Online niche electrical supplies shop

Self-employed electricians, small contractors, installers, facilities teams and some well-informed DIY buyers.

The margin between your buying price and selling price on each order, plus delivery charges. Repeat trade accounts and bundles (for example a full consumer unit kit) lift the average order.

• Good product knowledge in your chosen niche
• Sales and customer service by phone and email
• Stock control and organisation
• Basic online shop management

• Check the rules on electrical product safety and marking (such as UKCA or CE) for everything you sell
• Check whether you need to register under the WEEE regulations for selling electrical equipment
• Public liability and product liability insurance, so ask a broker what covers resold electrical goods
• Tight margins against large wholesalers, so a clear niche and good service matter
• Returns, damaged deliveries and cash tied up in stock

Startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on how much stock you hold, your chosen niche and how you set up your online shop. Stock and returns can tie up cash, so plan for that.

Check the rules on electrical product safety and marking, such as UKCA or CE, for everything you sell. Also check whether you need to register under the WEEE regulations, and ask a broker about public liability and product liability insurance.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on your niche, range and customers. Margins can be tight against large wholesalers, and the idea assumes at least around 15 hours a week.