Stocked fibre optic trade supplier

Telecoms contractors, network installers, electrical firms, facilities teams and small ISPs in your region.

Margin on stocked products, with trade accounts for regular customers. Extras such as cutting cable to length, making up patch leads and selling tool kits can raise the margin.

• Sales and account management
• Technical product knowledge
• Stock control and purchasing
• Managing cash flow and supplier credit

• Stock ties up cash, so start with fast-moving lines and check supplier credit terms
• Check the lease, business rates, planning use class and insurance for the unit before committing
• Check which standards or certifications apply to the products you sell, including cable fire ratings for use in buildings
• You will need public liability and product liability cover, plus stock and contents insurance; employer's liability insurance once you hire
• Check the rules on importing goods yourself, including customs duties and product marking

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the unit, the range of stock you hold and your supplier credit terms. Stock ties up cash, so consider starting with fast-moving lines.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £10,000 to £50,000, depending on your stock range, your region and the installers you win as accounts. That is revenue, not profit. Estimates start from around 30 hours a week.

Check the lease, business rates, planning use class and insurance for the unit. Check which standards or certifications apply to your products, including cable fire ratings, plus public and product liability cover and the rules on importing goods.