of the premises with your council, and product safety rules for items you sell and fit. Also look at public liability and stock insurance.