Glass block trade supplier with a unit

Builders, bathroom and kitchen fitters, glaziers, architects and homeowners on larger projects.

You buy in bulk at better prices and sell at a mark-up, with trade accounts, delivery charges and accessory sales adding to margin.

• Stock control and ordering
• Trade sales and building relationships
• Safe handling of heavy, fragile goods

• Stock ties up cash and breakages cost money, so start with fast-selling sizes
• Check the unit's permitted use, business rates and lease terms
• Manual handling and any lifting equipment need proper training and safe procedures
• Insurance for stock, public liability and any delivery vehicle, plus employer's liability if you hire
• Structural or fire-rated applications may need building regulations approval, so give accurate product information

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £40,000, depending on the unit, the range of stock you buy and any delivery vehicle. Stock ties up cash and breakages cost money, so start with fast-selling sizes.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £5,000 to £25,000, depending on your stock range, local trade customers and delivery area. Revenue is not profit, so weigh it against rent, stock, breakages and wages.

Check the unit's permitted use, business rates and lease terms. Also check manual handling and lifting equipment training, insurance for stock, public liability, any delivery vehicle and employer's liability if you hire, and building regulations for structural or fire-rated uses.