Online glassware supplier for cafes and bars

Cafes, bars, restaurants, pubs, small hotels, caterers and event hire companies that need regular replacements.

You sell by the case at a margin above your buying price. Repeat orders for breakages and new openings are the steady income, and bigger orders can carry a lower margin.

• Negotiating with suppliers
• Careful stock and order tracking
• Selling to businesses by phone or email

• Check whether you need to register as a sole trader or limited company, and when VAT registration applies
• Breakages in transit: use proper packaging and check your courier's cover for glass
• Public liability and product liability insurance, so check what a broker will cover
• Glass sold for use with food and drink may need to meet food contact material rules, so check with your supplier and Trading Standards
• Check if your landlord, mortgage lender or council allows storing stock at home

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £1,500 to £7,000, depending on how much stock you buy, your website and packaging. Check whether your landlord, mortgage lender or council allows you to store stock at home.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around £800 to £4,000, depending on your range, pricing and how many hospitality customers you win. Breakages in transit can cut into returns, so use proper packaging.

Check whether you need to register as a sole trader or limited company, and when VAT registration applies. Check your courier's cover for glass, and ask your supplier and Trading Standards about food contact material rules.