Discount goods market stall

Local market shoppers looking for everyday items at low prices, plus seasonal buyers.

You buy in bulk from wholesalers or job-lot sellers and sell at a margin. Stall fees are lower than shop rent, so you can test products before committing more money.

• Friendly, confident selling
• Spotting good-value stock
• Handling cash and card payments
• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather

• Street trading rules: check with your council whether you need a licence or permit for your pitch
• Public liability insurance, which many markets require
• Product safety and labelling rules for items such as toys and electricals, check Trading Standards guidance
• Avoid counterfeit or unsafe goods, and buy from suppliers who can give you invoices
• Bad weather and quiet days can hit takings, and you will need a van or space to store stock
• Register as a sole trader with HMRC and keep records of all sales

Startup costs for a discount goods market stall are typically around £500 to £4,000, depending on the stock you buy, your stall equipment and how you transport and store goods. Treat this as an estimate and cost your own setup.

Monthly revenue is typically around £600 to £3,000, depending on your pitch, the stock you choose, the weather and how many days you trade. That is revenue before stock and pitch costs, so work out your margins.

Check with your council whether you need a licence or permit for your pitch. Also check whether the market requires public liability insurance, what product safety and labelling rules apply through Trading Standards, and register as a sole trader with HMRC.