Indian sweets shop with counter and kitchen

Local families buying everyday treats and gifts, plus caterers, event hosts, temples and community groups placing larger orders.

Walk-in sales by weight or box, festival gift boxes and bulk event orders. Trade is often strongest around major festivals and wedding seasons.

• Making a range of Indian sweets and snacks at volume
• Managing stock, costs and food safety
• Customer service and local marketing

• Food business registration with the council, and a food hygiene rating inspection
• Planning use class and any extraction or ventilation requirements, check with the council
• Allergen labelling and a documented food safety system (HACCP-based)
• Employer's liability insurance once you hire, plus public liability
• Lease terms, business rates and high fixed costs if sales are slow in quieter months

Startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the unit, kitchen fit-out, display counter, equipment and initial stock. These are estimates, so get quotes for the fit-out and lease terms first.

Monthly revenue is typically around £5,000 to £25,000, depending on location, range, festival trade and bulk orders. Fixed costs are high, so check your numbers for quieter months.

Check food business registration with the council and expect a food hygiene rating inspection. Check the planning use class, extraction or ventilation needs, allergen labelling, a documented food safety system, insurance, lease terms and business rates.