Charcuterie online and market stall business

Shoppers at farmers' markets and food festivals, plus online customers buying gifts, party boxes and hampers.

Retail margin on individual products and curated boxes, with extra income from gift orders and corporate hampers.

• Customer service and chatting to shoppers
• Product knowledge and taste
• Basic online selling and photography
• Organising stock and orders

• Register your food business with your local council at least 28 days before trading, and check what approvals apply if you make the meat yourself
• Chilled storage and delivery need careful temperature control, so check packaging and courier options
• Public liability and product liability insurance
• Labelling, allergen and traceability rules for products you sell
• Market pitch fees and quiet winter months can make income uneven

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £1,500 to £8,000, depending on your stall kit, chilled storage, packaging, website, insurance and first stock. Renting an approved kitchen or buying from a producer affects the total.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £500 to £3,000, depending on how many markets you attend and your online sales. Pitch fees and quiet winter months can make income uneven.

Check that you register your food business with your local council at least 28 days before trading, and what approvals apply if you make the meat yourself. Also check chilled storage and delivery, labelling and allergen rules, and insurance.