Food machinery reseller

Cafes, restaurants, bakeries, butchers, takeaways and small food producers who need to equip or upgrade their kitchens.

A margin on each machine sold, or commission from the manufacturer or dealer you represent. Accessories and spare parts add smaller repeat sales.

• Sales and negotiation
• Understanding how food businesses work
• Comfortable with technical product details
• Organised with quotes and deliveries

• Check product liability insurance, as you are responsible for what you sell
• Check that machines meet UK safety and food contact material requirements, including CE or UKCA marking where relevant
• Used machines need honest descriptions and clear terms on warranties
• Cash flow risk if you buy stock before you have a buyer
• Check with your landlord, mortgage lender or council if you plan to store machines at home

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £500 to £5,000, depending on whether you act as an agent or buy stock, and on insurance and marketing. Buying stock before you have a buyer adds cash flow risk.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on the machines you sell, your pricing and how many food businesses you win as customers. The estimated minimum is around 15 hours a week.

Check product liability insurance, and that machines meet UK safety and food contact material requirements, including CE or UKCA marking where relevant. Describe used machines honestly with clear warranty terms, and check permission if you store machines at home.