Local electronic parts trade supplier

Repair businesses, small electronics makers, installers, schools and colleges, plus walk-in hobbyists.

Mark-up on parts sold singly or in bulk, repeat orders from trade accounts and, where it suits, supply agreements with regular customers.

• Good technical product knowledge
• Buying and stock control
• Building trade relationships

• Rent, business rates and unit lease terms, check these before signing
• Cash tied up in slow-moving stock, start with a small range
• Product safety, UKCA/CE marking and WEEE obligations, check what applies to your products
• Public liability and stock insurance
• Competition from large distributors, so focus on speed and local service
• Employer's liability insurance if you take on staff

Startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £40,000, depending on the unit, the size of your opening stock range and your set-up. These are estimates, so check rent and lease terms before signing anything.

Monthly revenue is typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on your range, how many trade customers you win and your opening hours. These are estimates, and slow-moving stock can tie up cash.

Check rent, business rates and the unit lease terms before signing. Check product safety, UKCA/CE marking and WEEE obligations for what you sell. Look at public liability and stock insurance, and employer's liability insurance if you take on staff.