Local fire alarm trade counter

Local installers, electricians, maintenance firms, facilities managers and housing associations who need parts quickly.

You sell stocked items at a margin above trade cost. Speed, availability and advice help you win repeat accounts.

• Product knowledge across several brands
• Stock control and ordering
• Building trade relationships
• Managing trade accounts and credit

• Stock ties up cash, so start with fast-moving items and check what you can return
• Check that products meet the relevant standards (such as BS EN 54) and carry the right UK marking
• Business insurance covering stock, public liability and product liability, and employer's liability if you hire
• Check planning use class, business rates and lease terms for any unit
• Late payment from trade accounts, so check credit before offering terms
• Do not give system design advice unless you are properly qualified

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on your unit, stock range and fit-out. Stock ties up cash, so consider starting with fast-moving items and check what you can return to suppliers.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £10,000 to £50,000, depending on your range, location and the trade accounts you build. Late payment from trade accounts is a risk, so check credit before offering terms.

Check the planning use class, business rates and lease terms for any unit. Check that products meet relevant standards (such as BS EN 54) and carry the right UK marking, and that insurance covers stock, public liability and product liability.