Local electrical trade counter and delivery

Local electricians, builders, maintenance firms, landlords and small retailers who need parts quickly at trade prices.

Margin on goods bought from manufacturers and larger distributors, helped by trade accounts, volume deals and fast availability. Delivery or out-of-hours collection can add value.

• Product knowledge across electrical ranges
• Stock control and buying
• Credit control and customer service
• Managing a small team

• Stock is a large upfront cost and slow-moving lines tie up cash, start with a tight range
• Check business rates, planning use class and lease terms for any unit
• Public liability, product liability, buildings and contents, and employer's liability insurance once you hire
• Product safety marking and WEEE or battery obligations, check what applies to what you sell
• Trade credit and late payers can strain cash flow, consider credit checks and credit insurance
• Competition from big national wholesalers on price, so focus on service and local speed

Startup costs are typically around £20,000 to £80,000, depending on your unit, how much stock you buy, a delivery van and fit-out. Stock is a large upfront cost, so these estimates suit a tight starting range of core lines.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £10,000 to £50,000, depending on your range, location and the number of local trade accounts. This is revenue, not profit, and big national wholesalers compete on price, so service and speed matter.

Check business rates, planning use class and lease terms for any unit, and which product safety marking and WEEE or battery obligations apply to what you sell. Also check your insurance, including employer's liability once you hire, and credit control for trade customers.