Start an online disposable tableware shop

Small cafes, street food traders, caterers, event organisers and community groups that need regular supplies.

The margin between your bulk buying price and your selling price, with repeat orders and bigger baskets from regular business customers.

• Comparing supplier prices
• Basic online selling
• Stock and order tracking
• Customer service

• Food-contact packaging must meet UK rules, so ask suppliers for compliance information
• Check the rules on single-use plastic items, as some are restricted in parts of the UK
• Bulky, low-value stock makes delivery costs and storage space a real squeeze on margins
• Register as a sole trader or limited company and check when VAT registration applies

Startup costs are typically around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on how much stock you buy and whether suppliers ship for you. These are estimates, so build your own budget from supplier quotes before you commit.

Check that food-contact packaging meets UK rules by asking suppliers for compliance information. Also check the rules on single-use plastic items, as some are restricted in parts of the UK, and when VAT registration applies to you.

Monthly revenue is typically around £500 to £4,000, depending on your stock range, pricing and customers. That is revenue, not profit. Bulky, low-value stock means delivery and storage costs can squeeze margins, so check these.