Local envelope supplier to printers and offices

Print shops, solicitors, accountants, estate agents, mailing houses, councils and larger offices that use envelopes regularly.

Margin on bulk orders, often with account customers on standing orders. Larger or custom runs bring higher order values.

• Sales and relationship building
• Negotiating with suppliers
• Stock control and delivery planning

• Cash flow, as bulk stock is paid for upfront while business customers may expect 30 day payment terms
• Check whether you need to register for VAT
• Storage and delivery costs, including van insurance for business use
• Public liability and goods in transit insurance are worth checking
• Check planning and lease rules if you use a unit or rent storage space

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on how much stock you buy, your storage and your delivery set-up. Bulk stock is paid for upfront, so check your cash flow carefully.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around £1,500 to £7,500, depending on the customers you win, their order sizes and how much repeat business you build. About 15 hours a week is the estimated minimum.

Check cash flow, as business customers may expect 30 day payment terms. Also check whether you need to register for VAT, van insurance for business use, public liability and goods in transit cover, and planning and lease rules for any unit or storage.