Mobile paint and finishes supplier to the trades

Self-employed decorators, joiners, small building firms and property maintenance companies.

You buy at trade or wholesale prices and sell at a margin, often with a delivery charge or minimum order. Regular repeat customers matter most.

• Knowing paints, primers and finishes
• Reliable and organised
• Building trade relationships

• Paints and solvents can be flammable, so check rules on safe storage and carrying them in a van
• Check whether you need extra rules for carrying hazardous goods, and the labelling and safety data sheet requirements
• Public liability and goods in transit insurance, plus motor insurance that covers business use
• Cash flow, as trade customers often expect credit while you pay suppliers quickly
• Check rules on VOC limits for decorative paints and any restrictions on what you can sell

Startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on your van, the amount of stock you buy and any storage you need. These are estimates, so check wholesaler terms and insurance costs before you buy.

Monthly revenue is typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on your trade customer base and range. Trade customers often expect credit while you pay suppliers quickly, so watch cash flow. Revenue is not the same as profit.

Check rules on safe storage and carrying flammable paints and solvents, any extra rules for hazardous goods, and labelling and safety data sheet requirements. Also check VOC limits for decorative paints and your goods in transit and motor insurance.