Industrial supplies trade counter

Local engineering firms, fabricators, maintenance teams, workshops and tradespeople who want same-day supply.

You buy at trade prices and sell with a margin. Account customers on monthly terms can give regular repeat sales, and you can add delivery or special-order fees.

• Product knowledge of industrial tools
• Stock control and purchasing
• Managing customer accounts

• Check the lease terms, business rates and whether the unit's permitted use covers trade sales
• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus cover for stock and premises
• Tied-up cash in stock that does not sell, so start with fast-moving lines
• Employer's liability insurance if you hire staff
• Check rules on storing and selling hazardous items such as chemicals, gases and lubricants
• Late payment from account customers

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £10,000 to £50,000, depending on the unit, initial stock and insurance. Cash can get tied up in stock that does not sell, so start with fast-moving lines.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £5,000 to £25,000, depending on your stock range and how many local engineering firms, workshops and tradespeople become regular customers. The estimates assume about 35 hours a week or more.

Check the lease terms, business rates and whether the unit's permitted use covers trade sales. Also check rules on storing and selling hazardous items such as chemicals, gases and lubricants, and the insurance you need for stock and premises.