Commission-only sales agent for small makers

The manufacturers or suppliers you represent pay your commission. Shops, cafes, gift retailers and trade buyers place the orders.

A percentage commission on sales, agreed in a written agency contract. Some agents also negotiate a small retainer or expenses contribution, though many start on commission only.

• Confident selling and negotiating
• Building long-term relationships with buyers
• Self-discipline and organised follow-up
• Good product knowledge in your chosen niche

• UK commercial agents are covered by the Commercial Agents Regulations 1993, so check what this means for your contract, notice and any end-of-agreement payment
• Commission can be slow to start and payment may follow customers paying the supplier, so keep savings for the first months
• Check whether the supplier's products need any approvals or labelling before you sell them
• Public liability or professional indemnity insurance may be worth considering, check with a broker
• Register as a sole trader with HMRC and keep records of mileage and expenses

Startup costs are typically around £300 to £2,000, depending on your equipment, travel and any insurance you choose. These are estimates, so keep savings aside because commission can be slow to start.

Monthly revenue is typically around £0 to £4,000, depending on the suppliers you represent, the orders you win and your commission terms. The estimate starts from around 10 hours a week.

Check what the Commercial Agents Regulations 1993 mean for your contract, notice and any end-of-agreement payment. Also check whether products need approvals or labelling, whether to take out insurance, and registering as a sole trader with HMRC.