Plasterboard and plaster trade counter

Plasterers, builders, dry-lining contractors, shopfitters and keen DIY renovators who want same-day availability.

You buy in bulk and sell with a margin on materials. You may add delivery charges, and can also sell related items such as adhesives, tools and insulation.

• Stock control and buying
• Product knowledge across boards, plasters and fixings
• Customer service and account management
• Managing staff or drivers as you grow

• Rent, business rates and the cost of holding stock, so work out your break-even before signing a lease
• Check planning and permitted use of the unit with your local council, and the lease terms for goods access
• Forklift or lifting equipment needs trained operators, so check the training and safety rules
• Public liability, stock and buildings or contents insurance, plus employer's liability once you hire
• Damp, damaged or slow-moving stock can eat into profit
• Check goods vehicle operator licence and driver hours rules if you run heavier delivery vehicles
• Competition from large national merchants, so you need a clear edge such as speed, stock range or service

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £25,000 to £100,000, depending on rent, the unit, how much stock you hold and any vehicles. Work out your break-even before signing a lease, as rent, business rates and stock all add up.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on your stock range, location and customer base. Damp, damaged or slow-moving stock can eat into profit, and national merchants will be competitors.

Check planning and permitted use of the unit with your local council, and the lease terms for goods access. Also check the training and safety rules for forklift or lifting equipment, and goods vehicle operator licence rules for heavier vehicles.