Wholesale clothing for independent shops

Independent boutiques, market stall holders, gift shops and online resellers who want a steady supply of stock.

You sell stock in cases or bundles at a margin above your buying price. Regular trade customers reorder each season.

• Spotting what sells
• Negotiating with suppliers
• Stock control and bookkeeping

• Unsold stock ties up cash, so start with small orders
• If importing, check customs duties, VAT and product labelling and safety rules, especially for children's clothing
• Check for fakes or branded goods that may infringe trademarks
• Insurance for stock and premises, plus public liability
• Check the lease terms and business rates on any unit

Startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on how much stock you buy and the unit or storage space you use. Unsold stock ties up cash, so it makes sense to start with small orders.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on your stock, your customers and the hours you put in. These are revenue estimates rather than profit, so allow for stock, unit and insurance costs.

If importing, check customs duties, VAT, product labelling and safety rules, especially for children's clothing. Also check for fakes or branded goods that may infringe trademarks, arrange insurance, and read the lease terms and business rates on any unit.