Fruit wholesaler running from a small unit
Rent a small unit with cold storage, buy fruit in bulk and supply shops, market traders and caterers.
- £10k-50k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in the UK, not guarantees.
Official data
4,441 UK companies in this field, 33% registered in the last 2 years
SIC 46310 “Wholesale of fruit and vegetables”. Source: Companies House, November 2026.
What it is
You run a small trade unit with chilled storage where you hold stock bought in bulk from growers, importers or markets. Customers collect or you deliver, and you can cover a wider range and bigger orders.
Your first three steps
- Build a list of likely trade customers and ask what volumes and fruit types they need each week
- Set up accounts with a few growers, importers or wholesale markets and compare prices
- Price up a small unit, cold room and equipment, and write a simple cash flow forecast before signing a lease
Who pays
Greengrocers, market stallholders, restaurants, caterers, juice bars and small food processors that need steady supplies at trade prices.
How it makes money
You earn a margin on bulk purchases sold in smaller lots. Larger standing orders and a wider range of fruit help raise turnover, but rent and storage costs need covering.
Skills that help
- Stock control and ordering
- Supplier negotiation
- Sales and building trade relationships
- Managing cash flow
Watch out for
- Register your premises as a food business with your local council and check hygiene requirements
- Check planning and lease terms allow food storage and deliveries from the unit
- Cold storage running costs and equipment failure can wipe out stock, so check insurance cover
- Employer's liability insurance if you hire help
- Prices change with season and supply, so margins can swing
🔒 Full research report for UK
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start a fruit wholesale business from a unit?
Startup costs are typically around £10,000 to £50,000, depending on your unit, cold storage and the stock you buy. These are estimates, so get real quotes for rent, equipment and supplies before committing.
How much can a small fruit wholesaler earn?
Monthly revenue is typically around £8,000 to £40,000, depending on your customers, order sizes and range. The estimate assumes at least around 35 hours a week. Prices change with season and supply, so margins can swing.
What rules should I check before renting a unit?
Check that you need to register your premises as a food business with your local council, and check hygiene requirements. Check that planning and lease terms allow food storage and deliveries. Also check insurance for cold storage failure and employer's liability if you hire help.
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