Start an online incense shop

Individual customers who enjoy incense for relaxation, meditation, yoga or home fragrance, plus people buying gifts.

You sell at a retail price above your buying cost, with extra income from bundles, gift sets and burners. Repeat orders from regular customers matter most.

• Finding and judging good suppliers
• Product photos and descriptions
• Order packing and customer service

• Register as a sole trader or company and check your product safety and labelling duties with Trading Standards
• Check whether scented products you sell need hazard labelling under UK rules
• If importing, check customs duty, import VAT and any limits on protected natural materials such as some woods
• Consumer rights for online sales, including returns and cancellation
• Storing stock at home: check your home insurance, any tenancy or mortgage terms, and fire safety
• Consider product liability insurance

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £500 to £2,500, depending on how much initial stock you buy, your website or marketplace set-up, packaging and any insurance.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around £500 to £2,500, depending on your product range, prices and how many orders you get. The estimates assume at least about 8 hours a week.

Check your product safety and labelling duties with Trading Standards, and whether scented products need hazard labelling. If importing, check customs duty, import VAT and limits on protected natural materials. Also check consumer rights for online sales and your insurance.