Start an accessories wholesaler with a small unit

Retail chains and independent shops, repair businesses, online sellers, corporate gift buyers and other resellers.

You earn the margin between your volume buying price (after shipping, duty and storage) and your wholesale price. Better buying terms and repeat accounts improve margins.

• Sourcing and negotiating
• Cash flow and stock control
• Building trade customer accounts

• Importing: check customs, duty and VAT rules and whether you need an EORI number
• Product safety and marking requirements (UKCA or CE, depending on the product), plus checks on chargers and batteries
• Check your WEEE and battery producer obligations, which may apply to importers
• Counterfeit and trademark risks, so verify every supplier and avoid unlicensed branded goods
• Cash tied up in stock and slow-paying customers, so consider credit checks and clear payment terms
• Public liability, product liability and stock insurance, and business rates on commercial premises

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the volume of stock you buy, your unit and your range. Cash tied up in stock is a key thing to plan for.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £8,000 to £40,000, depending on your range, customer accounts and order sizes. Slow-paying customers can strain cash flow, so consider credit checks and clear payment terms.

Check customs, duty and VAT rules, and whether you need an EORI number. Also check product safety marking (UKCA or CE, depending on the product), WEEE and battery obligations, and verify every supplier to avoid counterfeit or unlicensed branded goods.